Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Pretendians Band. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Pretendians Band, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

For us, taking a risk is as simple as putting ourselves out there. As a band, we believe in letting everyone express their voice, while also trusting our own instincts and creative vision. Even when we hit bumps in the road or encounter unexpected challenges, we know that these experiences only add to the story and to our journey.

As individuals, we bring our own perspective to the table by sharing our unique life experiences as Indigenous, mixed BIPOC artists. As Indigenous artists and survivors of generational trauma, it is of utmost importance for our band to build upon our shared experiences and create a space that is inclusive.

Not everyone feels at ease stepping into that kind of space of not knowing that their identity as a contemporary Indigenous artist and storyteller will be acknowledged and respected. Pretendians Band offers an opportunity to merge traditional elements with modern artistic expression, political activism, educational messages, and our deep love and respect for our relatives.

Pretendians Band is a unique experience, as every member is a true and equal contributor to our vision and direction honoring the true expression of the D/Lakota belief of “Mitakuye Oyasin”, that “we are all related” and where traditions are rooted in connectiveness and inclusion.

For us, playing rock music while honoring our culture makes us stand out as different and felt like a huge risk, especially in the beginning. It’s a testament to the fact that times are changing, and Indigenous people also have a seat at the rock and roll table. Each time we opt for authenticity over trying to fit in or by trying to fit into a mold, we are embracing that uncertainty and taking a leap of faith. It’s a thrill that we are excited to embrace over and over again.

Our path as Indigenous artists has been carved by those who came before us. It is up to us to look back, see our present, and continue to choose to make a difference in the future.

Pretendians Band, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Pretendians Band is a Native American rock band that calls Northeast Minneapolis, Minnesota home. Formed in 2014, the group has made a name for themselves by infusing their music with a modern indigenous perspective, crafting a dynamic and energy-fueled brand of conscious rock music. Despite the name of the band, Pretendians Band is not pretending anything. Most of the band represent the Oceti Ŝakowiŋ (7 Council Fires) of the Dakhota/Lakhota Nation, hailing from Standing Rock, Rosebud, and Crow Creek tribes.

​Pretendians Band draws inspiration from a wide range of rock influences and has crafted their unique brand of rock music by joining it with indigenous-centric lyrics, told from a modern Indigenous perspective. At the heart of Pretendians Band’s music is a commitment to celebrating their indigeneity and history, while also exploring the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. The lyrics touch on themes of identity, justice, and empowerment.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Being a musician, either as a solo artist or in a local band, is an interesting hobby. It takes some combination of dedication and talent to stay the course, regardless of the desired end result.

Musicians and artists in general, enhance the communities that they’re part of. We entertain, create friendships, create happiness, inspire, educate, and foster unity through music and performance. We play a vital role in community life.

Some ways you can support your favorite local musicians are:

• Come out and see us perform. One of the best ways to support us is to come to our live shows and see us perform. Live shows are a way that we get to connect with followers, gain exposure, and showcase our music. By attending live shows, you’re also supporting the venue, the organizers and everyone else who makes it possible for us to perform.
• Purchase our music and merch. You can support us by buying our music and merchandise directly from us – Either at our shows or check out our website for details. Buying our music and merchandise also shows that you appreciate our creativity and that you want to support our artistic vision.
• Follow us on social media and help spread the word. Social media is a great way for us to reach out to followers, promote our shows, music, and to solidify our brand. You can also help us to grow our fans and followers by sharing our posts with your friends.
• Book us for your events. We love to be part of the community as well. We love performing for fundraisers and other community and private events.

We truly love and appreciate the support we get from our fans. As musicians and performers we can’t do it alone – We need your help to thrive.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a musician and what keeps us coming back again and again, is the way that music allows us to connect with our emotions and thoughts and to reach into our life experiences to make music. We often do this without realizing we’re doing it. It’s been said that music is the best therapy and it truly is.

There are times where our live shows can be so electrifying. When you feel the crowd connecting with your music, and you see them grooving along to the rhythm of the songs you’ve created, it’s like an exchange of energy. It’s a way of communicating that words could never describe.

But the absolute best part of being a musician is connecting with people. We love the interaction with people after we perform. When someone approaches us and takes the time to tell tells you, “Hey, your music/your words gave me goosebumps!” or “Wow. I looove your sound!” It’s such a thrill to know that we are making a difference and reached a person in ways that we/they didn’t expect. It’s a priceless, incredible shared human experience that words simply can’t adequately describe.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pretendiansband.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pretendiansband/
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/pretendiansband
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pretendiansband
• Other: https://pretendians.bandcamp.com/music

Image Credits
CC Photo Arts Vera Allen Neza S.G.