Music of Alaska - History and Overview

History and Overview

Alaska's original music belongs to the Inupiaq, Aleut, Tlingit, and other Alaska Native communities. Russian, English and Irish immigrants brought their own varieties of folk music. Alaska was home to some of the United States' renowned performers, such as the singer Jewel, and Hobo Jim, who was legislatively declared "Alaska's state balladeer". Traditional Aleut flautist Mary Youngblood, folk singer-songwriter Libby Roderick and the traditional performing group Pamyua also identify as Alaskan. Alaska also has a prominent metal and rock scene. Metalcore band 36 Crazyfists originated in Alaska, as did indie rock bands Portugal. The Man, The Wagner Logic, and The Builders and The Butchers.