Native American teen performs at Pow Wow On The River
He’s a self-taught Native American flutist, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, songwriter and producer—yet he’s only 15. With the release of his CD The Journey last summer, Gareth Laffely’s music has reached ears and warmed hearts across the United States and Canada. The Tennessee native is coming to Chattanooga to perform at this year’s Chattanooga Pow Wow On The River.
His music, a blend of rock, pop, and world music, is described as “the spiritual and healing influences of the Native American flute with the edge of Ian Anderson.” His lyrics range from expressing emotion to inspiring his peers to make a difference in their community and in the lives of others.
The Journey debuts 11 of his songs including “This Time,” written to advocate anti-bullying and “Move On,” written after the death of a family friend from cancer.
Laffely’s music video for the song gained him national attention, which spurred performances at cancer events across the U.S. and proceeds donated to cancer research.
Laffely will perform with Women of Heart and Tlaltlacayolotl Aztec Dancers on Saturday, Apr. 5 at 10:30 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m. and Sunday, Apr. 6 at 2 p.m. at the First Tennessee Pavilion.
— Madeline Chambliss