In need of a weekend of inspiration, culinary excellence, and good vibes? Running September 7 to 9, Vancouver’s inaugural SKOOKUM Festival promises a weekend of contemporary music, food, and art. With well-known acts showcasing fan favourites and emerging gems debuting their work, a bevy of talented artists is sure to wow crowds. From coast to coast, and around the world, SKOOKUM brings together performers from all over for a diverse taste of music. Spend the weekend along Vancouver’s shoreline and enjoy the blended delights of SKOOKUM.
Ta’Kaiya Blaney
Ta’Kaiya Blaney is a young Indigenous performer from TLa’Amin First Nation who grew up along the shores of the Salish Sea in BC. Her artistry extends from her powerful voice and activist spirit, as represented in her diverse work. She has performed around the world, and her music has been featured in TV and film. Visit her website to find out more about this powerhouse.
Haley Blais
Starting in Vancouver, Haley Blais began her career as a solo folk artist. She is known for her ability to beautifully convey the human experience through song and shatter the wall between artist and audience. Blais has built up a huge online following, which propelled her into the release of her debut EP Late Bloomer and a successful tour. Check out her website to see more.
Missy D
Beginning at age 11, Missy D has perfected her craft of blending various styles of old school, hip hop, rap, and R&B with a bilingual twist. “Hailing from the thousands of hills of Rwanda to the Drogba city of Cote d’Ivoire and the Victoria Falls of Zimbabwe, she represents a blend of African cultures in her life-force and in her music.” Now, she loves to represent Vancouver while inspiring others and celebrating resilience. Find out more about Missy D here.
Crystal Shawanda
Crystal Shawanda is a Juno Award-winning singer/songwriter who has seamlessly created a space for a unique country and blues sound. Throughout her journey in music, Shawanda has fought back against stereotypes and gracefully paved her own way. Now, her soulful, rootsy sound has gained worthy attention and made her a well respected artist. See more about her here.
Buffy Sainte-Marie
Buffy Sainte-Marie is a world-renowned award-winning recording artist, activist, educator, and visual artist. Her 2017 album entitled Medicine Songs won her well-deserved attention and tackled issues such as the environment, alternative conflict resolution, Indigenous realities, and greed. “Part rhythmic healing, part trumpeting wakeup call, Medicine Songs is the soundtrack for the resistance.” Check out Buffy Sainte-Marie here.
A self-declared witch, Tayvie spends her time with all things magic. She loves a good sunset, iced coffee, and every known essential oil. Catch her chilling with her black-cat sidekick, Shadow, and hiding by the ocean. Look for her bold eyebrows and vintage style, and you’re bound to find her.
