Leonard and the Peltiers

Doo-wop has hit the rez and in fashion. Taking from Johnny Cash and his Fulton County prison concerts, Leonard and the Peltiers will hit reservations around the country in order to inspire and organize. The Peltiers started out of frustration over the real Leonard Peltier’s wrongful imprisonment. They are true activists who like to sing too, besides getting out the message. Running Whileeating, the lead singer, explained their message, “Our strategy is to sing doo-wop, in a sense to woo the hearts and minds of this nation. Our lyrics will penetrate the minds of many. Then and only then, will our message be heard. By coercing with nostalgia, the Native plight will be heard. Nobody likes rain dances and Hopi art! Americans love Americana, tradition and yesteryear. We’re bringing back yesteryear to tell the tale of the destruction of the Native.”Major record labels are knocking down doors, literally, to sign the Peltiers. “The Peltiers are rebirth of the 50s and 60s popular music. Doo-wop was all about people coming together singing in synchronization.” The labels are mum on what kind of deal they are offering the Peltiers but needless to say the deal will be “Intoxicating!”, as one record exec put it.Their hit single “Oh, Leonard” is climbing the billboard charts as we speak. It’s a rendition of Ritchie Valens’ “Oh, Donna”, an excerpt:

Oh, Leonard, oh Leonard
Oh, Leonard, oh Leonard

I had a Native, Leonard was his name
Since he left me I’ve never been the same
‘Cause I love my NativeLeonard, where can you be? Where can you be?

Other enticing tracks include, “Trail of Tears”, “Why do Natvies fall for the bottle?” - their unusual take on do the conquistadors and their sleeper “Will you assimilate me tomorrow?” a poignant ballad towards the America they’ve known for over 500 years.