Mike Bern, an Indigenous folk-rock singer-songwriter, drops captivating new single “Into The River”

ermanence. In the lines, “I have you in my hand, watching the trees and sand, I hope our love will float into the river, I hope it does,” Bern encapsulates the idea of love as a transient force, much like the ever-flowing river.

The chorus of “Round round round round she goes, no one knows where she goes,” serves as a poignant reflection on the unpredictable nature of love and life, showcasing Bern’s ability to weave personal experiences into universally resonant themes.

“Into The River” stands as a testament to Bern’s dual commitment to personal storytelling and collective connection. Through his music, he invites listeners to delve into a journey of emotions, memories, and hopes that transcend individual experiences.

Growing up in Tobique First Nation, Bern’s musical journey was deeply intertwined with the rivers that flowed through his community. Immersed in the sounds of family gatherings and inspired by his late uncle’s guitar melodies, Bern found solace and passion in playing the acoustic guitar, a skill he honed over the past thirty years. This early exposure to music laid the foundation for his distinctive sound and lyrical style, rooted in his heritage and upbringing.

An instrumental moment in Bern’s life occurred during a period of rehabilitation when a counselor recognized the poetic essence of his writing. This recognition affirmed Bern’s path as a musician and marked a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. Drawing from his experiences and cultural heritage, his albums like ‘Waponahkew’ and ‘Ancestors’ serve as testaments to his dedication to preserving storytelling traditions and identity through music.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind “Into The River,” Bern shares, “When I wrote the song, I wanted to capture the essence of love as a fluid and evolving force, akin to the rivers that flow through our lands. The river holds the stories, memories, and rejuvenation of my community and me.”

The nostalgic and hopeful undertones of the track, coupled with its retro-infused energy, encapsulate a sense of both longing and optimism, encapsulating the idea that amidst change, there exists a journey towards new beginnings.

With each release, Bern’s music continues to evolve, blending his acoustic roots with contemporary production choices, signaling artistic growth and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries. “Into The River” not only solidifies Bern’s position as a prominent Indigenous folk-rock artist but also highlights his ongoing dedication to bridging cultural traditions with new creative horizons.

Through his music, Bern invites listeners to partake in a harmonious blend of personal narratives and collective experiences, creating a space for introspection, connection, and shared resonance. As he progresses in his career, Bern’s music resonates with a profound sense of strength, clarity, and cultural legacy, propelling him forward as a distinctive voice in the Indigenous music landscape.