Contemporary Native American Concert 

Friday, July 23

This concert is being presented at the Performing Arts Center as a part of the weekend Pow Wow. 

Michael Bucher is a Cherokee singer-songwriter who was taught from the beginning of his memory the stories, language and legends of his people. Michael grew up in a multi-racial neighborhood on the south side of Chicago. In all the diversity, his large family did what they could to ensure that they didn't become an invisible Indian. 

His Cherokee ancestors go back to the Trail of Tears and earlier. Prior to the forced removal many Cherokees moved to S.E. Missouri and N.E. Arkansas. Mike and his sisters and brother are only the second generation not to be born in S.E. Missouri. They have been told the stories passed down from generation to generation and encouraged to stay close to their culture. 

He is reminded by his mother and great uncle, and by the words of his grandmother and great aunt who have walked on, not to forget the stories and struggles of his people and all Indigenous people. 

From these stories come the basis of his music and songs along with his own life experiences. As part of those experiences, Mike has lived in many places through his life, but now lives in the great northwoods of northwest Wisconsin. He stays close to his family, friends, to the stories, and to his beliefs." There are no coincidences, everything is for a reason."

A Native American Music Awards nominee in 2007, Michael Bucher has filmed his latest music video, "Don't Forget About Me," at the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary of Hot Springs. His songs are intended to teach, heal and bring awareness to everyone who hears them. He sings about topics that are important to him and others in Indian Country. From the desecration of sacred sites, to Cherokee legends, to the sometimes seemingly Invisible Indian, there's a passionate quality throughout.

With strong vocals and heartfelt lyrics, his music is a blend of acoustic guitar, native and a contemporary drum, flute, shakers, rattles, bass and electric guitars, and cuts a swath through native folk, blues and rock.