Nadjiwan (aka Marc Meriläinen) marks 30 years of music with “Reservation Road,” a warm folk rock song that is imbued with the excitement and anticipation that comes with finally turning off the highway and down the local roads that lead to the place you’re yearning for. Meriläinen is a member of Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Cape Croker, and recorded the song — along with his recent album The Mission — on the Mescalero Apache Reservation in New Mexico. In our interview, Nadjiwan tells us about how the song came together and how he envisions a more just music industry.
How did “Reservation Road” come together?
I wrote the song a number of years ago when I was putting myself through a songwriting exercise of trying to write “road songs.” This resulted in two very different compositions. One of these songs, ‘Land of Skoden’ was on the last album which is about driving from Toronto to Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, located 20 km southwest of Sudbury. “Reservation Road’ is the song that comes next logically. Driving down the highway towards the reserve we always had to keep an eye open for the “Reservation Road” that would take us to our family and friends.
Why did you ask Natasha Fisher to join you on the song?
I first learned of Natasha’s music from a mutual friend. We performed together at an event earlier this year and I was impressed with her talent. Additionally she is also from Thunder Bay originally so we had an immediate connection. While we were working on the song, co-producer Ron Skinner suggested we make it a duet. I thought Natasha would be a great fit for this song so we asked her to come in and she laid down her tracks in an hour.
Do you have any songwriting tips you can share?
Everyone has a different process and method. But, I would say here’s some of the basics :
- Write from personal experience. Authenticity resonates with listeners.
- Focus on writing good lyrics. Lyrics are crucial, especially if you’re writing a song with vocals. Make sure your lyrics tell a story or convey a clear message.
- Create a hook. The hook is the catchiest part of your song. It could be a melody, a lyric, or a rhythm. Starting with a strong hook can give you a solid foundation to build the rest of your song around.
- Keep it simple. Sometimes less is more. A simple melody or lyric can be more effective than something overly complex or hard to remember.
- Be persistent. Write daily. It’s like building muscle, if you only work out once a month you will not build muscle. Set up a regular songwriting routine.
What is your vision for a more just music industry?
It would be great if streaming services paid more than fractions of a penny to the artists that provide the content. We need equitable revenue sharing and to implement fair revenue-sharing models, especially with the rise of streaming services, to ensure artists receive a fair portion of the profits.
Promote diversity in all areas of the music industry, from executive positions to artists and production teams.
More support for marginalized groups by providing platforms and opportunities for underrepresented groups to showcase their talents.
Is there a professional “bucket list” item you would love to check off?
Over the past 30 years I’ve been very fortunate to have many great experiences in the music industry. To be honest I think I’ve already checked off most of those items. Nonetheless it would be nice to win a Juno or Grammy award.
Where are some places you’ve found joy within the country/Americana world?
I’ve found joy in almost every place we’ve traveled to for music. The recent album was recorded in New Mexico. That place will always remain special to me.New Mexico’s beauty lies in its stunning diversity, from the ethereal white dunes of White Sands National Park to the dramatic mountain ranges near Ruidoso.
But, I still find myself yearning for the peaceful ruggedness of northwestern Ontario and Thunder Bay. It’s beauty is defined by its breathtaking natural wonders, from the majestic Sleeping Giant and cascading Kakabeka Falls to the serene shores of Lake Superior and the panoramic views from Thunder Mountain (Mount McKay).