ABOUT NAVAJO RADIO
The opening track features a Navajo intro by actor/producer Harrison Lowe. "This song illustrates the importance of Native American radio and how it serves as a lifeline to tribal members across the country."
The Diva and her band were proud participants of the 1997 Navajo Nation Fair in Window Rock, Arizona. Driving through the night, listening to the funeral of Princess Diana on the radio, they arrived the next morning in Gallup, New Mexico.
Gallup is a familiar town to both the Diva and her sister, Gay. Both attended Red Rock Elementary School while their dad, Kenneth Wahpecome served as the local Navy recruiter in town. "While we were there, a film crew (Chuck Braverman Productions) did a Navy film about my dad called, "He Stands Here and There," which is a very loose translation of the meaning of the word "Kickapoo." It was my first taste of Hollywood!," enthused Arigon. "The film crew invaded our home ever so briefly -- the movie was mainly my dad talking to local Indians about joining the service and driving around in that big government truck/Suburban thing he had."
Arigon's mom was a teacher at Fort Wingate High School, where she taught Indian kids to play music. "My favorite times were going to the basketball games. My sister and I sold popcorn once...I had never been on my feet for so long in my young life! Ouch!"
The radio station that served as an inspiration for the song has become big supporters of Arigon and her music. After many well-received appearances on KTTN's "Navajo Nights" and repeat airings of her music and interviews, producer Lorie Lee recently told Arigon that "people think you're Navajo!"
What a great compliment!
