Ernest Monias (born February 18, 1949) is a Cree recording artist from Manitoba, Canada.[1] An important figure in Canadian Indigenous music, Monias has been nicknamed the "Elvis of the North".[2]

Ernest Monias
Born (1949-02-18) February 18, 1949 (age 75)
Cross Lake First Nation, Manitoba
GenresRock music, Country rock
Occupation(s)Singer, songwriter
Years active1979–present
LabelsSunshine Records

Early life

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Monias was born in Cross Lake First Nation and moved to Wabowden, Manitoba at the age of 4.[1] He attended a residential school in Portage La Prairie, Manitoba.[1]

Music career

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Monias released his first album in 1979, after being discovered by Ray St. Germain.[1] The album Original Recordings included his most popular song "If I Wanted You Girl" and was followed by 21 more albums.[1] Monias received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Indigenous Music Awards.[3] He was elected into the Manitoba Aboriginal Music Hall of Fame in 2005.[4]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e Leonard Monkman (2020). "From residential school to meme king". CBC.ca. Retrieved February 15, 2024.
  2. ^ "Honouring Elvis of the North". Winnipeg Free Press. Retrieved February 15, 2024.
  3. ^ "Musician Ernest Monias to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award". The Pas Online. Retrieved February 15, 2024.
  4. ^ "Honouring Elvis of the North". Winnipeg Free Press. Retrieved February 15, 2024.