Local Label Spotlight: Canyon Records

You want real “alternative” music? How about a CD titled Stories Told: Harmonized Peyote Songs? That’s the title of the new collection of authentic Native American folk songs from Grammy award-winner Verdell Primeaux with Terry Hanks. It’s one of several releases of indigenous music, folk dance, and pow-wow songs from Canyon Records, a local label that’s the focus of this week’s Local Label Spotlight.

By Niki D'Andrea

April 30, 2008

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By Niki D’Andrea

You want real “alternative” music? How about a CD titled Stories Told: Harmonized Peyote Songs? That’s the title of the new collection of authentic Native American folk songs from Grammy award-winner Verdell Primeaux with Terry Hanks. It’s one of several releases of indigenous music, folk dance, and pow-wow songs from Canyon Records, a local label that’s the focus of this week’s Local Label Spotlight.

Canyon Records (Phoenix) Founded in 1951

Roster includes:

Verdell Primeaux Warscout R. Carlos Nakai Blackfire Judy Trejo

R. Carlos Nakai

Why they’re hot:

The label’s records have garnered a total of 22 Grammy nominations over the years, winning for Best Native American Album in 2002 (Verdell Primeaux and Johnny Mike’s Bless the People).

The label’s won the only two gold records the RIAA has ever awarded for Native American albums, for R. Carlos Nakai’s Canyon Trilogy and Earth Spirit albums.

The label’s roster represents a diverse and wide breadth of Native American Nations, from all over North America.

Where to find them online:

www.canyonrecords.com

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Niki D'Andrea has covered subjects including drug culture, women's basketball, pirate radio stations, Scottsdale staycations, and fine wine. She has worked at both New Times and Phoenix Magazine, and is now a freelancer.

Contact: Niki D'Andrea