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Mary's Newsletter

MARY "FIRST LADY OF THE FLUTE"

Two-Time GRAMMY Winner and EMMY Nominee Mary Youngblood, is the first Native American woman to have received a Grammy Award for "Best Native American Music Album" and the first Native American person to have won two Grammy's which makes Mary one of the premiere Native American musicians in the country. Winner of numerous awards, Mary garnered the 2002 Grammy for Beneath the Raven Moon and the 2006 Grammy for Dance with the Wind. 

When Mary performs, it takes only a moment to acknowledge the profound spirituality of the sacred Native American flute and its historical courtship and wooing attributes. Her haunting music is much more than a song... it's liquid poetry, a prayer. Mary takes little credit for the intense emotions people feel when they listen to her music.

PROFESSIONAL AWARDS 
AND NOMINATIONS

New ~ 2008 "Sacred Place": A Mary Youngblood Collection ...With rich vibrato and notes that melt into your heart, Mary Youngblood takes the artistry of Native American flute music to its highest level. Her song writing brings forth some of the sweetest original melodies ever performed on this instrument, and the collection herein showcases the most sublime.

2007: Spirit of Sacajawea: Nominated for an EMMY in the following categories;
Mary Youngblood and Jim Brock, nominated for "The Musical Score",
Emmy Award winning Producers Beverly Penninger, Alyson Young.

2006: Grammy Award ~ "Dance with the Wind", Best Native American Recording

2005: Grammy Nominee ~ "Feed The Fire", Best Native American Recording

2004: Native American Music Awards

2002: Grammy Award ~ "Beneath the Raven Moon ", Best Native American Recording

Additional Awards:

Artist of the Year

Flutist of the Year

Best Native American Recording from The Association for Independent Music (INDIE award)

2001: Nammy's

Flutist of the Year

Best Female Artist

Best Compilation for "Wolves"

Best New Age Recording for "Heart of the World"

2000: Heart of The World, won many top awards:

Best Native American Recording ~ from both AFIM and NAV Radio Awards

Best new Age Recording from both Amazon.com and Native American Music Awards

INDIE awards 2000, (The Association for Independent Music)

1999: The Offering, Flutist of the Year, NAMMY 1999

PROJECTS

Spirit of Sacajawea: This film is narrated by Tantoo Cardinal, with the original musical score by Mary Youngblood and Jim Brock. "The Spirit of Sacajawea" is an independent film by Naka Productions. Sacajawea, the only woman and the only Indian to travel with the Lewis and Clark expedition, is one of the most revered women in American history, yet her story has been romanticized and, often, misinterpreted by non-natives. 

Aleut Story: Includes powerful performances by Emmy-winner Martin Sheen and Grammy-winner Mary Youngblood and the voice talent of John O'Hurley and the late Jay Hammond, former governor of Alaska.

Into The West: "Into the West (2005)" was a made for television mini-series that aired on TNT (DreamWorks Television) for six weeks. Each episode was two hours in length. This epic film takes place in the 1800's emerging Western Territories. 
"Grandmother's Last Sunset" by Mary Youngblood.

CD Compilations

Eagle Cries - Joanne Shenandoah
All Spirit Sings - Joanne Shenandoah
Tribal Dreams - Music From Native Americans
Prayer for Peace - Native American Artists
The Prophecy of the Eagle and the Condor - Tito La Rosa
Many Blessings - A Native American Celebration
Songs of the Spirit - Vol. 2

ABOUT MARY YOUNGBLOOD

Native American Mary Youngblood, half Seminole and half Aleut, is the first woman to professionally record the Native American Flute, and the first woman to win not just one, but two Grammy Awards for "Best Native American Music Album". Youngblood has a lifetime of musicianship behind her, starting with piano lessons at age six and guitar at ten; she is also a renowned classically trained flutist.

About her second Grammy Award, Silver Wave Records said, "Mary Youngblood has always had the talent to stand out above the crowd, and with this honor she stakes her claim as the number one star of Native American music."
Native American Mary Youngblood, half Seminole and half Aleut, is the first woman to professionally record the Native American Flute, and the first woman to win not just one, but two Grammy Awards for "Best Native American Music Album". Youngblood has a lifetime of musicianship behind her, starting with piano lessons at age six and guitar at ten; she is also a renowned classically trained flutist.

