Michael R. Denny is regarded as an esteemed cultural ambassador of Mi’kmaw language, knowledge and culture. Since he began performing traditional Mi’kmaw music in 2006, he has brought a new light to this genre through engaging the audience with his powerful vocals and unique style. 

As a singer, song-writer and producer, Michael R. has contributed to the cultural fabric of Mi’kma’ki and the world though his notable accomplishments. Most recently, the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG 2023) took place in Kjipuktuk (Halifax, NS) and he produced and sang for the opening ceremonies for NAIG 2023. Elevating and bringing visibility to the Ko’jua, a song and dance style distinct to the region. In 2022, Michael R. traveled to Rome, Italy along with a delegation of performers to sing and uplift our people who have just met the Pope to ask for an apology for Residential Schools in Canada. 

Michael R. is often sought after for his guidance and expertise and has worked with the JUNO’s Traditional Indigenous Music Advisory Committee since 2021. He was an Artist-in-Residence at Memorial University’s School of Music and the Museum of Canadian History has acquired Ji’kmaqnn (a traditional instrument) made by Michael R. for their collection. In 2010, Michael R. got to perform for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in Kjipuktuk during the royal visit to Canada.

In the Spring 2016, Michael R. released his celebrated debut album “Traditionally Yours: Mi’kmaq Drums Young and Old”, which was a first of its kind! It is a combination of traditional songs and contemporary Mi’kmaw powwow songs. Michael R. is currently working on a new album, set to be released sometime in 2024! 

Michael R. received the Platinum Jubilee Medal for his work in Reconciliation and Culture as one of Nova Scotia’s inaugural recipients, in 2022. In the spring of 2023, he received the Performing Arts Alliance (IPAA) Member Recognition Award for the outstanding contribution to Mi’kmaw songs and dances.

In 2020, Michael R. graduated from Cape Breton University with a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree.

Michael R. is proud to call Eskasoni Mi’kmaw Nation home. But more importantly, his life mission is not only to continue Mi’kmaw songs and dances, but to teach his three daughters, Averie, Cedar and Sage, along with his wife, Koran, all that he knows so they can continue on this important tradition.