Regina's Brad Bellegarde shares residential school stories with hip-hop

Regina musician Brad Bellegarde, also known as InfoRed, saidhiphop is the best way to reach the next generation of Aboriginal storytellers.

"We need to reconnect with that cultureand storytelling has always been a cornerstone of First Nations culture," Bellegarde said. "So the only way to relate to them right now is rap music. I've been given the giftso I might as well share it."

Bellegarde is taking part in the Skwwak Storytellers Festival in Regina. The festival features storytelling by elders, filmmakers, poets, visual artists, and musicians.

Bellegarde saidhe was inspired to write a song about his family's experience with residential schools after the Truth and Reconciliation Commissionput out a call for songs.

He asked his mother and uncle to tell him their stories and memories from their first days at residential school. The result is 'I Remember',a powerful song that will be released on his upcoming album,Rediculous Stories.

Bellegardeperformed 'I Remember' live in studio with Morning Edition host StefaniLangenegger.