About her second Grammy Award, Silver Wave Records said, "Mary Youngblood has always had the talent to stand out above the crowd, and with this honor she stakes her claim as the number one star of Native American music." As an adult, when Youngblood received her first wooden Native flute she was compelled to pursue this ancient instrument traditionally played only by men. She has been honored with numerous awards and furthers her craft and knowledge of music and her Native traditions through teaching.
As an adult, when Youngblood received her first wooden Native flute she was compelled to pursue this ancient instrument traditionally played only by men. She has been honored with numerous awards and furthers her craft and knowledge of music and her Native traditions through teaching.

Mary’s sixth album for Silver Wave Records is a compilation produced by Silver Wave's staff. Of “Sacred Place - A Mary Youngblood Collection”, Silver Wave writes, “With rich vibrato and notes that melt into your heart, Mary Youngblood takes the artistry of Native American flute music to its highest level. Her song writing brings forth some of the sweetest original melodies ever performed on this instrument, and the collection herein showcases the most sublime.   
Mary’s sixth album for Silver Wave Records is a compilation produced by Silver Wave's staff. Of “Sacred Place - A Mary Youngblood Collection”, Silver Wave writes, “With rich vibrato and notes that melt into your heart, Mary Youngblood takes the artistry of Native American flute music to its highest level. Her song writing brings forth some of the sweetest original melodies ever performed on this instrument, and the collection herein showcases the most sublime.   
Mary's fifth album “Dance with the Wind” won the 2007 Grammy Award for st Native American Music Album”.  In an interview after accepting her award, Mary told the media that "'Dance With the Wind' was created during the 2006 winter storms in Northern California.  The storms brought extremely high winds; a tall oak lost a few good sized limbs and the maples took a thrashing.  Having an incredible affinity to trees, Mary looked at them in her backyard, and thought it would be hard to be a tree right then.  But as she watched them, she noticed how the trees were almost moving with purposeful rhythm, and with something that resembled... JOY.  Mary related her own personal stormy times to the dancing trees and realized she could be like they were.  She was not going to give in to the elements either; she was going to learn to be more like the trees ... and "Dance With the Wind".
Mary's fifth album “Dance with the Wind” won the 2007 Grammy Award for st Native American Music Album”.  In an interview after accepting her award, Mary told the media that "'Dance With the Wind' was created during the 2006 winter storms in Northern California.  The storms brought extremely high winds; a tall oak lost a few good sized limbs and the maples took a thrashing.  Having an incredible affinity to trees, Mary looked at them in her backyard, and thought it would be hard to be a tree right then.  But as she watched them, she noticed how the trees were almost moving with purposeful rhythm, and with something that resembled... JOY.  Mary related her own personal stormy times to the dancing trees and realized she could be like they were.  She was not going to give in to the elements either; she was going to learn to be more like the trees ... and "Dance With the Wind".
Mary’s fourth album Feed the Fire” was nominated for the 2005 Grammy “Best Native American Music Album”. Mary’s original melodies and lyrics spanned a variety of musical styles and instruments - her wood flutes, piano, alto flute and sweet vocals. Special guest appearances by Ian Anderson (of Jethro Tull), Bill Miller, and Joanne Shenandoah, all contributed to Mary’s album full of energy, warmth and passion. The tribute song ‘Feed the Fire’ for her birth parents and dedicated to her birth mother will melt your heart. The beauty Mary has devoted to her music brings peace and tranquility to the world, captivating her listeners and surrounding them with an experience of a lifetime that they will want to share with the whole family.. 
Mary’s fourth album Feed the Fire” was nominated for the 2005 Grammy “Best Native American Music Album”. Mary’s original melodies and lyrics spanned a variety of musical styles and instruments - her wood flutes, piano, alto flute and sweet vocals. Special guest appearances by Ian Anderson (of Jethro Tull), Bill Miller, and Joanne Shenandoah, all contributed to Mary’s album full of energy, warmth and passion. The tribute song ‘Feed the Fire’ for her birth parents and dedicated to her birth mother will melt your heart. The beauty Mary has devoted to her music brings peace and tranquility to the world, captivating her listeners and surrounding them with an experience of a lifetime that they will want to share with the whole family.. 
Marys third album 'Beneath the Raven Moon', won the 2003 Grammy Award for “Best Native American Music Album”. Silver Wave records considered this a poetic concept album - the title of each track being from Mary’s thematic poetry reflecting the Human Journey. Mary’s beautiful voice harmonizing along with her many flutes debuted with the instrumentation of award winning producer Tom Wasinger. Of Mary's exemplary flute playing coupled with two of her favorite American music styles, Classical and Blues, Dirty Linen Magazine stated, "Mary Youngblood brings a fresh perspective to original melodies." In addition to Mary’s two Grammy Awards and three nominations, she was the first woman to win 'Flutist of the Year' in both 1999 and 2000. She also won 'Best Female Artist' in 2000 at the Native American Music Awards (NAMMYS).

