5 Q&A With Norine Braun
Is there a person/event that stimulated the creation of "Adoption?"
As an adoptee there is a common lifelong struggle to form an authentic sense of self that growing up away from a bloodline can foster. There is a symbolic and literal search for roots that became a crucial part of my journey toward wholeness in learning about my ancestry and heritage. Early in my adult life, I had to reconcile I may never know the story of my origin or who my ancestors are. But somehow I felt they knew who I was and this gave me comfort.
I had always hoped to find at least a name of my paternal side and a confirmation of ethnicity. About a decade ago I had my DNA tested and had confirmation on genetics but no clue as to who my father was. In 2021 my loving mother who had adopted me became ill and passed away. Only 2 days after Mother’s passing I received an email from a cousin that they discovered who my birth father was. He was not only alive but knew of me and wanted to meet me. In between tears of grief for the loss of my mother, there was great joy at learning who I came from and my lineage. The feelings were disorienting and overwhelming but I found it was a great gift and the timing incredible.
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for "Adoption?"
Although the song is about my personal experience I wanted to try and encapsulate common themes and ideas many adoptees often think about so that was the challenge to make it more universal.
How does this song fit into your overall artistic vision and what can listeners expect from you in the future?
The creation of this poignant song and album was made possible through the support of a grant from the First Peoples' Cultural Council.
The album delves deep into my personal journey as an adoptee, exploring the challenges of forming an authentic sense of self when growing up away from a bloodline. "Journey Toward Wholeness" is a testament to resilience and my symbolic and literal quest for roots that played a crucial role in my pursuit of completeness.
The revelation of my biological father not only connected me with a living parent but also opened the door to a newfound family filled with musicians, trappers, World War II veterans, and even historical figures such as my great, great grandfather, Pierre Poitras, a member of Louis Riel’s council of 40. I discovered I am Red River Metis this revelation is explored and celebrated in the upcoming album. The album promises a rich and evocative experience scheduled for May 24 2024, I invite audiences to join me on this transformative musical odyssey. The album promises to resonate with those who, like me, have faced the challenges of unknown ancestry, offering insight and inspiration to individuals on their own journeys of self-discovery.
Can you share a bit about your musical background and the journey that led you to where you are today?
I am a Canadian singer-songwriter recording artist with 14 albums released. My music explores themes of the environment, identity, heritage, and the universal journey of self-discovery.
Do you have a favorite song that you've performed or recorded?
What makes it special to you? Wow, that's a tough one I think of my songs as my children it is truly hard to have a favourite. You see my songs are my diary and what I am encountering in the moment and needing to express so in that way they are all important to me and my journey.
