Evan Redsky

Evan Redsky embodies and relays an array of Indigenous stories and perspectives in order to better understand his own. Reclaiming the music of his childhood—the country heroes playing on his grandma’s car radio, like Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, and Blue Rodeo—he tells vulnerable stories of longing and resilience.

Growing up in the First Nations Reserve of Mississaugi First Nation in Blind River, Ontario, Redsky was often compelled to hitchhike to Toronto to immerse himself in the city’s burgeoning punk and hardcore music scene. Redsky recalls sleeping under bridges and on construction sites, dedicated to making music happen. At 19 years old, Redsky started performing with punk outfit Single Mothers, going on to perform with the JUNO Award-nominated group everywhere from local clubs to Primavera Sound to the Pitchfork Music Festival. However, as the group saw increasing success, Redsky felt more and more empowered to explore other musical paths and tell his own stories.

These days, it’s tough to keep up with all of Redsky’s eclectic projects. He’s a member of “Turtle Island Hardcore” band Indian Giver; he performs with folk-rock duo Altemeda and singer-songwriter Wyatt C. Lewis; he plays bass with groups like country ensemble Nicolette and the Nobodies. A stalwart of the Toronto scene, Redsky’s commitment to collaboration is evident in his impressive musicianship and impassioned songwriting, as he showcased on his debut solo album, 2022’s Oblivion.