John Trudell was a renowned Native American activist, poet, and musician, who used his art to voice the struggles of the indigenous peoples and to promote social justice. Born on February 15, 1946, in Omaha, Nebraska, Trudell was of Santee Sioux heritage. His activism reached a peak during his role as the spokesperson for the United Indians of All Tribes' occupation of Alcatraz Island from 1969 to 1971, and he later served as the chairman of the American Indian Movement (AIM) from 1973 to 1979. Trudell's life was marked by personal tragedy in 1979 when his wife, three children, and mother-in-law perished in a fire of suspicious origin, an event that deeply affected him and influenced his subsequent work.

In the realm of music, John Trudell crafted a unique sound that blended rock, blues, and traditional Native American influences, often underlined by his poignant spoken-word performances that addressed a range of sociopolitical issues, including environmentalism and human rights. His powerful lyrics and evocative voice resonated on albums like "AKA Grafitti Man," which Bob Dylan hailed as one of the best albums he'd ever heard. Among his more recent releases are "Like Broken Butterflies," "Wazi's Dream," and "Through the Dust," all of which encapsulate his enduring commitment to advocacy through art. His works such as "Madness & the Moremes" and "DNA: Descendant Now Ancestor" reflect a deep connection with his roots and a forward-thinking perspective on indigenous identity. Trudell’s artistic legacy is a blend of resilience, poignant lyricism, and a relentless call for sovereignty and respect for the Earth—principles that continue to inspire activists and artists alike. John Trudell left behind a profound and moving body of work when he passed away on December 8, 2015, leaving an indelible mark on the world as a voice for the voiceless.