Heartfelt Condolences On Passing Of Curtis ‘Shingoose’ Jonnie

Roseau River First Nation Mourns Loss of True Trailblazer

Our most sincere sympathies are extended to the family and friends of music legend and trailblazer, Curtis ‘Shingoose’ Jonnie on January 12, 2021.

Born in 1946, Jonnie was adopted by a family in Steinbach as part of the 60’s scoop.  His musical career, which took him all over the world, began in his teens and allowed him to perform with many iconic rock and blues-based artists.

“Curtis famously worked with the Rolling Stones, Beatles, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix among others,” said Treaty 1 Nation Government spokesperson, Chief Dennis Meeches. “This alone is a testament to his creativity and global reputation.”

As his career progressed, Curtis Jonnie co-founded Native Multimedia Productions, later re-titled First Nations Magazine, became a correspondent for CTV’s Canada AM (on indigenous issues) and co-produced ground-breaking television specials.  In 1994, Curtis was a chair for the Juno awards where he, alongside Buffy Sainte-Marie and Elaine Bomberry, created the Aboriginal award category.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, the community of Roseau River and his international circles of friends in the music industry and beyond,” Chief Meeches concluded.