Ashley Wray

Special to The Progress –

A three-time Juno award winner who knocked fellow Canadian singer Shania Twain off the top of the charts in the mid 90s is coming to Chilliwack at the end of the month.

Susan Aglukark, an Inuk singer and songwriter, is bringing her inspirational music to the Chilliwack Arts Centre on both October 27 and 28.

Aglukark was propelled to fame with her soulful country song O’Siem in 1995, which means to welcome and honour guests.

Although she has since released a number of albums and continues to perform across Canada, it was the time immediately following the breakout song that was difficult for Aglukark.

“There was a period of time after the success of [the album] This Child that I thought I needed to write another hit album,” says Aglukark. “But I realized that if I was to start writing from that place, then I wasn’t being true to the artist.

“I decided to write from my heart because that’s how I can be the most honest about my culture and be as true as I can be to its innocence and beauty.”

Writing with such an honest and clear voice about the Inuit culture and people is a quality that makes Aglukark unique. She believes that her story telling lyrics can shed a new light on her culture and send a message to people, whether they are aboriginal or not.

“I hope that the audience listens to the songs and stories and realize that our heritage has in an incredible part of Canada and its history,” says Aglukark. “There is this quiet strength in our people and that’s what I hope the audience walks away with. It’s not just the romanticized versions we read about, we have a strength and determination to live and love life.”

While Aglukark continues to write lyrics about the stories of her people, blending the Inuktitut and English languages, it’s the sound that is starting to change.

Moving away from a country influence, Aglukark describes her latest album Blood Red Earth as “a combination of rootsy, traditional and easy listening.”

“It’s kind of like an exorcism of years of creativity that has collected and been thrown to the side,” says Aglukark, adding that this is the first album she’s produced independently after leaving her label. “I’ve reached this point as an artist and in my life and this reflects that. It’s more of a statement album personally and professionally.”

Aglukark’s life experiences and cultural history have not only inspired her to write powerful songs, but have also motivated her to be a keynote speaker and workshop facilitator.

Her speaking often addresses the social problems on reserves and small towns across Northern Canada. Her message is one of encouragement to help youth move forward with their self esteem and build self confidence.

It’s a message that Aglukark will be teaching during a workshop on the Chehalis reserve for young parents the weekend she is in town.

Susan Aglukark and her band will be performing at the Chilliwack Arts Centre on October 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. Two local acts, Sto:lo singer Inez and the Sts’a’iles dancers, will be opening the show. Tickets are available by calling (604) 792 – 2069.