Welcome to Indigenous in the News with Larry K and Gary Wilcox. On today's show, we’re honored to bring you one of the last interviews recorded with the late Tom Bee this past summer. It was a privilege to have him on the show and learn about his remarkable journey—from founding the Native band XIT, to initially managing the band before stepping into the role of lead singer. XIT made history as the first Native American band to sign with a major record label, and Tom’s extraordinary career later earned him two Grammy Awards. Tom’s life spanned 82 remarkable years, during which he touched the hearts of many with his kindness, wisdom, and love. A man of many talents and passions, he approached everything with a tireless work ethic and an unwavering dedication to excellence.

Tom was born on November 8, 1941, in Gallup, New Mexico, and who passed away on July 25, 2024, in Albuquerque, was a true legend. It was an honor to have him as a guest on my music show, Indigenous in Music, this past June. I’m grateful to share our interview with all of you.

Some of his numerous achievements include:
1) Winning two Grammy Awards.
2) Writing the song "(We've Got) Blue Skies" recorded by Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 which appeared on the worldwide hit album "Maybe tomorrow."
3) Co-producing and writing the song "Joyful Jukebox Music" for the Jackson 5.
4) Singing and writing the backing vocals for the song "Just My Soul Responding" for Smokey Robinson on his first solo album "Smokey."
5) Obtaining a writer, artist, and producer contract with Motown records which led to the internationally acclaimed albums "Plight of the Redman" and Silent Warrior" by Xit.
6) Writing the song "Red Hot," recorded by Taka Boom (sister of Chaka Khan) a top Billboard Disco Dance Chart hit.
7) Writing the song "Don't Be Two Faced," recorded by the top selling rockabilly artist Shakin' Stevens for his highly successful album "the Bop Won't Stop."
8) Working with legendary Producer Gary S. Paxton (Alley Oop by the Hollywood Argyles, Monster Mash by Bobby Boris Pickett, and Cherish by the Association).
9) Receiving the "Eagle Spirit Award" from the America Film Institute in San Francisco.
10) Receiving the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the First Americans in the Arts in Beverly Hills.
11) Receiving the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from Four Directions Entertainment in New York.
12) Being the recipient of the "Will Sampson Award" from the First Americans in the Arts.
13) Winning the "Producer of the Year Award" at the First Annual "Native American Music Awards" (NAMMY's).
14) Receiving of the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the "Native American Music Awards" (NAMMY's).
15) Having July 27, 2002 being proclaimed "Tom Bee Day" by Mayor Martin Chavez in recognition of Tom's accomplishments within the music industry as a recording artist, songwriter, record producer and multi-award winner.
16) Persuading NARAS to recognize the musical contributions of Native Americans by establishing a Native America category at the Grammy Awards.
17) Being CEO and founder of SOAR (Sound of America Records)
As we say goodbye to Tom, we take comfort in the memories he shared with us. He will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire us.

Welcome to Indgenous in the News, on todays show we’re excited to welcome Mr. Aku RoDriguez from the Mescalero Apache Nation. Aku is a talented producer, and entrepreneur. We’ll dive into his journey and how it all started and his latest projects, and explore what it takes to master aerial photography and videography from air, land, and sea. His company, MRoD Drones, specializes in delivering stunning visuals from every angle. You can visit him at www.sobeitfilms.com and contact him directly at sobiitfilms@gmail.com

BIOGRAPHY

• Their Last Ride (Official Trailer)
• Lipan Apache Cemetery in Presidio TX
• National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum
• Buffalo Soldiers of West Texas
• Dances with Sacred Ground (Official Trailer)
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Being of Native American and Zapotec heritage RoDriguez was taught and inspired by the traditions of his culture. While in film school at T.C.C. North East College, he started his career working as a production assistant and line-producer for commercials and independent film companies, where he learned the intricacies of feature film production from some of the most skilled and talented technicians in the industry.

It is also here where RoDriguez began working as a actor and Producer for commercials and independent films. He then went on to acting on indie film, “The Prodigy.” in 2005, “Walker Texas Ranger” TV series in 2006 and indie film “Black Nile” in 2006, where he was casted in indie film, “The Blue Jay.” 2007.

Join us every week from Two Buffalo Studios in Bradenton, Florida, as we bring you the latest updates on issues that matter to us all, from the Shakers to the Makers across Indian Country. Hosted by Larry K. from the Ho-Chunk Nation and his co-host Gary Wilcox from the Powatan Nation. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to me at larry@indigenousinmusic.com or visit www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/indigenous-in-the-news for all the details. If you have a story and would like to share it, contact us.

Welcome to Indigenous in the News. On todays show we welcome from the Pawnee Tribe, Mr. Lil Mike and Mr. Funny Bone. Together they form the Native Rapping Duo. They are Singers, actors and entrepreneurs. Today we get a chance to meet them and hear all about their journey and what it took to get there. They stay real busy, they had roles on the FX Series “Reservation Dogs.” And they’ll talk about their new album “Vibin.” You can find all all about them on the web at www.mikebonemedia.com. This and more along with National Native News and Antonia Gonazles.

Emmy nominated duo LiL Mike & Funny Bone are multi-award winning Native American Recording Artists/Actors as seen on Reservation Dogs, America's Got Talent & more! Their newest album "VIBIN" has been released to the world on all streaming platforms. Together they're known as "MIKE BONE" Indigenous HipHop duo born & raised in Oklahoma City, from the Pawnee & Choctaw Nation. MIKE & BONE are considered to be legends in the game with 27+ years under their belt.

Using positive lyrics & not following the typical rap scene, as one of their songs says, it's "More Than Music". Offered multiple record deals they've chosen to stay independent to maintain their integrity, which is expressed in their song "Hold Me Back". They've devoted their lives to entertaining & inspiring, performing at venues of all kinds, from Arena's, to Public Schools & everything in-between.

Raised by a single mother of 5 kids their hustle has brought them from hood famous to global stardom, climbing the charts & making a difference. Even when opening for other artists they steal the show everywhere they go. More than just recording artists, MIKE BONE also does speaking engagements on all kinds of topics from bullying, drug & alcohol prevention, to following your dreams, with a splash of comedy when needed.Get Streaming Links, Free Downloads, Merch & More at: MikeBoneMedia.comYou can learn their story in the award winning documentary "Looked Over but Never Overlooked" on youtube. With tons of content on youtube their channel includes behind-the-scenes footage, music videos, TV interviews & more. You just might become a subscriber to see what pops up next. From homelessness, to gang violence & discrimination, they've maintained their faith in GOD & have become performance icons.

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new News and Entertainment podcast, Indigenous in the News. Join us every week from Two Buffalo Studios in Bradenton, Florida, as we bring you the latest updates on issues that matter to us all, from the Shakers to the Makers across Indian Country. Hosted by Larry K. from the Ho-Chunk Nation and his co-host Gary Wilcox from the Powatan Nation. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to me at larry@indigenousinmusic.com or visit www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/indigenous-in-the-news for all the details. If you have a story and would like to share it, contact us.