During the twelve years they have traveled throughout this country and Canada, the Porcupine Singers have dedicated themselves to the traditional customs and beliefs of the Indian people. They have demonstrated their love and respect for their bothers by honoring them with traditional songs in times of mourning or sickness; in memory of loved ones, especially veterans; and during other moments of significance to the people. In this way they have tried to provide not only enjoyment, but also education, especially to the younger Indian generations, so that the beauty and strength that prevails in traditional music will continue to be recognized.
The meanings contained in the songs extend into everyday life. Words of sharing, of courage, of personal sacrifice admonish the people to strive for their age-old Indian virtues.
In the traditional way of honoring the drum owned by a group of singers, their drum was given the name: "Oyate Ho Nah'um" (The People Hear its Voice). The drum is to be treated with respect by those using it.
So it is with traditional Lakota songs. For some time, the Porcupine Singers had been reluctant to record traditional songs.
A number of reasons have compelled them to share their versions of these special songs with the public by way of this recording. They feel strongly that these songs should be sung properly and only for the purposes and within the context intended. More so than with intertribal songs, traditional songs should be treated with reverence and rendered only in the proper manner.
Without assuming any undue authority, but in the knowledge of the traditional ways, the Porcupine Singers have recorded this album at the 1977 Ring Thunder Wacipi, a traditional community celebration on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. In this way, it is their hope, you will not only enjoy their music, but also learn from it.