Marys third album 'Beneath the Raven Moon', won the 2003 Grammy Award for “Best Native American Music Album”. Silver Wave records considered this a poetic concept album - the title of each track being from Mary’s thematic poetry reflecting the Human Journey. Mary’s beautiful voice harmonizing along with her many flutes debuted with the instrumentation of award winning producer Tom Wasinger. Of Mary's exemplary flute playing coupled with two of her favorite American music styles, Classical and Blues, Dirty Linen Magazine stated, "Mary Youngblood brings a fresh perspective to original melodies." In addition to Mary’s two Grammy Awards and three nominations, she was the first woman to win 'Flutist of the Year' in both 1999 and 2000. She also won 'Best Female Artist' in 2000 at the Native American Music Awards (NAMMYS).

Mary’s second album ‘Heart of the World’ found Mary weaving her flute melodies with the lush accompaniment of guitar, percussion and the exquisite voice of Joanne Shenandoah. ‘Heart of the World’ won “Best Native American Recording” by The Association for Independent Music (INDIE Award), the New Age Voice (NAV Award), and the 2000 Native American Music Awards (NAMMY) for “Best New Age Recording”. The Track ‘Cold Wind’ will blow right into your chest and thump you hard. It is amazing. This album is a treat for every listener with a broad range of musical elements that takes the audience on a journey through the captivating sounds of Mary's flutes. The breathy textures color the music with warm inviting timbre. Allow yourself to be carried away with the music with the deep, relaxing, and meditative experience of Mary Youngblood's Album Heart of the World.
Mary’s second album ‘Heart of the World’ found Mary weaving her flute melodies with the lush accompaniment of guitar, percussion and the exquisite voice of Joanne Shenandoah. ‘Heart of the World’ won “Best Native American Recording” by The Association for Independent Music (INDIE Award), the New Age Voice (NAV Award), and the 2000 Native American Music Awards (NAMMY) for “Best New Age Recording”. The Track ‘Cold Wind’ will blow right into your chest and thump you hard. It is amazing. This album is a treat for every listener with a broad range of musical elements that takes the audience on a journey through the captivating sounds of Mary's flutes. The breathy textures color the music with warm inviting timbre. Allow yourself to be carried away with the music with the deep, relaxing, and meditative experience of Mary Youngblood's Album Heart of the World.
Mary’s debut album 'The Offering' was a solo flute effort recorded live to DAT in the huge underground chamber of the Moaning Cavern in California. The natural acoustics lent an amazing echo and organic quality to the distinctly memorable melodies that Mary created with her flutes. The Monterey County Herald News wrote, "In addition to the haunting sounds of various handcrafted wooden flutes, the listener can occasionally hear the drip of water in the cavern, which adds a surreal you-are-there feeling."

Mary started piano lessons at age six, violin at eight, classical flute and guitar at ten. As an adult, when Mary received her first wooden Native flute, she was driven to pursue the mastery of this instrument so tied to her own heritage.
Mary’s debut album 'The Offering' was a solo flute effort recorded live to DAT in the huge underground chamber of the Moaning Cavern in California. The natural acoustics lent an amazing echo and organic quality to the distinctly memorable melodies that Mary created with her flutes. The Monterey County Herald News wrote, "In addition to the haunting sounds of various handcrafted wooden flutes, the listener can occasionally hear the drip of water in the cavern, which adds a surreal you-are-there feeling."

Mary started piano lessons at age six, violin at eight, classical flute and guitar at ten. As an adult, when Mary received her first wooden Native flute, she was driven to pursue the mastery of this instrument so tied to her own heritage.
Now years later with five unique and accomplished albums under her belt, Mary owns over 250 hand carved Native American Style flutes in her collection and uses a wide variety of them throughout every one of her albums. Each of her flutes is masterfully crafted from different types of wood, bringing a unique sound and texture to each song.

