In honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the National Music Centre presents a discussion on the power of music in reconciliation.
Panelists include rapper Rex Smallboy (War Party), Curt Young, and Wendy Walker, who will share their thoughts on the topic and a short performance that supports the discussion. The panel will be hosted by Drezus — an Anishinaabe/Nêhiyaw artist based in Mohkínstsis.
Visitors are also encouraged to explore the newly updated Speak Up! exhibition. Curated by David McLeod and National Music Centre’s National Indigenous Programming Advisory Committee, this exhibition highlights trailblazing Indigenous voices in music. Recent additions include Beatrice Deer, Dakhká Khwáan Dancers, Ray St. Germain, Harry Rusk, and Kelly Fraser, alongside earlier additions Drezus (2023) and War Party (2020). Through storytelling, audio and artifacts, Speak Up! exhibition demonstrates how Indigenous artists are reshaping the Canadian narrative of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit identity.
Admission to Studio Bell is free for everyone on September 30.
About Drezus
Drezus is a highly recognized Anishinaabe/Nehiyaw hip-hop artist from Mohkinstis. He blends raw lyricism with cultural resilience, creating moving and empowering music. His career includes a JUNO nomination with Team Rezofficial, and his album *Redwinter* was a significant rallying cry for the Idle No More movement. He has received numerous accolades, including the 2022 SOCAN Vince Fontaine Indigenous Song Award, a 2017 MTV VMA with Taboo (Black Eyed Peas), and four Indigenous Music Awards in 2015. Drezus has performed with major artists such as Drake and 50 Cent, bridging Indigenous and mainstream music. He has also appeared in *Yellowstone* and contributed to various soundtracks, with his recent release "Ballad of Bobby Jones" showcasing his unapologetic and culturally rooted storytelling.
About Curt Young
Curt Young, an award-winning Blues Rock artist, singer/songwriter, and musician from the Saulteaux-Cree First Nation Cowessess in Saskatchewan, he has collaborated with over 300 schools and impacted more than 25,000 students over 15 years. He uses culture as a powerful teaching tool, performing traditional/contemporary music and dance to share his experiences and address themes of empowerment, equality, youth leadership, and self-esteem. Curt plays guitar, cedar flute, and hand drum, incorporating storytelling into his performances. He has opened for artists like Colin James and Tom Jackson and has performed globally, including at the CP Spirit Train Canadian Olympic Tour and the World Indigenous People Conference on Education in Peru.
About Rex Smallboy
Rex Smallboy, an Indigenous rapper originally from Maskwacis and now based in Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleleil-Waututh territory, powerfully protests the horrific treatment of Indigenous people in Canada and highlights the devastating impacts of colonialism. His music embodies generations of Indigenous truth and perseverance, serving as a call for justice. A proud and sober father, Rex is dedicated to healing intergenerational trauma and performs an apology song as part of his healing journey. In 2001, his vision helped War Party become the first Indigenous rap group to gain national recognition on Much Music Rap City. His milestones include recording with Chuck D, performing at the World Expo in Japan, and teaching music production to Indigenous youth. War Party was recognized in the SPEAK UP! exhibition at the NMC 2020. His most recent release addresses the discovery of thousands of Indigenous children's bodies at residential schools.
About Wendy Walker
Wendy Walker is an award-winning Indigenous songwriter, performer, playwright, and filmmaker. Her work beautifully weaves together music, storytelling, and cultural truth-telling, earning her recognition from the Alberta Government. She has released multiple albums, performed internationally (including at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics), and created original theatre and film works. Wendy has also led major community-based art projects and successfully lobbied to establish the Indigenous Artist of the Year Award at the YYC Music Awards. She currently serves on the boards of Music Mile and Stoodis Fest 2026. Her work consistently uplifts and inspires by connecting audiences to resilience, ancestral wisdom, and the power of story.
The National Music Centre's Speak Up! exhibition is made possible with support from TD.
