‘I’m Not Afraid’ is the latest single from roots rock and folk artist Adrian Sutherland, from Attawapiskat on James Bay. Sutherland is one of the only professional musicians to live in a remote First Nation area, and as such, he brings the power of his music to important themes of reconciliation, drawing inspiration from the land and his Cree language and culture.
This new song is a brilliant collaboration with the youth of the Kashechewan First Nation. Over the course of three visits, Sutherland wrote ‘I’m Not Afraid’ with local teenagers as part of their ‘Choose Life’ programme. The end result, complete with stirring gang vocals, delivers a positive and hopeful message. Sutherland’s vocal, over insistent guitar and upbeat rhythms, follows an uplifting and memorable melody.
Sutherland’s first book, ‘The Work of Our Hands: A Cree Meditation on the Real World’, has just been released by Penguin Random House Canada, providing insights into his life in the Far North and reflections on Cree culture and experiences. We’re posting the video to coincide with the official launch event on 15th January 2026 at Another Story Bookshop in Toronto.
Sutherland is an acclaimed writer and performer, who has earned Ontario Folk Music Award and JUNO Award nominations as well as winning ‘Best Americana Album’ from the 2025 World Entertainment Awards for sophomore album “Precious Diamonds”. He combines absorbing roots rock with important lyrical messages – check out his music, starting here with ‘I’m Not Afraid’.
KASHECHEWAN YOUTH:
Albert Mattinas
Anson Hughie
Coen Wesley
Deacon Lazarus
Jaime Williams
Jazmin Stephen
Khayden Koosees
Leondre Lazarus
Raymos Nakogee
CHOOSE LIFE PROGRAM:
Theresa Stephen – Choose Life Coordinator
Kashechewan Health Services – Project Funding
