John Trudell is an acclaimed poet, national recording artist, actor and activist whose international following reflects the universal language of his words, work and message. Trudell (Santee Sioux) was a spokesperson for the Indian of All Tribes occupation of Alcatraz Island from 1969 to 1971. He then worked with the American Indian Movement (AIM), serving as Chairman of AIM from 1973 to 1979.
Trudell has a singular ability to express fundamental truths through a unique mix of poetry, Native music, blues and rock where there are lyrics filled with penetrating insight and others with knock out humor. In addition to his music career, Trudell has played roles in a number of feature films, including a lead role in the Mirimax movie Thunderheart and a major part in Sherman Alexie’s Smoke Signals. He most recently played Coyote in Hallmark’s made for television movie, Dreamkeeper.
We lost a priceless treasure when John passed. A poet, warrior and soulful spirit. “Protect your spirit, because you are in the place where spirits get eaten.“