Indigenous peoples have diverse cultural traditions that manifest in multiple ways, including through their musical genres and styles. Prior to colonization, indigenous music was an integral part of the cultural identity of many communities. However, after the genocide, the loss of many indigenous musicians and the destruction of cultural infrastructure significantly impacted the preservation and continuation of this music. 

 

Much changed for indigenous peoples when Europeans colonized their lands. They were forced to act differently and stop practicing their culture, which was very important to them. From the reservation system to the Indian Act, outright domination has caused violent, severe and lasting mental, physical and cultural harm to Indigenous peoples in Canada. The effects of these actions are still being felt today, with Indigenous communities still facing systemic racism, poverty and health disparities. 

 

During the period of colonization and cultural genocide brought about by the Europeans, many indigenous communities were banned from playing their sacred music, which resulted in the loss of some traditional music over time. However, when times changed and people became aware of the misdeeds and oppression of indigenous peoples, a revitalization, growth, and protest drove the new era of indigenous music. For example, the band La Murga Xicohtl mixes rock and local carnival sounds in their music while incorporating Náhuatl, the language once used by the Aztecs and now used by Nahua communities. This is also the case of Manuel Tlapa, the band's guitarist, who says that using Indigenous languages is a way to honor their roots while helping to strengthen their identity and forgotten origins.

 

The two main indigenous music types are traditional and contemporary. Indigenous traditional music is an essential part of the cultural heritage of many communities. It often reflects these communities' history, beliefs and values ​​and serves as a means of transmitting cultural knowledge from one generation to the next. Traditional music is mainly divided into two groups: social music and ceremonial music. Social music consists of songs accompanied by drums and rattles and may accompany stylized dances, while ceremonial music, considered sacred, is mainly vocal and accompanied by percussion. In indigenous cultures, most songs have two sources: those created or composed by an individual and those received by an individual in a dream or vision.

 

Also, the singing style varies among singers and the stylistic preferences of different nations. Traditional music is performed for community audiences, while powwows and festivals that feature Indigenous music, dance and traditions are open to non-Indigenous audiences. Traditional music, both social and ceremonial, has been passed down from person to person through a rich tradition of oral history. This growth has led to a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, resulting in a unique sound reflecting indigenous cultures' diversity and resilience.

 

Furthermore, the music of Canada's Indigenous communities is as diverse as the people who make it up. Indigenous artists were influenced by music outside their communities and created music in other styles and genres. This mixture has been around for centuries, but only recently have non-natives noticed it. Indigenous singer-songwriters have been recognized and acclaimed in Indigenous and mainstream markets and have succeeded in different genres.

 

In conclusion, over the years, many Indigenous artists have become outspoken advocates for reconciliation and Indigenous rights through their music. They work to raise awareness of the systemic inequalities faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. Consequently, Indigenous music has become a powerful tool for cultural preservation, healing and activism.