Curtis Clear Sky: Using Music to Empower, Heal, and Elevate Indigenous Voices

Interview conducted by Daybreak Star Radio Producer, Jermaine Jackson

At Daybreak Star Radio, our mission is to Indigenize the Airwaves by amplifying Indigenous voices, stories, and artists who are making a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. In this special edition of The Winner’s Edge, Producer Jermaine Jackson sat down with acclaimed Indigenous recording artist Curtis Clear Sky, whose music, activism, and leadership continue to inspire audiences across Turtle Island and around the world.

Anishinaabe and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Curtis grew up on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations in what is now Vancouver, British Columbia. As the lead vocalist and MC of Curtis Clear Sky & The Constellationz, he has developed a unique sound he calls Indigifunk—a vibrant fusion of hip-hop, funk, soul, reggae, blues, and Indigenous storytelling. But for Curtis, music has always been about much more than entertainment.

Music as Medicine

When asked where his musical journey began, Curtis didn’t point to an album or a concert. Instead, he reflected on something much deeper.

“We all come from that heartbeat,” he shared. “Music has been a healing outlet, a space of empowerment, and a place where people can feel good.”

Growing up during the golden era of hip-hop, Curtis found inspiration in artists like Tupac and Wu-Tang Clan. But his curiosity led him even further back, exploring the original funk and soul records sampled by many of hip-hop’s pioneers. That journey eventually inspired him to build a live band centered around rhythm, groove, and authentic musicianship.

For Curtis, every song begins with the rhythm section. “My drummer and my bass player—that’s where it all starts.”

Creating the Sound of Indigifunk

Curtis describes Indigifunk as music that makes people move while delivering a meaningful message.

Inspired heavily by George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic, he wanted to create songs that felt timeless—music audiences could dance to while also reflecting on identity, community, and healing.

Whether performing for intimate gatherings or major festivals, his goal remains the same: “I want everyone to vibe, feel good, dance, and leave with a message.”

That philosophy has helped define his career and earned him recognition throughout the Indigenous music community.

A Messenger of Truth

One of Curtis’ most meaningful honors came in 2006 when the United Nations recognized him as a Messenger of Truth. The recognition grew out of his advocacy work with Indigenous youth in Vancouver, where he used hip-hop as a platform to confront issues like racial profiling, underfunding of Indigenous youth programs, and community empowerment.

Rather than seeing music solely as performance, Curtis viewed it as a vehicle for creating opportunities and elevating Indigenous voices.

That same commitment continues today through his involvement in launching the Indigenous Music Office of Canada in 2023, an organization dedicated to strengthening Indigenous music nationally while building connections across Turtle Island.

“Our stories are going to come through,” Curtis said. “You can’t stop spirit.”

The Power of Turtle Island

Among Curtis’ most meaningful works is the song “Turtle Island,” featuring Juno Award-winning Mohawk blues artist Murray Porter.

The song was inspired after Curtis traveled to Aotearoa (New Zealand), where he encountered powerful Indigenous anthems from Aboriginal artists in Australia. He realized Indigenous peoples across the world deserved songs that affirmed their own identities.

For Curtis, “Turtle Island” became exactly that—an anthem celebrating Indigenous peoples of North America while honoring the teachings and stories passed down through generations. Throughout the interview, Curtis reflected on the similarities shared by Indigenous communities around the world.

“Our customs may be different,” he explained, “but our values are the same—respecting our ancestors, the land, the water, the animals, and giving gratitude.”

Music with Intention

Curtis has shared stages with legendary artists, including The Wailers, an experience he described as both humbling and exhilarating.

Yet no matter the venue or audience size, he approaches every performance the same way. “It’s a ceremony,” he said. Rather than simply entertaining, Curtis hopes every performance leaves listeners feeling empowered.

Songs like “Soul Powered,” “Plant Your Dreams,” and “We Belong” aren’t just lyrics—they’re affirmations rooted in Indigenous resilience and hope.

His newest releases continue that mission while featuring world-class production by Grammy-winning producer Garth Richardson, whose résumé includes Rage Against the Machine and Red Hot Chili Peppers. The new recordings were also mixed in Dolby Atmos, giving listeners an immersive experience that matches the depth of the songwriting.

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked what advice he’d give young Indigenous people pursuing dreams in music or life, Curtis offered a message that reached beyond artistry. “What we think, say, and do becomes our reality.”

He encouraged youth to be mindful not only of what they consume physically, but also what they listen to, who they surround themselves with, and what they allow into their minds.

“Our cultures and our medicines are gifts,” he said. “Find those healthy things that help guide you toward your purpose.”

If he could speak to his younger self today, his advice would be simple: “Relax. Don’t worry so much. Count your blessings. Everything will work out.” It’s a message rooted in gratitude, faith, and trust—qualities that continue to define both the artist and the man behind the music.

At Daybreak Star Radio, we’re honored to share Curtis Clear Sky’s story. His music reminds us that Indigenous voices are not only surviving—they are thriving, leading, and creating spaces where future generations can see themselves reflected.

As Curtis continues to release new music and build bridges across Indigenous communities worldwide, one thing remains certain: his voice is helping ensure that Indigenous stories, songs, and truths continue to be heard for generations to come.