Join us on a captivating journey through the life and artistry of Kelly Fraser, a remarkable Canadian Inuk pop singer and songwriter who left an indelible mark on the world of music.

Born on August 8, 1993, in the vibrant Inuit community of Igloolik, Kelly Fraser's early years were steeped in the rich cultural tapestry of the North. At a young age, she embarked on a journey that would take her family to Sanikiluaq, Nunavut, a land of stunning landscapes and ancient traditions.

Kelly's thirst for knowledge and cultural enrichment led her to Nunavut Sivuniksavut in Ottawa, a unique post-secondary program founded in 1985 to empower Inuit youth and teach them about the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement. Her pursuit of education then took her to the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology in British Columbia, where she completed an Indigenous studies program, adding depth and meaning to her music journey.

Kelly Fraser's musical odyssey began in earnest in 2013 when she burst onto the scene with a series of captivating Inuktitut-language covers of popular songs, most notably her rendition of Rihanna's "Diamonds," which captivated audiences on YouTube. This early success was just the beginning of a career that would take her to new heights.

In 2014, she released her debut album, "Isuma." The album, featuring seven original songs and three cover tracks, was a musical journey that carried the profound message of "thinking" — a fitting title for a musician who aimed to inspire reflection and introspection through her music.

Kelly Fraser's music was a beautiful blend of contemporary pop and traditional Inuit sounds, with lyrics in both Inuktitut and English. Her commitment to showcasing Inuit culture and raising awareness of pressing issues and Inuit rights was evident in every note she sang. Her music became a powerful vessel for the voices of her people, carrying the weight of history and the dreams of the future.

In 2017, Kelly Fraser released her second album, "Sedna." The album's Inuktitut title, ᓄᓕᐊᔪᒃ (Nuliaju), drew inspiration from the story of Sedna, the Inuit goddess of the sea. With this album, Fraser embarked on a mission to modernize and revitalize the tale of Sedna, infusing it with contemporary relevance and an unyielding commitment to healing the wounds of colonization.

"The goal of the album," she explained, "is to help heal those suffering from the effects of colonization, including the damaging effects of residential school and forced relocation. There is a great need for Inuit artists to directly speak to those affected from the past."

One of the album's standout tracks, "Fight for the Right," played a role in the 2016 Nunavut municipal land referendum, where voters were asked whether they were willing to allow the municipality to sell municipal lands. This song became a powerful anthem for the 'no' campaign, adding a new dimension to the power of music in social and political change.

Tragically, Kelly Fraser's journey was cut short on December 24, 2019, when she took her own life at her home in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her family revealed that she had faced "childhood traumas, racism, and persistent cyberbullying." Her untimely passing left a void in the world of music and in the hearts of those who cherished her talent.

In her memory, several candlelight vigils were held, honoring her life and legacy. One such tribute took place at The Forks on January 4, while another was held at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology in Merritt, BC. These gatherings were a testament to the profound impact Kelly Fraser had on her community and the world.

Kelly Fraser's music was more than just melodies and lyrics; it was a powerful force for change, healing, and cultural preservation. Her voice was a beacon of hope and a reminder that music can be a catalyst for social transformation. While she may be gone, her music lives on, an enduring testament to her enduring spirit and unwavering commitment to her people and their stories.