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Jul 12
 

FESTIVAL INNU NIKAMU PAYS TRIBUTE 

TO THE GREAT PHILIPPE MCKENZIE 


MANI-UTENAM, QC and MONTREAL, QC - July 13, 2024 - Philippe McKenzie, an iconic figure in Innu music in Canada, passed away in Sept-Îles on the afternoon of July 12. Born on October 26, 1953, in Mani-utenam, he began playing the guitar at 13. His commitment to music stemmed from a break with ancestral traditions, driving him to defend and advocate for Innu lifestyles and rights. The Innu Nikamu Festival, the Innu Nation, and the entire Indigenous community in Canada mourn the loss of this pioneering artist, whose talent and dedication profoundly impacted Indigenous music. Philippe McKenzie will forever remain a pillar of Innu culture, having inspired generations of artists through his works and his devotion to preserving Innu-aimun (his language) and Innu-aitun (his culture). It should be noted that his work has been recognized and celebrated by admirers worldwide.


Statement from Festival Innu Nikamu:


Words fail us to express the profound sadness we feel at the loss of a giant in music, the great Philippe McKenzie.


In such a sorrowful moment, we also feel immense gratitude. Infinite gratitude for the enormous legacy he leaves us.


Where would we be today if he had not dared to sing in Innu-aimun? Where would the Innu Nikamu Festival be today if Philippe had not shown us how poetic the Innu language is and how it blossoms even more when sung?


Poet, pioneer, singer, legend, symbol. No words are enough to express the vastness of his contribution to the world. He freed our tongues, allowing entire generations of Innu singers to express their emotions in their mother tongue, a language closer to the heart and soul.


The Nitassinan weeps since you left. The Mishta Shipu mourns your departure and will continue to sing your praises. Uashat Mani-utenam sobs and will remember you forever. Innu Nikamu is overwhelmed with grief and will remember you always.


For now, your drum has stopped beating. Your songs, your wisdom, your worldview, your gentle voice will resonate in the hearts of the Innu for eternity.


Thank you for everything.


Iame uenapissish.


ABOUT INNU NIKAMU FESTIVAL

The mission of the Innu Nikamu Festival is to promote and enhance Innu culture through music, dance, song and the arts. The Festival aims to bring together the Innu communities of Quebec and Labrador, as well as other Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, in a spirit of sharing and respect. The Festival takes place every August in Mani-utenam, on the North Shore. It is also recognized as one of the largest alcohol-free festivals in Canada. www.innunikamu.ca


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Source: Innu Nikamu Festival 

NORMAND Jr, THIRNISH-PILOT | Coordinator, Innu Nikamu Festival 




For more information, please contact:

PHILIP VANDEN BRANDE | Vice President, Partner & Executive Publicist, annexe

phil@annexe.media | +1 438 402 7391 | www.annexe.media

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