Marc Meriläinen (Nadjiwan)

Born in Lynn Lake, Manitoba and raised in Thunder Bay, Marc Meriläinen’s heritage can be traced to the Chippewas of Nawash, Cape Croker. Transforming the sound and image of Indigenous music has been one of Marc Meriläinen’s goals from the very beginning. His prodigious output has been recognized in many corners, including the Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards, the Native American Music Awards, the Indigenous Music Awards, and Toronto’s Dora Mavor Moore Awards for the Performing Arts, along with invitations to perform at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and the 2015 Pan-Am Games in Toronto.

From his early days as creator and performer of the multi-award nominated contemporary Indigenous rock project NADJIWAN to producing the next wave of Indigenous musicians, Marc has worked with numerous artists to help launch and further their career development.  In addition to writing and producing acts, Marc has also promoted and produced various live shows and events, including Planet IndigenUs at Harbourfront Centre and the Original People, Original Songs concert series.