The question of who was the first Native American rock musician is a complex one, as the history of rock music and Native American music are both rich and multifaceted. However, there are a few key figures who are often cited as important pioneers in the fusion of Native American music with rock and roll.
One of the earliest Native American rock musicians was Link Wray, a Shawnee guitarist and songwriter who rose to prominence in the 1950s and 60s. Wray is perhaps best known for his instrumental track “Rumble,” which was released in 1958 and went on to become a major influence on rock guitarists such as Pete Townshend and Neil Young. Wray’s music blended elements of rock and roll with his Native American heritage, and he often incorporated his Shawnee culture into his stage performances.
Another important figure in the development of Native American rock music was Jesse Ed Davis, a Kiowa guitarist and session musician who played with artists such as Taj Mahal, Eric Clapton, and John Lennon. Davis was a versatile musician who played in a variety of styles, but he is perhaps best remembered for his work on albums such as Taj Mahal’s “The Natch’l Blues” and George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass.” Like Wray, Davis incorporated elements of his Native American heritage into his music and was an important influence on subsequent generations of Native American rock musicians.
Other notable Native American rock musicians include Buffy Sainte-Marie, a Cree singer-songwriter who gained fame in the 1960s folk scene; Robbie Robertson, a Mohawk guitarist and songwriter who was a founding member of The Band; and Redbone, a Native American rock band who had a hit in 1974 with the song “Come and Get Your Love.”
It’s worth noting that the history of Native American rock music is not always a straightforward one. Many Native American musicians have faced discrimination and marginalization in the music industry, and their contributions have often been overlooked or forgotten. Additionally, the line between “Native American music” and “rock music” is not always clear-cut, as many Native American artists have blended elements of both genres in their work.
In conclusion, while there is no one “first” Native American rock musician, there are many important figures who have contributed to the development of this genre over the years. Link Wray, Jesse Ed Davis, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Robbie Robertson, and Redbone are just a few examples of the many talented Native American musicians who have helped to shape the sound of rock music. Sources for this article include the book “Native American Music in Eastern North America” by Beverley Diamond, as well as articles from Rolling Stone, NPR, and other reputable sources.
