Norine Braun seeks answers to life’s big questions in her new single and video Quest Before Me — premiering exclusively on Tinnitist.
The first single from the veteran Vancouver singer-songwriter’s upcoming 14th album Journey Toward Wholeness — a personal chronicle of her transformative emotion journey as an adoptee — the groovy retro-soul ballad Quest Before Me speaks to anyone who has set out on their own quest for self-discovery:
“In the morning I wake up my sleepyhead
Walk to the mirror I find someone else instead
Looking back at me questioning all I’ve said
Whose reflection gives pause to disguises shed
Quest before me
Who will I find in here?
Flake off the layers
A faceless voice appears
Invoking wisdom
With words that I cannot hear.”
Due in May, Journey Toward Wholeness delves deep into Braun’s past and present, exploring the challenges of forming an authentic sense of self when growing up away from a bloodline. Journey Toward Wholeness is a testament to Braun’s resilience and her symbolic and literal quest for roots that played a crucial role in her pursuit of completeness.
Braun’s story takes a compelling turn as she shares her decade-long struggle to uncover her paternal roots. Last year, in the midst of grieving the passing of her loving adoptive mother, Braun received a life-altering email from a second cousin who unveiled the identity of her birth father. The revelation not only connected her with a living parent but also opened the door to a newfound family filled with musicians, trappers, World War II veterans, and even historical figures such as her great-great-great grandfather Pierre Poitras, a member of Louis Riel’s council of 40. Braun learned she has Red River Metis heritage, a revelation explored and celebrated in the upcoming album.
Journey Toward Wholeness promises a rich and evocative experience, combining Braun’s soulful vocals with a melodic exploration of identity, heritage, and the journey of self-discovery. With the album due in May 2024, Braun invites audiences to join her on this transformative odyssey.
Watch the video for Quest Before Me above, hear more from Norine Braun below, check out her music on Bandcamp, Soundcloud, Apple, Amazon and YouTube, and keep up with her at her website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