When Mary performs, it takes only a moment to acknowledge the profound spirituality of the sacred Native American flute and its historical courtship and wooing attributes. Her haunting music is much more than a song ... it's liquid poetry, a prayer.

Mary Youngblood takes little credit for the intense emotions people feel when they listen to her music. "I am only a vessel between Creator and this instrument. As a sculptor would tell you, the clay has a spirit of its own and decides what it will become; so it is with the flute. These songs came from those who walked before me."

Mary and her family currently reside in Northern California.
Now years later with five unique and accomplished albums under her belt, Mary owns over 250 hand carved Native American Style flutes in her collection and uses a wide variety of them throughout every one of her albums. Each of her flutes is masterfully crafted from different types of wood, bringing a unique sound and texture to each song.

When Mary performs, it takes only a moment to acknowledge the profound spirituality of the sacred Native American flute and its historical courtship and wooing attributes. Her haunting music is much more than a song ... it's liquid poetry, a prayer.

Mary Youngblood takes little credit for the intense emotions people feel when they listen to her music. "I am only a vessel between Creator and this instrument. As a sculptor would tell you, the clay has a spirit of its own and decides what it will become; so it is with the flute. These songs came from those who walked before me."

Mary and her family currently reside in Northern California.

MUSIC PRODUCTS

Sacred Place ~ With rich vibrato and notes that melt into your heart, Mary Youngblood takes the artistry of Native American flute music to its highest level. Her song writing brings forth some of the sweetest original melodies ever performed on this instrument, and the collection herein showcases the most sublime. These peaceful and vibrant songs have been carefully selected to quiet the mind, relax the body, and inspire one to contemplate the Sacred Place within.
The Spirit of Sacajawea ~ The Spirit of Sacajawea is a new independent film by Naka Productions. The only woman and the only Indian to travel with the Lewis and Clark expedition, Sacajawea is one of the most revered women in American history, yet her story has been romanticized and, often, misinterpreted by non-natives. The Spirit of Sacajawea examines the many controversies of her life, how her tribes were impacted, and how they are surviving today. This is the story of Sacajawea from a Native woman's perspective. You can order this DVD from www.nakatv.com for $25.00, plus $5.00 shipping & handling.

Dance With the Wind ~ Sometimes the wind whispers and sometimes the wind howls. When Mary Youngblood lets the wind flow through her Native American flutes the result is always one of beauty and joy. Inspired by the wisdom of nature, Mary writes: " The trees have given a voice to me, the voice that sings to you now." Her eclectic musical style evokes feelings of freedom, and gratitude for the blessings of life, our Dance with the Wind. (Grammy Award Winner)

Feed the Fire ~ Follows Mary Youngblood's GRAMMY AWARD winning album Beneath the Raven Moon. She returns with fresh and unique performances on the Native American Flute with her signature melodies and sweet vocals framed in captivating arrangements spanning a variety of musical styles. With special guest appearances by Ian Anderson, Bill Miller, and Joanne Shenandoah, Feed the Fire is full of energy, warmth and passion.

 "Absolutely enchanting! Youngblood beautifully demonstrates the talent that earned her numerous Native American Music Awards." -Billboard
Beneath the Raven Moon ~ is poetry of the heart flowing forth from the Native American flute as only Mary Youngblood can play it. This superb collection of songs showcases her award winning talents in adventurous new settings from blues to classical, all the while treating us to the beautiful heartfelt melodies for which she is known and loved. Additionally, this album showcases Youngblood's strong voice harmonizing along with her many flutes. The title of each track on the CD is a line from a poem written by Youngblood giving this album a poetic concept album.
(Grammy Award Winner)
Heart of the World ~ Mary Youngblood's original sound promises to take listeners to places they have never been with the Native American flute. Colorful, poignant, and textured, these songs are uniquely presented including vocals by Joanne Shenandoah on instruments including multi-chamber flutes, guitar, percussion, cittern, dulcimer, eagle bone whistle and the exquisite voice of Joanne Shenandoah. Both meditative and playful, this recording is a true celebration of the heart.
The Offering ~ Mary Youngblood’s music and popularity has soared. Mary is a Grammy award winning artist who is willing to put it all on the line to share her music, her soul, and her knowledge with everyone. The Offering was Mary’s first recording effort and was recorded in an underground cavern in California. This special recording has won the hearts of flute players worldwide and is a top selling CD.
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