Adrian Sutherland

One listen to Adrian Sutherland and you’ll know he’s unlike anyone else. Born and raised in Canada’s Far North, the roots-rocker-with-heart from Attawapiskat First Nation has the voice of a songbird, a boatload of talent, and an ocean of muses from the waters of James Bay. His melding of folk, rock, roots, and blues draws inspiration from his northern life, traditional lands, and Cree culture. His music touches hearts, with soul-stirring songs rippling far beyond stages and airwaves.

Adrian’s sophomore album Precious Diamonds was released March 15, 2024. Produced in Nashville by Colin Linden, and mastered in New Jersey by the multi-Grammy-winning team of Greg Calbi and Steve Fallone, legendary guest artists on the ten-track record include Mickey Raphael (harmonica) and Jim Hoke (saxophones).

Two songs are written in Adrian’s Indigenous language, marking the first time in his music career he is writing and recording in Omushkegowuk Cree. You’ll also hear pow wow singing and chanting woven into the songs, performed by Adrian himself – the first time he has done so in his contemporary music.

Adrian first worked with Colin Linden in 2021. Literally cut-off from the rest of the world for two full years, Adrian built his own recording studio inside a shipping container to stay active in music. He used it to work remotely to record solo debut When The Magic Hits. The album earned nominations at the 2022 JUNO Awards and 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards, while title track Magic Hits won Best Music Video from San Francisco’s 47th American Indian Film Festival. It would also become the catalyst to launch his solo career.

Adrian wrote and released three full albums of music with his band Midnight Shine before turning to solo projects. As one of the only professional recording artists in all of Canada who resides on a remote fly-in First Nation, and who is fluent in his native language… Adrian’s story is compelling enough to capture the attention of national media like CTV’s The Social and Etalk, and international media like CNN Entertainment. He is presently writing a book for Penguin Random House Canada about his extraordinary life in the north.

Adrian cares deeply about many causes, with first-hand perspective on issues like contaminated water, food insecurity, addictions, and mental health. At this important time of reconciliation, he is hopeful for Canadians to walk together in love and respect.