Buffy Sainte-Marie

Buffy Sainte-Marie is a Canadian-American singer-songwriter, musician, and activist, known for her distinctive blend of folk, rock, and Indigenous music. Born on February 20, 1941, on the Piapot Cree First Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada, she rose to prominence in the 1960s with her powerful voice and poignant lyrics that often addressed social justice, Indigenous rights, and anti-war themes. Notable works include her debut album, *It's My Way!* (1964), featuring the iconic protest song "Universal Soldier," which has been covered by numerous artists. Her song "Until It's Time for You to Go" has also been widely recorded. Sainte-Marie's contributions to music extend beyond her recordings; she was a prominent figure in the folk music revival and has been an influential advocate for Indigenous rights. Sainte-Marie's impact on music is multifaceted, as she has inspired generations of artists and activists with her commitment to social change and her ability to blend traditional Indigenous musical elements with contemporary genres. Throughout her career, she has received various accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Up Where We Belong" (1982), and has been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.