People Of The Sun stay present in their new single and video Kayâs (A Long Time Ago) — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
A seamless blend of hip-hop, pop, funk and rock, Kayâs (A Long Time Ago) is a standout track from the unique Saskatchewan collective — an octet of musicians and vocalists from different cultural backgrounds, ages, genders, and faiths who not only create impactful music, but serve as an example of inclusion and reconciliation.
“We have eight people in our crew, all talented in their own way, each with their own story,” says guitarist and producer Erik Mehlsen. “There’s not a second to be bored on the whole album; you get a buffet of personalities to fill your plate every time.”
Also featuring MC Info Red, Pakistani-born MC and producer Origin of Spin, Nigerian-born singer-songwriter Nini Jegz, Regina-born vocalist Lexy Desjarlais, keyboardist Ethan Reoch, drummer Cyprian Henry and bass player Rob Lane, People Of The Sun are a testament to the power of collaboration and the success that can come from a shared artistic vision.
Each track on their album captures the collaborative brilliance of eight individuals looking to make meaningful, mindful music to benefit listeners. Our Power is a response to the conversation around abortion legislation in the United States, while Domino talks about gang violence in Regina’s inner city. Kayâs (A Long Time Ago) speaks to the power of music as a tool for mental health, while Applause is a funk party banger. The album boldly states that hip-hop does not need to be limited to drum machines and synthesizers.
Wriing collaboratively, People Of The Sun demonstrate the power of collective effort and show how a single common goal can bring joy and success. It strikes a rare balance between “we” and “me,” highlighting the importance of individual contributions to a collective effort. Their goal? To make a record to show diversity isn’t just for billboards, but that hip-hop is real, made by real people.
This ambition was tested repeatedly throughout the 10-month process of making the LP. Two of their three recording sessions were canceled due to COVID, but the collective persevered. “Making this record, this way, with this crew, was a steep mountain to climb,” said Mehlsen. “So many hurdles and challenges. But to hear this record, front to back, knowing how and why it was made … makes it all worth it”
In the first years of the band’s existence, People Of The Sun recorded two EPs, performed at the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival and received national press. In 2022, they were named R&B Artist Of The Year at the Saskatchewan Music Awards. They are part of the Sharp 5 Records family, a label that seeks to create live-off-the-floor records with video.
Watch the video for Kayâs (A Long Time Ago) above, check out People Of The Sun below, and see the light at their website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
