Indigenous Singer-Songwriter Carsen Gray Announces New Haida Gwaii Gospel Album ‘Praise Sah’Laana’
October 4, 2024 BY Emma Orland
Today, Canadian Indigenous singer-songwriter Carsen Gray is proud to announce her new gospel album Praise Sah’Laana, sung in her native Haida language. Carsen hopes to introduce listeners to the culture of the Haida people who have lived on the island of Haida Gwai off the coast of British Columbia for centuries. She hopes to continue in the traditions passed on by her ancestors and chart a new path for future generations. Today, she shares “This Little Light.” The song blends the timeless message of “This Little Light of Mine” with the beauty of her traditional language. Carsen aims to honor her heritage, uplift her nation, and reinforce her strong Christian roots through music. In ‘This Little Light,” Gray’s aspiration is to kindle a reminder to not forget that the light inside us shines as a beacon through the darkness. Listen to “This Little Light” on all digital retailers (here).
“I’m excited to introduce ‘Praise Sah’Laana,’ my forthcoming Haida gospel album that reconnects us with the profound spiritual heritage of the Haida people,” Carsen explains. “This album emerges from my family’s deep-rooted ties to Christianity, a legacy that stretches back through generations. These connections—often overlooked—are pivotal to our identity. Inspired by the unwavering faith of our beloved elders, who have carried these beliefs with dignity and strength, “Praise Sah’Laana” honors a rich history that shapes our existence and resilience. Each track celebrates the divine gift of music, reflecting the strength and talent of our people—evident in our songs, dances, and craftsmanship.
I invite you to journey through the melodies and rhythms of these classic hymns, entwined with our traditional language, showcasing how our faith continues to weave through our cultural narrative. ‘Praise Sah’Laana’ is more than an album; it’s my tribute to the resilience and beauty of Haida identity, affirming that we are deeply blessed, forever strong, and never lost in our heritage.”
LISTEN TO CARSEN GRAY “THIS LITTLE LIGHT” HERE:
https://carsengray.ffm.to/thislittlelight
50 miles off the coast of mainland British Columbia, you’ll find Haida Gwaii. This collection of islands serves as home to just shy of 5,000 residents who all contribute to its quiet magic. Seemingly removed from the rest of the world yet intrinsically connected to its rawest essence, Carsen Gray calls this place home.
Born of Haida Indigenous and mixed descent, the award-winning singer and songwriter commutes the peace of her surroundings into a soulful sound spiked with pop universality and a twist of local spirit. After making waves across Canada, she introduced herself to the world on her 2022 debut EP, Each Moment [Nettwerk]. Turning heads, Carsen’s 2017 self-titled debut earned “Best New Artist” at SiriusXM’s Indigenous Music Awards, while 2018’s “Wanna See You” with JUNO Award-nominated DJ Shub received “Best Radio Single.” Along the way, she performed on the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and at JunoFest. In 2020, her single “Sah ‘Laana” and its intimate accompanying music video caught the attention of Nettwerk Music Group, and she signed to the label.
Throughout 2021, she assembled Each Moment EP with her husband, primary collaborator, and producer Joey Stylez. After their kids fell asleep, they often recorded late into the night. “The driving force is gratitude,” she explains. “At this point in my life, I’m in a really good place.” In 2022, Carsen followed Each Moment with the Notes to Self EP, a six-song collection that touches on mental health and self-love through lush acoustics, sparse arrangements, and angelic vocals. 2023 saw a milestone release for Carsen as she unveiled her album Misadventures, a culmination of her sound, documenting the past two years of her musical journey. “Behind every major victory, there are tales of heartbreak, loss, and failure. But, in many instances, those misadventures are the perfect storm of what’s needed to lead you to happier times and your successes. Trust that God had a plan for you and don’t get discouraged.”
Now, in 2024, Carsen is excited to release a new gospel album sung in her native Haida language.
CARSEN GRAY IN THE PRESS…
“Her soulful voice crosses the genres of R&B, Pop and Folk—she’s proven that she isn’t limiting herself into any specific box. Her musical talents are tied together with the spirit of her culture and community…”
— COMPLEX
“…just unaffected talent and refreshing earnestness… the best soul-rebooting forest bathing with similarly healing musical accompaniment…”
— Cowboys & Indians Magazine
“Dreamy with echoes, this song creates sounds and a message that’ll make you believe could reach someone who has departed from this earth. Sung with gratitude, lovely and cathartic.”
– Americana Highways
“There are some artists in the world that can just soothe you, need it be through their voice, their music or a combination of both. Carsen Gray is one such artist.”
— PopWrapped
“…uplifting and organic songwriting style…”
— Dusty Organ
Tracklist:
1. The Lord’s Prayer
2. Doxology
3. Holy Holy Holy
4. Whole World in His Hands
5. Away In a Manger
6. This Little Light
7. Amazing Grace (Alternate Version)
8. Psalm 23
