Monthly Archives: April 2024

The Eskimo Ninja, Nick Hanson, Reflects on the Native Youth Olympic Games

In honor of the commencement of the 2024 Native Youth Olympic Games, the RIVR editorial team sat down with Eskimo Ninja Warrior, Nick Hanson. Originally from Unalakleet, Alaska, he began his early athletic career participating in the NYO games. Check out Nick’s reflection of his athletic journey, as well as four songs that get him pumped for a workout!

1. What is your experience with the Native Youth Olympics?

I’ve been competing in the Native Games since 2004 and the thing I love most about the games is the sportsmanship and coaching. Every athlete is concerned about their personal best rather than winning — and, of course, sometimes their personal best means winning — but never at the expense of humility and sportsmanship.

2. How has your previous training in the Native Youth Olympics prepared you for the challenges of the Alaska Eskimo Ninja Warrior course?

The Native Games and Ninja Warrior are a perfect marriage of athleticism. I’m a “jumper” in the native games, so when I started Ninja 10 seasons ago, my upper body had never been tested in that way. Ninja Warrior became a great way to fill out my core and arm strength, which improved my ability in the jumping events of NYO.

3. What challenges do you anticipate facing in the Alaska Eskimo Ninja Warrior competition, and how do you plan to overcome them?

As the sport of Ninja Warrior has continued to evolve, the youth have slowly taken over the competition.y biggest challenge is maintaining my health and preventing injury by staying active, watching what I eat and always stretching before any activity. Little did I know — Longevity in sports started back in middle school with P.E. Stretches! Haha

4. In what ways do you integrate traditional Alaska Native athleticism into your approach to the Alaska Eskimo Ninja Warrior competition?I do the games.

The Native Games test one’s body in a way nothing else can; core, legs, balance, agility. Every single game presents a challenge and workout that involves every aspect of living, survival and grit — all nece

5. Can you share a memorable moment from your training or preparation for the Alaska Eskimo Ninja Warrior competition that highlights the importance of your cultural heritage?

When I first applied for the show, my entire submission video was a highlight real of my NYO/WEIO experience. I explained the significance of each sport and how they directly relate to survival techniques our ancestors used to survive in Alaska. The Los Angeles producers had never heard of or learned about our ways of life, and were especially interested in Knuckle Hop. So, when I got a chance to demonstrate Knuckle Hop to them in person, they were all in shock — but the best part was when they all decided to try it with me. I share our games and they couldn’t get enough of the history and cultural connection. 


6. What advice do you have for young Native athletes hoping to make it to the Ninja Warrior course?

Never stop telling your story, and know who you are. Be confident in your natural abilities and inherent grit that we as Alaskan Native people have just by living here. Every day we struggle just go get to school — a blizzard, getting wood, hunting on the ice — these are natural tools and abilities the other competitors don’t have that is as Alaskan Natives live through every day. 

Four Songs to Pump You Up:

Come alive by the Greatest Showman 

Man out of you by Mulan

Pieces by Redhandler More

You are more than Able by Chandler Moore

Inuit Throat Singer Charlotte Qamaniq Releases Cover “Ever So Lovely/Eyes/Ocean” In Honor of Earth Day

Internationally acclaimed musician and violin virtuoso Gingger Shankar and Inuit throat singer, also a member of the Juno Award-nominated band Silla and Rise, Charlotte Qamaniq, joined forces for Earth Day in a groundbreaking musical collaboration. Together, they have reimagined Sheila Chandra’s iconic track “Ever So Lonely/Eyes/Ocean” into a mesmerizing love song to nature. This marks the first time the Inuit throat singing tradition and South Indian classical vocal tradition have merged. “Ever So Lonely/Eyes/Ocean” will be released on April 22 via Naughty Horses Records, serving as the first single from Shankar’s upcoming full-length acapella record.

Pj Vegas Releases New Single “You’ve Been Hurt”

PJ Vegas, the soulful crooner renowned for his heartfelt lyricism and emotive performances, has once again captivated audiences with his latest single release, “You’ve Been Hurt.” In this soul-stirring ballad, Vegas takes listeners on a poignant journey. With his unmistakable vocal prowess and poignant storytelling, PJ Vegas delivers a track that resonates deeply with audiences, offering solace and hope in the face of adversity.

At the heart of “You’ve Been Hurt” lies a narrative of overcoming pain and finding strength in vulnerability. Set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation and haunting melodies, Vegas’ vocals soar as he navigates themes of heartbreak, redemption, and self-empowerment. Each lyric is imbued with raw emotion, inviting listeners to connect with their own experiences of love and loss.

OTYKEN & XZIBIT Release Remix Track “Belief”

Renowned Rapper Xzibit has reimagined the original track “Belief” by Otyken, infusing it with his signature Hip-Hop style. He contributed new verses in English, delivering a powerful message: “Everything you need to succeed is already within you.” We extend our heartfelt thanks to Xzibit and his team for their collaboration. This remix marks a significant milestone, elevating the traditional music of the indigenous peoples of Siberia to new heights. We hope you enjoy this fusion of cultures as much as we do!”

