Getting a first spin here on Americana UK, and out everywhere tomorrow, ‘My Rebel Spirit‘ is a powerfully rocking new single from the second solo album ‘Precious Diamonds‘ recorded by Adrian Sutherland. Adrian Sutherland resides in Attawapiskat, Ontario on the coast of James Bay and is one of the only professional musicians still residing in his isolated First Nation, Adrian’s music melds rock, roots, folk and blues and couples these with meaningful messages – drawing inspiration from his northern life, his traditional lands, and his and his Cree culture. Before starting along his solo musical path Adrian Sutherland released three albums as the frontman and founder of all-Cree rockers Midnight Shine.
Speaking of ‘My Rebel Spirit‘ Adrian Sutherland told Americana UK that: “The idea for the song ‘My Rebel Spirit’ came from a place of feeling like an outsider, or a loner, which is how I’ve felt at different times in my life. I’ve come to realize over the years that being an outsider is not such a bad thing. Choosing to be myself – even if it means not being part of the ‘hip crowd’ – is a good thing. The song’s main message is that not everyone is going to accept you for who you are, so don’t let it get you down. Stay true to yourself, and you’ll stay on the right path.
It was especially cool to have a legend like Mickey Raphael lay down some edgy harmonica sounds on ‘My Rebel Spirit’, and also two other tracks on the album. He’s an amazing musician, and a nice guy, too. I’m grateful that he brought his talents to my album, and I’m really looking forward to sharing these songs.”
As well as his long involvement in music Adrian is also writing a book for Penguin Random House Canada about being born and raised in Attawapiskat. He cares deeply about many causes, with first-hand perspective on issues like contaminated water, food insecurity, housing shortages, addictions, and the need for mental health resources in the North – particularly for youth.
