Southeast Saskatchewan artists are making waves on the provincial music scene, with three local acts earning nominations at the 2025 Sask Music Awards. Last Birds, Teagan Littlechief, and Winsome Kind represent a diverse range of musical styles, from intimate folk harmonies to country rock and uplifting acoustic melodies. Each artist brings a unique perspective to their craft while showcasing the rich talent found in small-town Saskatchewan.
With nominations spanning categories such as Album of the Year, Spiritual or Insperational Artist of the Year, Country Artist of the Year, and more, these musicians reflect the heart of Saskatchewan’s music scene. We spoke to the nominees about their artistry, the impact of their nominations, and the role of community support in their success.
Last Birds: Intimate Harmonies Rooted in Storytelling
Lindsay Arnold and Mike Davis, the duo behind Last Birds, have carved out a distinct space in the folk music world with their mesmerizing harmonies and intimate acoustic sound. Focusing on storytelling inspired by small-town life and local history, the pair creates music that feels deeply connected to southeast Saskatchewan.
"Our sound has been described as mesmerizing and intimate," Arnold explains. "We really like to do a lot of storytelling in our music, basing our song themes on local lore and what it's like to live in southeast Saskatchewan."
This deep connection to their community is reflected in the unwavering support they receive from fans in their hometown of North Portal. "We thrive on local support," Arnold shares. "People encourage us on social media, at the post office, or even at local potluck dinners. That support really means a lot to us."
Their dedication to their craft has led to two Sask Music Award nominations: Roots or Folk Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for Endless Turn of Day Into Night. On their nomination for Roots or Folk Artist of the Year, Arnold reflects, "It's always an honour to be nominated for an award, especially in Saskatchewan. There are so many great folk and roots artists here. Seeing our name among artists we admire and consider friends really means a lot to us."
The creation of Endless Turn of Day Into Night was a labour of love for the duo. "We wanted it to be mostly just Mike and I—two voices, two guitars—and to create a really intimate acoustic sound," says Arnold. Working with Estevan’s Jeff Michel at his recording studio, the pair was able to bring their vision to life. "Jeff was amazing to work with and really helped us create the sound we were looking for."
Arnold encourages fans to engage with the Sask Music Awards and support local artists. "It really means a lot for people to engage—whether it’s through voting, listening to the music, or attending the awards. Without that support, you could lose something as special as this award show."
Looking ahead, Last Birds have their sights set on the future. They recently completed a songwriting project and are gearing up to record their next album. Additionally, they’ll be performing in Manitoba later this month, with plans for a tour in the UK this May.
Teagan Littlechief: A Voice of Resilience and Connection
For over 20 years, Teagan Littlechief has been captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals and heartfelt lyrics, blending traditional country music with a rock edge. But her journey hasn’t been without challenges—challenges that have shaped her music and her mission as an artist.
“I didn’t get into country music until I was around 13,” Littlechief shares. “Even then, I always wanted to incorporate a bit of a rock vibe into my sound, but I stay true to the country genre. These days, I focus more on emotions and personal experiences—heartbreak, sobriety, mending relationships, and finding joy in life.”
Sobriety, in particular, is a theme that resonates deeply in her music. After years of struggling with addiction, Littlechief made the life-changing decision to enter rehab in 2017. “It wasn’t my first attempt, but that year, I committed. Now, I’ve been sober for over seven years,” she says.
The impact of that journey is woven into her songwriting. “Music has been my outlet,” she explains. “It helps me process emotions and move forward. I’ve written songs—both solo and with others—that reflect those challenges and victories. I hope they can inspire others the way music has inspired me.”
Growing up on a reservation, Littlechief draws strength from her roots and her community’s unwavering support. “I chose this lifestyle, and having the encouragement of my community means everything,” she says. “It’s what keeps me going, not just in music but in learning more about the industry so I can share that knowledge with others back home.”
Collaborating with other artists and performing across Saskatchewan has also been a transformative experience. “It took me a while to find a band that truly fit with me musically, but now I have an amazing group,” she says. “I’ve also loved collaborating with musicians from different genres—country, contemporary, rap. Mixing styles brings out parts of myself I didn’t know existed, and it’s so fulfilling to bring that energy to the stage.”
This year, Littlechief is nominated for two Sask Music Awards: Country Artist of the Year and Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year. “It’s such an honour,” she says. “Seeing my name alongside so many talented artists is incredible. Just making it to the final ballot is an accomplishment, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity.”
From her raw, emotional storytelling to her vibrant presence on stage, Littlechief’s music continues to inspire resilience and pride in her listeners—both within and beyond her community.
Winsome Kind: A Journey of Heartfelt Harmony
Winsome Kind, the husband-and-wife duo of Scott and Leora, have crafted a unique musical style inspired by their shared journey through life. Originally meeting as musical theatre performers, they quickly discovered a natural connection through their harmonies and began creating music together. Over the past decade, their experiences—raising a family, travelling extensively, and embracing new adventures—have deeply influenced their sound and songwriting.
“Singing harmonies together came so easily—it was second nature,” shared Leora. Scott added that while the songwriting process took more effort to refine, it has always been a fun and collaborative journey for the two. Their songs often begin as poetry or guitar riffs, with the inspiration coming organically from their lives.
Their heartfelt approach resonates with a diverse audience. “Our mission is to create heart-centred music—music that makes people feel good in their bodies,” said Leora. Winsome Kind’s performances have connected with families, kids, and fans of all ages at festivals such as Music and Sky in Northern California.
This year, they’ve embraced a new musical direction, crafting songs of mantras and affirmations in 432 Hertz—a frequency believed to promote healing and connection. Their decision to submit for the Inspirational category at the Sask Music Awards reflects this shift, a move that resulted in a nomination.
Their impact extends beyond music creation. Since moving to Alameda, the couple has embraced small-town life, contributing to the local community through performances, fundraisers, and workshops. They’ve even opened a home studio where Scott records and produces their music, along with teaching guitar and voice lessons.
“We’ve been really embraced by this little corner of Saskatchewan,” said Scott. Leora agreed, adding, “There’s such a need for creativity here, and we love being part of that.”
With a blend of talent, heartfelt purpose, and community spirit, Winsome Kind is creating music that uplifts and inspires while building lasting connections wherever they go.
As these talented artists continue to make waves in the Saskatchewan music scene, they now look ahead to the upcoming Saskatchewan Music Awards, where their hard work and dedication will be recognized. Public voting for Album of the Year is open now and will remain open until 10:00 PM CST on January 31, 2025. Be sure to cast your vote and show your support for these incredible musicians and their albums.
The 2025 Saskatchewan Music Awards ceremony will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Regina Performing Arts Centre, where the best of Saskatchewan’s music community will be celebrated. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!