Russian Siberian Dance Group Otyken Releases New Single “Chukotka”

A diverse ensemble comprised of members representing Siberia’s indigenous communities, Otyken, unveils their latest single, “Chukotka,” paying homage to the native peoples of the Far North and their rich cultural heritage. This lyrical composition, complemented by ethnic traditional instruments and mesmerizing throat singing, transports listeners to the expansive northern seas, cloaked in ice, where majestic whales roam beneath the frozen surface.

Sung in the Chulym language, the lyrics tackle urgent issues such as environmental conservation, ecology, and the perils of sea pollution and reckless oil extraction. Through the lens of the Chukotka Peninsula, the song eloquently portrays the familial and cultural values cherished by Siberia’s indigenous communities, while expressing profound gratitude to past generations for safeguarding traditions and enabling the pursuit of passions.

iskwē’s Latest Album Release “nīna”: A Mesmerizing Blend of Identity and Empowerment

Canadian musician iskwē has once again captivated audiences with her latest album release, “nīna”. Named after the Cree translation for “me,” the album features themes of identity, empowerment, and cultural resilience, showcasing Iskwē’s unique blend of musical influences and thought-provoking lyricism.

nīna, the pinnacle of iskwē’s renewal, signifies “me” in Cree and serves as the title of her fourth solo album, paying homage to its deeply autobiographical essence. The album embodies the exploration of the divine feminine through narratives of love, passion, anger, betrayal, and loss.

To give life to her compelling narratives, iskwē collaborated with 10-time Grammy-nominated producer Damian Taylor (known for his work with Björk, The Killers, Bomba Estereo). Damian co-wrote select tracks, including the lead single “I Get High” ft. Nina Hagen, which soared to the Top 20 of the Alt-Rock charts. Their combined efforts yield an ethereal blend, evoking the sensuality of late 90s R&B with a tantalizing twist reminiscent of Esthero

Tataskweyak Cree Nation Artist Sebastian Gaskin Releases “Ghost”

Gaskin’s music defies categorization, drawing from a wellspring of intuition and instinct. Their sound evokes echoes of Bill Withers’ timeless soulfulness and John Mayer’s musical virtuosity, interspersed with the playful lyricism reminiscent of Post Malone and Pro Era. As a skilled producer and arranger, Gaskin collaborates seamlessly with other talents, such as Evan Miles and Milano, to push the boundaries of each genre they explore.

Having graced stages worldwide, Gaskin has shared platforms with artists like Common and T-Pain. Their eagerly anticipated debut album, set to release under the banner of Indigenous-owned Ishkōdé Records and Universal Music Canada, promises a rich tapestry of musical innovation and cultural resonance.

Sebastian Gaskin is originally from the Tataskweyak Cree Nation and is based in Toronto. Gaskin’s music defies categorization, drawing from a wellspring of intuition and instinct. Their sound evokes echoes of Bill Withers’ timeless soulfulness and John Mayer’s musical virtuosity, interspersed with the playful lyricism reminiscent of Post Malone and Pro Era. As a skilled producer and arranger, Gaskin collaborates seamlessly with other talents, such as Evan Miles and Milano, to push the boundaries of each genre they explore.

Having graced stages worldwide, Gaskin has shared platforms with artists like Common and T-Pain. Their eagerly anticipated debut album, set to release under the banner of Indigenous-owned Ishkōdé Records and Universal Music Canada, promises a rich tapestry of musical innovation and cultural resonance.

OKC Hip Hop Duo Lil Mike & Funny Bone Release New Album “Vibin”

Lil Mike & Funny Bone are the Native American rap duo renowned for their appearance on America’s Got Talent and from Hulu’s hit series, Res Dogs. Hailing from Oklahoma City, these brothers bear a striking resemblance but are not twins. Despite their stature, they compensate with exceptional talent.

Individually known as Mike & Bone, they have honed their craft over the years, gracing stages at various venues including clubs, churches, casinos, children’s parties, car shows, and retirement homes. Beyond mere rapping, they have evolved into performance artists and motivational speakers. Through independent production and relentless gigging, they pursued their dream of global recognition.

Their journey has seen triumphs in talent competitions, appearances on live television across the USA and Canada, hosting events, DJing at nightclubs, and opening for renowned acts such as Jacob Latimore, Wine-O, Lil Troy, and others. They’ve even entertained crowds in penitentiaries and been mobbed by enthusiastic fans in various locales.

Reflecting on their journey, Funny Bone notes the absence of drama in his relatively normal life, crediting the five-year age gap between him and Mike. His elder brother played a pivotal role in nurturing his talents from childhood. With music as their primary profession, they spend their weekends either touring or engaging with their community at the Old Paris flea market in OKC, known as “405 Music.”

The duo’s focus remains on writing, recording, and performing, with success within their reach. They stand as emblematic figures, injecting positivity into the rap scene with their Native American heritage.