Interview with Stevie Salas: A Journey Through Music and Film

Daybreak Star Radio recently featured an exciting interview with Stevie Salas, the renowned Native American guitarist, producer, and filmmaker, conducted by DJ Red and RONN!E. Known for his trailblazing music career, having played with rock legends like Mick Jagger, Rod Stewart, and George Clinton, Salas has made a significant impact both on stage and behind the scenes in the music industry.

In the interview, Salas reflected on his evolution from being a celebrated guitarist to a filmmaker. His transition into filmmaking began with the critically acclaimed documentary Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World. The film highlights the often overlooked contributions of Native American musicians to rock and popular music, a project close to Salas’ heart. With Rumble, Salas aimed to bring to light the rich history of Native talent in the music world, which has often gone unrecognized. The documentary has been praised for its powerful storytelling and its role in reshaping the narrative around Indigenous musicians.

Salas also shared his insights on the challenges of documentary filmmaking. Unlike music, which allowed him to express himself freely, documentary production required navigating logistical and financial hurdles, such as securing archival footage. However, the impact of Rumble has been profound, increasing awareness of Native contributions to music history.

In addition to his work in Rumble, Salas discussed his latest project, Boil Alert. This documentary addresses the critical issue of water access in Indigenous communities, marking a shift from his music-focused work to social issues affecting Native populations. Salas is passionate about raising awareness on this urgent topic, hoping to inspire tangible action and change.

Beyond filmmaking, Salas remains proud of his musical career, citing several milestones, including working with iconic artists and winning his second Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 San Diego Music Awards. His work continues to celebrate and amplify Indigenous voices, both in music and film.

Salas also co-founded Seeing Red Media, a platform dedicated to promoting Indigenous stories in the media. This initiative aims to empower Indigenous creators to take control of their narratives and push their stories to the forefront.

The interview concluded with a message for young Indigenous artists. Salas emphasized the importance of perseverance, encouraging youth to pursue their passions in the arts while staying connected to their cultural roots. His career serves as an inspiring example of how Indigenous stories can thrive across various creative mediums.

Stevie Salas continues to leave a lasting legacy, from his groundbreaking guitar work to his impactful contributions to film and Indigenous advocacy.