A departure for my blog — to return to the Native American roots of my spirit if not DNA. I’m having a joy-filled pow-wow here, having just re-found this Native American chant that I sooo love and have not heard in sooo very many years! I’m so happy to share it with you.
I’m celebrating this music tonight, posting 3 versions of Witchi tai to, originally recorded by Jim Pepper to whom is was passed down by his grandfather. Something about this makes me teary-eyed with ancient emotions, and I can’t seem to stop replaying it! Been checking various versions on youtube—so many variations in sound quality, or video production (if any). Settled on the three you’ll find below.Anyone who has even the slightest appreciation of a good Indian chant will just LOVE this! I defy anyone to sit still and not be uplifted in a big way by this chant.
So the three versions are—first—the original recording by Native American jazz saxist Jim Pepper. Second is a later, live/livelier and longer version (also Pepper) that I just can’t sit still to, it is such a soul-lifter! The only drawback on this second one is, it gets cut off prematurely :(. Then the third one, since I’m on a roll here, is a whole other vibe by Brewer & Shipley.
Enjoy! Shake a rattle! Sing!
Love all ~ Whitehawk
Original Jim Pepper recording (short & simple):
Long & lively, w/a brief authentic pow-wow prelude:
Brewer & Shipley cover version (more folksy, harmonized, and ‘produced’ sound):


