Queer, non-binary, Indigenous pop singer/songwriter Angel Baribeau– based in Cree Nation of Mistissini, Quebec – tells a tale of love and loss passed to the next generation in their video for “Wish We Were Older”.
Depicting an elderly woman reminiscing with visual memories about her past, the snapshots weave through love and loss and illustrate an uplifting timeline of her life as a queer woman.
“This music video will be a recounting of a lifetime of true love between an elderly 2 spirit Indigenous couple,” director Nang K’uulas / Patrick Shannon shares of the video’s scope. It shows “the challenges, the joy, the raising of a family in a community where that isn’t common,” adds. “It’s somber, but beautiful — and a reminder that everyone can find love and bring beauty into this world.”
“Working with Nang K’uulas / Patrick Shannon was a privilege,” the Montreal-based artist shares of the experience. “He went above and beyond, and I’m so grateful. It started with a call about a concept I had in my head, and Nang made it a reality.
“Working with an all-Indigenous cast for this video is an incredibly proud moment for me,” Baribeau continues. “I often talk about the importance of Indigenous and Queer representation, and this video is my hope for continuously providing that for Indigenous and Queer youth.
“It was an honour to work with so many incredibly strong Indigenous women, and to be able to spend time with them and hear about their lives and experiences.
“Nothing will ever compare to those conversations.
In addition, there were delights on-set.
“Tealy made us all fry bread; it was delicious,” Baribeau shares. “And the little one, Konwaherawi was an utter joy to work with; her mother and her are a magical duo. That wass (kid) wants the stars, and they shall be hers.
“One of my favourite memories was filming in the Old Port. It’s stunning: I’m so glad we made that choice (even if we almost lost my guitar…!)
“And my dear friend Chris Robertson lent us his cabin to film in. It’s been in his family for decades, and I don’t think the video would have been nearly as successful if it wasn’t for him and his generosity; I’m glad people like him exist.
“My cousin is one of the actresses in this video,” Baribeau reveals. “But I personally didn’t know who we were casting, so you can imagine my surprise when my cousin Kenny walked in with his daughter, Mehki…
“It was an unexpected family reunion!”
“Wish We Were Older” is the latest released from Baribeau’s recently released stunning debut, For Those I Love(d).
Check out the video below, and stay up to date with Angel via their socials.