'We Are the Halluci Nation' | A Tribe Called Red

A Tribe Called Red creates music that acts as a gateway into urban, contemporary indigenous culture, celebrating all of its layers and complexity. In a set that blends traditional powwow drums and vocals with hip-hop and electronic music, the DJ collective tells stories of the First Nations in beats and images -- expanding on the concept of the "Halluci Nation," inspired by the poet, musician and activist John Trudell.

The TED Talks channel features the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes (or less). Look for talks on Technology, Entertainment and Design -- plus science, business, global issues, the arts and more.

[Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

Over 500 treaties were made with American Indian tribes, primarily for land cessations, but 500 treaties were also broken, changed or nullified when it served the government's interests.
Missing and murdered Indigenous women is an issue affecting Indigenous people in Canada and the United States, including the First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Native American communities. It has been described as a Canadian national crisis.

[karendalsadik]

Their work continues to surpass their previous work. They have made the most of Trudell's work. This song has been healing for me. It has changed my life made me strive to return to who I am.

[Zahlenteufel]

Did not expect this here but I'm pleasantly surprised.

[lorna]

I had the opportunity to see them a few weeks ago in a local performing arts theater and they were AMAZING. Every time I hear their music something has changed or evolved and it always sounds great. I love how they bring many unique and pleasing sounds together, I cant even imagine how much dedication, practice, skill and talent they have to make the music they do with such variation

[thebrittneyrae]

Probably my favorite thing on the channel. There are thousands of years of native history, and plenty of culture-related current topics to be spoken about. TED would definitely need to start a whole playlist and that would just be the tip of the iceburg! This particular set can encourage people to wonder what some of the metaphors mean, so they can start their own research. For example, when I hear "the compound was on fire, " my heart sinks as I recall what happened when the Pequots were massacred in the late 1630's. (Their "compound" was set on fire during the attack.) I'm not sure of that's exactly what they are inferring to, but that's where my mind goes. And if you have 0 background knowledge even just hearing the traditional sounds and songs blended into the spoken word is a good way to start! Music is a big part of Indigenous culture for ceremony and celebration. 💜💛💜💛

[brendarua]

I did not know of this. They leave me with goosebumps and wanting more. Thank you for sharing!

[thejogayogafiles]

This is heart-touchingly phenomenal. Indian is a way of life, not a color of skin. Soon, "pretending-to-be-defeated" will be no more.
Metakuye oyasin.

[ellisk]

Damn the section of throat singing was amazing! All of this is just super cool.

[cherylovers]

I listen to Electric Pow Pow every day. So much love, respect and gratitude to a Tribe Called Red..

[thegrinch]

So amazing to see A Tribe Called Red on Ted!!! Good for them!! I hope their message keeps reaching and inspiring as many people as possible

[cheeseisgreat]

Cue the angry commenters who don't know what the E in TED stands

[Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

Upon suffering beyond suffering:

The Red Nation shall rise again and it shall be a blessing for a sick world; a world filled with broken promises, selfishness and separations; a world longing for light again.

I see a time of Seven Generations when all the colors of mankind will gather under the Sacred Tree of Life and the whole Earth will become one circle again.

In that day, there will be those among the Lakota who will carry knowledge and understanding of unity among all living things and the young white ones will come to those of my people and ask for this wisdom.

I salute the light within your eyes where the whole Universe dwells. For when you are at that center within you and I am that place within me, we shall be one.

- Crazy Horse, Oglala Lakota Sioux (circa 1840-1877)

[obonneibennetto]

Very cool. This is music, movement, history, poetry. Just awesome. TED has been making some great music/dance picks lately.

[ghostinameatsuit]

Incredible concert, incredible group, incredible music. 👍

[dillpickleprongles]

OMG! I love a Tribe Called Red. I don't think everyone commenting negatively understand what Ted Talks are - and this _should_ teach you things. If you let yourself think.
Can you not appreciate the heart in this? The _soul_?

[AlexanderJWF]

I know that this isn't exactly their usual fare, I'm so glad one of my favorite artists made it on here! Such talent and dedication showing through the deeper meaning and purpose.
Thank you Ted!

[NeonEstrella]

A Tribe Called Red is amazing... Their work is definitely worth sharing :)

[Zahlenteufel]

Have people not noticed that TED has a couple of musical acts every time?

[sonu-wukq]

Such a commendable work representing a unique culture

[esmeraldapena]

Soo worth seeing them perform !!! Saw them 5xs at different times.