First Tracks is part of APTN’s commitment to share the stories of our people and create original programming by and for Aboriginal Peoples.

Each year, APTN puts out an open call to all up-and-coming Canadian Aboriginal musicians and groups, encouraging them to apply to have a music video produced for an original song featured on a current or soon-to-be-released CD. From an overwhelming number of submissions, a select few are chosen and provided with up to $20,000 to produce a music video. This contest is open to any genre of music in English, French or any Aboriginal language.

Click on the pictures to see the videos and learn more about these talented performers.

The music of Lucie Idlout is inspired by much more than the Nunavut surroundings of her youth. This vibrant Inuk singer/songwriter has obvious ties to northern culture and the struggles that come with its unique geography, but her passion as an artist stretches far beyond the tree line. Her songs touch on experiences relevant to people everywhere, often with powerful, emotional themes. The strength of her voice and the power of her words cut through the surface and touch the spirit.

Hailing originally from Calgary, Alberta, the multi-talented, Juno nominated Kinnie Starr pushes artistic boundaries by ignoring them. Her signature speak-sing rhythm and smooth, seductive voice have been compared to other artists, but Kinnie has an original sound that’s impossible to categorize. This mixed-blood Mohawk uses her degree in women’s studies, her love of hip hop and street art, and her untrained intuitive talent as a pulse in all her music. An independent spirit, Kinnie has worked internationally with major labels as well as smaller labels to continue making albums she is proud of. Set to release her fifth album through Last Gang Labels (Metric, Death Cab For Cutie) in spring 2010, Kinnie Starr has yet to hit her full stride as an artist and continues to break her own limits.

Digging Roots is an innovative and dynamic young group of indigenous artists who bring a message of empowerment to their unique brand of funky Aboriginal music fuelled by a sexy, soulful blend of reggae and blues. At the centre of Digging Roots is the chemistry and songwriting of ShoShona Kish and Raven Kanatakta. Their synergy creates what they call Odeimin Music or heartbeat music which draws inspiration from the land and presents the history of indigenous people in a stirring and uplifting way.

Métis artist Janet Panic has built a reputation as one of Canada's premier songwriters over the past ten years. Her music connects with people from all walks of life, telling stories that range from the passionate to the humourous, all backed with a raw, stripped-down, honest sound. Her captivating solo performances have won her a dedicated fan base worldwide. Janet’s powerful musical presence creates a strong bond between herself and her audience, as her songs move seamlessly from haunting ballads to upbeat toe-tappers.

Sadie is a young Aboriginal hip-hop emcee based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, who has been performing since the age of 14. A former member of the award-winning Christian hip-hop group The Lil Disciples, this 19-year-old rapper/songwriter has recently embarked on her own musical path, determined to explore and find her individual voice. The daughter of award-winning Christian rap artist Fresh IE, it’s abundantly evident that exceptional musical talent and strong spirituality run in her family.

A Métis singer/songwriter/composer based in Victoria, British Columbia, Ry Moran has become a regular fixture on commercial, campus and community radio since the release of his debut album in 2007. His music, featuring stellar songwriting and incredible instrumentation, delves deep into Métis history, conflict and cultural rebirth. In addition to his musical career, Ry is also an entrepreneur and business owner, speaker, event planner, on-air personality and aboriginal language advocate that has been recognized as a National Aboriginal Youth Role Model.

Melisa Pash has been making music since she was four years old. The sound of this Cree singer/songwriter may seem modern, but its roots are thousands of years old. An accomplished musician adept at the guitar, piano and cello, Melisa’s contemporary pop-rock sound contains an element of traditional drumming. She tries to use her music to bridge the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, and is currently preparing a protégé program that helps other Cree artists trying to start their music careers.

An accomplished actor and visual artist, George Leach's first choice for self-expression is music. This singer/songwriter performs his original compositions with his own distinctive and unpredictable style, adding a unique Aboriginal flavor to high-energy classic rock and blues sounds. The gritty electric blues and original rock ballads of this Sta'atl'imx from Lillooet, British Columbia, are truly spellbinding. He pours his heart and soul into every song he performs, losing himself in the emotions of the lyrics and melodies.