#native singer

[iloveancestry]

FOR THOSE WHO DON'T KNOW! "To reaffirm the statement on the choosing of my identity, I come from two beautiful cultures which I have embraced, bridged, balanced, and identify with. I am proud to be who I am as a Dine' (Navajo) and Nahilii (African American) woman. Hozho', ?, & blessings..." -Radmilla Cody Radmilla Cody is a Navajo/African American award-winning singer, and anti-domestic violence activist who was the 46th Miss Navajo from 1997 to 1998. As she was the first and thus far only Miss Navajo partially of African-American heritage, her nomination sparked considerable debate over Navajo identity.

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"Who is Afraid of Black Indians ?"

[losangelesrain]

Jhené Aiko. The singer who is heard on the Drake single “From TIme” and J. Cole’s “Sparks Will Fly” apparently is part Native along with Japanese and African American. Her father is reported as saying he is Navajo, Yaqui, Choctaw and Cherokee. Quite a blend. She is super beautiful nonetheless, and has quite an enchanting voice. Hurray for mixed chicks!

[nativemaxdrumbeat]

NMD'S ROOKIE ON THE RISE: MARIAH AKA RIAH

Navajo DJ Jonathan Begay, aka Coffe Break, isn't the only talented individual to come out of Page, AZ. Native singer and songwriter Riah decided to take her smooth, soulful chops up a notch and pursued a singing career. After discovering she had the ability to sing when she was 17, Riah collaborated with local artists and producers, including Folded Arms Productions, Fullscale Productions, Wicked Entertainment, Blest-1, Chief Squad, Benz, Jermz and more. Riah has been recording and performing since mid-2010 and has even headlined shows and opened for well named acts, such as Talib Kweli. 

With the release of her first pre-album, Believe, Riah continues to work on her first full album, debuting this fall. Within the next few months, Riah will be shooting her first official music video. 

This rookie on the rise surely captured our attention the moment we listened to one of her most liked singles, "In The Middle" on Reverbnation. Her soft yet powerful voice makes it hard to believe she only started singing some four years ago. Riah also strives to be a role model and continues to inspire her fans, youth and communities far and wide. We can't wait for Riah's first full album to debut later on this year. 

Check out Riah's music at http://www.reverbnation.com/tinyriah.