Edmonton singer songwriter Sierra Jamerson has a powerful voice; it's one she uses to express stories that grow out of the deep roots of a unique family history. Strongly grounded in her traditions, Jamerson chooses those elements of her history that match her present values, and uses them to fuel a strong vision for her future. Her immediate future includes plans to release a song to commercial radio.
She says her first single Trail of Tears “is about the historical forced removal of Indigenous people in the late 1800s in Southern USA. About 6,000 of the 15,000 people who walked across states perished in the harsh winter. “ It's also about the story of her people, the Tahltan First Nation and their struggle to protect their land and territory from resource exploitation and pollution.
While focused on a career in music, she looks to roll models such as her grandmother Lillian Campbell who is one of the Klabona Keepers , a group of Thaltan elders who occupy and use traditional lands in an effort to preserve them for future generations. It seems Jamerson's songs are yet another vehicle to preserve the culture of her people for tomorrow, and to share their traditions with a wider community.
Inspired by other strong female vocalists like Alanis Morissette, Joni Mitchell, Buffy St. Marie, and Nina Simone, Sierras says, “I'm in awe of artists who are vulnerable and open in their lyrics, or who use their music to promote equality and human rights. It takes a lot of bravery to stand up for what you believe in.” Sometimes it also takes money.
While traditions inspire the lyrics of her songs, Jamerson takes a modern approach to the business side of music, using a crowd funding campaign to fund her latest project. When asked why she opted to use crowd funding to raise money for her recording, Jamerson said, “[Crowd funding] is engaging” The way she has structured the campaign it also lets her be in touch with her fans and see them face to face. She is also having a fund raising concert on September 12th.
Jamerson's biggest dream is for one day to have people think of her name when they think of Canadian singer/songwriters who have made a lasting contribution to our culture. If you would like to help encourage her in this dream, you can show your support for this emerging Canadian singer by contributing to her crowd funding campaign here.
With plans to travel to other countries to perform, Jamerson's desire is to reach many people with her songs. Surrounded by a strong team and by backing from her fans, she is sure to reach this goal. She is humbled by the support she has already received, and is grateful to everyone who shares this post and supports her campaign.
