Several artisans and musical artists in Quebec have been rewarded. Many indigenous talents experienced their first nomination at the industry gala, at the first gala as well as at the grand ADISQ gala, which were held in Montreal. During the first gala, which is held a few days before the big gala, 23 trophies were awarded. Transdisciplinary artist, Soleil Launière, was nominated for Indigenous Artist of the Year as well as Show of the Year in Indigenous, Bilingual and Other Languages. She receives this recognition by keeping both feet on the ground: “I am really well balanced, grounded. Then the family always brings us back to the essential and to humility. I’m really good about everything that’s going on.” Soleil was the first indigenous artist to win the Francouvertes during the 28th edition, in 2024, a competition which highlights new singer-songwriters. The Masteuiatsh artist ultimately did not bring home a Félix award, but she delivered a vibrant performance during the Grand Gala. Singer-songwriter Sakay Ottawa received his very first nomination, in the category: Best Indigenous Language Album of the Year. Despite his twenty-year career in music, this great first still had its effect: “There is a certain frenzy to be here,” he admitted. This is the kind of good news that Sakay Ottawa shared with his family: “I shared it with my little family, my wife, my children, my parents, my sisters, my brother and so on…Let’s say we celebrated a little bit. » Moreover, his entire family drove four hours from the community of Manawan to experience the event with him. Learn more: For National Indigenous Peoples Day, a stamp commemorating Elisapie Spotify does its part to highlight indigenous talents Finally, the Felix in the category of best album of the year in an indigenous language was given to the group Qimutjuit, who were also experiencing their very first nomination. This victory surprised the group: “I think I’m still shaking!” “, said singer Charlie Iqaluk. The group, made up of Charlie, Eric Atagotaaluk, Paulosie Kasudluak, and Jobie Weetaluktuk, has been playing together for 35 years. They come from the small community of Inukjuak, in Nunavik, which has fewer than 2,000 inhabitants. They flew six hours to be present at the first ADISQ gala. Their self-titled debut album includes songs in Inuktitut that they wrote many years ago: “We finally had the chance to record them recently, they were finally released after 20 years.” Their retro sound is inspired by Inuit artists they loved in the 60s and 70s, like singer Charlie Adams. In a funny tone, the band adds this about their sound: “There’s a little bit of folk and a little bit of pop in a few places. » The four men have never been able to make a living solely from their art, which is why they have not been able to record an album until now. Charlie, the singer, had a demanding job: “In the past, I worked in the mining sector. I worked three weeks, then I had two weeks off. For 17 years. Today I finally finished my work and I have the chance to play with them more often. » Their Nunavik fans expressed all their enthusiasm at a victory as unexpected as the nomination. The group regularly performs at community events: they are the local musicians! Their victory had a snowball effect on the networks. Their fans have shown them a lot of love. Recognition continues for Inuk multidisciplinary artist Elisapie — who is having a successful year — with four awards, including Indigenous Artist of the Year. Continue Reading
Indigenous artists: first nominations at the ADISQ Gala
