It was an unexpected turn of events on a Calgary Stampede mainstage in 2019 that brought together Calgary’s own renowned indie-folk outfit, Reuben and the Dark and traditional powwow champions, Bullhorn Singers for a live performance that stopped both the audience and these artists in their tracks. This impromptu and unlikely union of culture, life experience and sound in front of a crowd of thousands was electric and, little did they realize then, was the start of a deep friendship and artistic collaboration between the two groups who have collectively gone on to write, record, headline more festival stages, tour across North America and find success at Film and TV placements - most notably the 2023 trailer for Martin Scorsese’s Oscar-winning film, Flowers of a Killer Moon.
Bullhorn Singers is led by Iskotoah’ka William (Billy) Wadsworth and brings powerful songs to the powwow music scene. Stemming from the Blood Tribe, Kainai Nation of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Billy is a member of the Motois’pitaiks “All Tall Peoples” Clan and a member of the Kaanaa’tsimiitaiks “Brave Dog” society of the Blood Tribe. Bullhorn Singers were created by Billy and his late brother Blaine Wadsworth who began singing as kids. Along with their younger cousin Bueford, they then began to build the group including their family members and extended family. Since 1998, the group has traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada competing at contests and have won several championships.
Reuben and the Dark is the spirited folk-rock outfit led by Reuben Bullock, whose music blends introspective lyrics with the irrepressible pulse and harmonies of his band. The band have graced stages across the globe, captivating audiences with their raw energy and emotive storytelling. From hundreds of intimate club venues to prestigious music festivals, Reuben Bullock's dynamic stage presence and charisma have left an indelible impression on all who witness their performances. Notable appearances include supporting Vance Joy, Mumford and Sons, Boy & Bear and The Paper Kites, festival performances as Osheaga and Austin City Limits, and performing original music with Ulysses’s the Odyssey Greek Theatre of Siracusa Sicily to name a few. His music has been heard in high profile placements such as Breaking Bad's El Camino, The Voyage of Dr. Doolittle, Grey's Anatomy, The Highwaymen, Game of Thrones, and many more. With over 45 million streams on Spotify alone, Reuben's distinct voice is easily recognizable around the globe.
This dynamic artist collective - now formally known as Reuben And The Dark and Bullhorn Singers - are unintentionally creating history in Canada; breaking down cultural boundaries through art to represent the healing power of music.