Overview
The Snotty Nose Rez Kids, a hip-hop duo from the Haisla Nation, use their music to blend Indigenous identity, humor, and social commentary. Their creative work has achieved critical acclaim, media placements, and continues to advocate for Indigenous culture and issues.
Background and Artistic Influences
- Quinton "Yung Trybez" Nyce and Darren "Young D" Metz grew up together in Kitimat, British Columbia, inspired by hip-hop legends like Eminem, Biggie, and Tupac.
- They aim to empower through music by blending Indigenous issues, offbeat humor, and pop culture references.
- Metz credits Eminem’s wit as a key inspiration for their lyrical style.
Achievements and Recognition
- Since 2016, SNRK has built a following with tracks discussing Indigenous identity, like "The Warriors," "Can't Remember My Name," "The Resistance," and "Boujee Natives."
- Their album "Trapline" was shortlisted for the 2019 Polaris Music Prize.
- They won Indigenous Artist of the Year and Rap & Hip Hop Artist of the Year at the Western Canadian Music Awards.
- Performed at the Virtual Santa Fe Indian Market finale.
- Their music features in TV series "Trickster" and the film "Monkey Beach," where they also made their acting debut.
Recent Projects and Releases
- Released "Born Deadly" EP in April; later followed by "Where We At," a collaboration with Drezus, including an animated video tribute to Nyce’s late dog, Chauncey.
- Despite pandemic challenges, they are planning a new album with fresh concepts and sounds.
Themes in Music and Visuals
- The "Boujee Natives" video satirically celebrates cultural wealth and community connections, rather than material luxury.
- Indigenous terms and pop culture references are layered throughout their work, providing both education and representation.
- The term "neechie," meaning "my friend" in Ojibwe, is used as slang for First Nations people in their lyrics.
Advocacy and Social Commentary
- "The Warriors" addresses water protection, referencing events like Standing Rock and Tiny House Warriors.
- Lyrics draw from personal memories and Indigenous traditions related to water, emphasizing purification and connection to heritage.
Cultural Impact
- SNRK’s music has helped raise awareness about Indigenous issues and continues to inspire pride and cultural resilience within their community and beyond.