Jacob Shije is an Indigenous musician hailing from the Santa Clara Pueblo, nestled in the heart of Northern New Mexico. Born and raised amidst the rich cultural tapestry of his Pueblo, Jacob’s musical journey is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation.
From a young age, Jacob found solace and inspiration in the melodies playing from the radio of his grandparents’ house, where the timeless tunes of rock ‘n’ roll captivated his imagination. It was here that he first encountered the electrifying sounds of legends like Ritchie Valens, Elvis Presley and Link Wray, whose music would leave an indelible mark on his artistic sensibilities.
Fueled by a passion for music and a deep-rooted connection to his heritage, Jacob embarked on a musical journey that would see him become a driving force in the Indigenous contemporary music scene. Drawing from the rockabilly genre, he formed the Jacob Shije Trio, a dynamic ensemble that channels the spirit of classic rock ‘n’ roll with a modern twist.
However, Jacob’s talents extend beyond his own band, as he also finds himself lending his expertise to the Levi Platero Band, where their electrifying performances add depth and dimension to Native Blues.
Jacob’s musical journey began to take shape during his high school years when he picked up an instrument and began playing with his closest friends. What started as a shared hobby soon blossomed into a full-fledged passion, leading them to form their own band and set out on a path of musical exploration and discovery.
A proud member of the Santa Clara Pueblo, Jacob finds joy in using his music as a means of expressing and preserving his rich Tewa culture. Through his songs, he pays homage to his roots, infusing traditional elements into his compositions and celebrating the heritage that has shaped his identity.
With each performance, Jacob Shije continues to captivate audiences with his soulful melodies and electrifying stage presence, proving himself to be a rising star in the world of music. As he continues to evolve as an artist, one thing remains constant – his unwavering commitment to honoring his Pueblo Tewa heritage and sharing the gift of music with the world.
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