Biography

Adrian Sutherland is a roots-rock artist with heart from Attawapiskat First Nation on James Bay. He’s a singer, songwriter, speaker, author, advocate, entrepreneur, and the fascinating founder and frontman of all-Cree rockers Midnight Shine. He’s also a traditional knowledge keeper and respected cultural leader, fluent in Mushkegowuk Cree. After constructing his own recording studio inside a shipping container during the pandemic, Adrian worked remotely with Colin Linden (Nashville) and Tim Vesely (Toronto) to record solo debut When The Magic Hits. The album earned nominations at the 2022 JUNO Awards and 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards, and won Best Music Video (for Magic Hits) at the 47th American Indian Film Festival. Adrian is presently writing a book for Penguin Random House Canada about his life in the Far North. He cares deeply about many causes, with first-hand perspective about issues like contaminated water, housing shortages, food insecurity, and mental health. At this time of growing awareness around Reconciliation, Adrian is hopeful for Canadians to better understand one another, and take further steps together.