Official Press Release: This week, Winnipeg-based, Indigenous singer-songwriter Ila Barker released the music video for her new emotional new single “25.”
Directed by award-winning Indigenous film director Patrick Shannon (Quanah Style, Carsen Gray) the video for “25” was shot in beautiful Cabo, Mexico, a destination that is close to Ila’s heart as a safe haven for emotional healing. In the video, Ila explores Cabo’s stunning desert terrain, reflecting on the lessons she learned from leaving an abusive relationship.
“There are many times in life where you can feel totally helpless like someone has their claws dug deep into you,” says Ila. “This song is a moment to take back your power.”
With a soulful voice and lyrics that washes over the minds and hearts of audiences like waves, Ila is a force to be reckoned with. This Canadian folk-soul artist takes listeners on an introspective journey, inviting them to connect deeply with their own emotions.
Ila has taken the stage at the Canadian Music Week, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Regina Folk Festival, North By Northeast, sākihiwē festival, and opened for Jeremy Dutcher’s sold-out performance at the Indian River Festival in PEI. After the release of her self-titled debut album, Ila took time to mindfully refine her artistry, embarking on a creative evolution, and emerging with a self-determined sound. Her forthcoming album is in honour of her metamorphosis into the musical powerhouse she is today and a promise that the tide will turn.
In addition to creating and performing music and as an act of reciprocity, Ila mentors emerging Indigenous artists in AIRsessions, her self-curated music workshop series.