Episode 207: Jim Felix Interview

Brotha Hodge sits with Jim Felix one of the pioneers in Native American Christian and Gospel Music. In this interview, Jim Felix discusses his latest album, White Horse, which features songs by local artists like Steve Williams, Johnny Curtis, and Jay Cummings (0:37-0:46). The album was recorded in three days in Poplar, Montana, on the Fort Kipp reservation (0:58-1:09).He shares details about his musical journey, including his first album, City of Gold, recorded in 1985(1:27-1:41), and his collaboration with Tom B, who has worked with Motown artists (3:05-3:16). Jim Felix also talks about his involvement with the Native American Music Awards (3:46-3:59).Beyond music, Felix reflects on his time as a band counselor from 1995 to 1999, describing the challenges of balancing church and political life and his greatest accomplishment of serving his people (4:04-5:20). He highlights the struggles faced by his community in Sturgeon Lake, such as housing issues, eroding treaty rights, and the rise of drugs (6:37-8:11). He also shares insights into native foods like bannock and moose meat (8:29-9:16) and recommends his albumContagious to new listeners, noting its popularity on radio stations (9:58-10:24). Felix mentions his album Jewels, dedicated to his daughter, which features rap artists like Fresh IE and SLG Crew (12:53-14:00).Towards the end of the interview, Jim Felix discusses his upcoming engagements, including a performance at the Seven Mile Miracle Church in White River (22:15-22:17), and expresses his appreciation for the support he receives in the States (18:10-18:24). He emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and encouraging people in their faith (35:46-36:24).He also touches on the decline of CD sales and the shift towards digital music platforms (24:09-25:13), and encourages listeners to connect with him on Facebook for his new album (20:51-21:08).