“Memories are a playlist of life:” Nunavut artist releases debut EP
Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu’s self-titled EP is available now
Album artwork for Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu’s self-titled debut EP.
Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu has built a career around his voice. He started speaking to young people as a substitute teacher in Arctic Bay. Then, he took his voice to the airwaves as the host of the CBC Nunavut show, Qulliq. Now, he’s venturing into music with his debut EP. The self-titled Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu was released across streaming platforms on April 15, 2024.
Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu is a three-song EP that showcases Qaqqasiq-Taqtu’s love for his community and life.
“Music helps me to understand and appreciate what I have in the presence of life,” said Qaqqasiq-Taqtu. “It makes me want to continue and see what the end of the tunnel has to offer.”
“Memories are a playlist of life.”
Qaqqasiq-Taqtu’s vocals are heartfelt and melodic. They are supported by rhythmic acoustic instrumentals, giving the EP a singer-songwriter feel. All of the songs feature Inuktitut lyrics.
Throughout the EP, Qaqqasiq-Taqtu breaks barriers by incorporating katajjaq, also known as Inuit throat singing. The practice is typically performed by women, yet Qaqqasiq-Taqtu uses the technique in his songs, “The Beautiful Spring” and “Inuit Culture.”
Preserving Inuit culture through music is important to him.
“I want people to know that keeping your culture, your knowledge and your traditions will help you to be who you are today,” he said.
Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu was produced by Grammy-, Juno-, and Polaris Prize-winning music producer, Chris Birkett. His previous work includes Sinéad O'Connor, Sting and Talking Heads. Birkett and Qaqqasiq-Taqtu co-wrote the songs. The project was recorded in Ottawa. The EP was released by the record label, Hitmakerz. It was distributed through CD Baby. Financial support was provided by the Government of Nunavut.
The EP is just one part of Qaqqasiq-Taqtu’s musical journey. He also hopes to use his debut release to inspire other people to create music. One of his goals is to travel to different communities to teach the creative processes of music.
“Even if you have nothing, your creativity is magically restored [when you want to] put it out there,” said Qaqqasiq-Taqtu. “I’m willing to advocate for the young people who wish to pursue new opportunities and dreams in music.”
Eli Qaqqasiq-Taqtu is available now through all streaming platforms. To stay up to date with Qaqqasiq-Taqtu, follow him on Facebook and Instagram or check out his website.
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For PR, bookings, or more information, please contact:
Sarah Elaine McLay | sarah@hitmakerz.com
Giuli Saucedo | giuli@hitmakerz.com
About Hitmakerz
Founded in 2016, Hitmakerz is a full-service record label based in Nunavut. Specializing in creating world-class Inuit and Indigenous music, Hitmakerz has studios in Iqaluit, Ottawa, and Toronto. A social enterprise, their mission is to create viable careers in the arts for Inuit and Indigenous artists through music, media, and education, as well as to empower artists to share their stories and strengthen their culture. www.hitmakerz.com
Acknowledgment
We acknowledge the support of the Government of Nunavut.
