In 2017, a powerful musical force emerged from the Navajo Nation, captivating audiences with raw energy and profound talent. Narbona, a metal band comprising Stewart Billie on drums, Lestat StandingBear on lead guitar and vocals, and Unity Billie on bass guitar and backup vocals, has been making waves in the Native metal scene. The band’s origin is rooted in the bond between a father and his sons, making their story even more remarkable. Stewart Billie, a single father of two boys, boldly forged a musical path with his sons, creating a band that is a force to be reckoned with.
Beginnings and Inspiration:
Stewart Billie, Narbona’s drummer and father of Lestat and Unity, reminisced about where their musical journey began. “Being a single father of two boys, my sons went were I went. They listened to what I listened to and it only seemed natural for them to pick up the guitar and bass. I taught them all I could and they went full speed from there”.
“For me, it started when I was 14. I would listen to music that was “otherworldly”. Music that really spoke through words, riffs and licks”, said Unity. ” Then, living on the reservation gave me an perpective of how things are and I knew that I could try to perceive the beauty we all see and do in our everyday lives through Heavy Metal Music.”
Lestat StandingBear expressed how the band’s beginning was ignited by their close-knit relationship and how their familiarity gave them the ability to understand how their musical influences and talents would come together to create their music.
“Seeing these two guys that I’ve been around my whole life want to start a band, was inspiring because we know each other enough to know what type of music we would want to play with one anothe, how it would sound, and how would could all collaborate one thing, and one thing only.”
Influence of Their Navajo Heritage on Music:
Culture plays a significant role in Narbona’s music. Stewart Billie explained the band’s name was inspired by a revered Navajo leader who tragically lost his life to the U.S. Cavalry and New Mexican Militia in 1849. The name Narbona serves as a tribute to their history and ancestors.
“Narbona was great headsman who lived in The Chuska Mountains and was murdered by The U.S Calvary And New Mexican Militia in 1849. He was also father-in-law to the Famous War Chief “Manuelito”, explained Stewart. “We named our band NARBONA, because we are proud of our history and our ancestors.”
Lestat StandingBear elaborated on the band’s purpose, emphasizing their desire to break away from the typical themes associated with heavy metal and instead use their music as a platform to empower their community.
“Usually, the music we play is always associated with Devil Stuff, gore, and brutality. But we didn’t want to be a part of that. We wanted to be a voice for who we are as a people. What are our morals? What do we stand for? What we go through mentally, knowing we’re a part of the Navajo Nation?” said Lestat.
Their lyrics delve into the struggles faced by Natives, offering a voice of resilience and unity. Unity Billie added that their music reflects the strength and perseverance exhibited by their ancestors on the reservation.
It would be how we carry ourselves in our everyday lives, on the reservation. Our ancestors, who inhabited these lands, managed to adapt through perseverance.” he said. “It took blood, sweat, and tears to create beauty or sustainability for life. It’s what influenced me to write thoughts, feelings, and what we do through music.”
Challenges and Rewards:
Challenges have been a part of Narbona’s journey, but they remain focused on professionalism and connecting with their audience. Stewart Billie acknowledged the logistical hurdles of traveling long distances for shows, while Unity Billie mentioned the resourcefulness required to overcome equipment limitations.
“Well, for one, the rez isn’t all luxury. We work hard and plan with one another to see how we can make it to these shows that are far from home”, said Lestat. “Sometimes, having no cases for your instrument is kind of a hassle, so making your own DIY case for the instruments and being resourceful with what we have equipment wise.”
However, they all agreed that the support of their fans and the opportunity to perform live make it worthwhile. The rewards of their musical endeavor are deeply fulfilling. Stewart Billie expressed immense pride in seeing the small project he initiated with his sons transform into something tangible.
“The rewards are seeing a small project that me and my sons created turn into something real. Traveling with them and playing live is such an amazing feeling.”
Unity Billie concurred and added that gratification is also derived from being able to listen to their own compositions and take pride in the music they create.
On the Future and Rise of Native Metal:
Looking ahead, Narbona has a busy schedule, with several music festivals lined up both on and off the reservation. They are particularly excited about their upcoming performance in Los Angeles on July 28th. The band aspires to record a five-song EP and eventually release a full album. They have their eyes set on leaving a positive impact on their community and continuing to refine their craft.
Narbona recognizes the burgeoning Native metal scene and appreciates the opportunity to be part of it.
“We come from a place where heavy metal is appreciated. We see local bands playing with national acts 2-3 times a month”, says Stewart. “Gallup has a booming music scene I see a lot of native people taking the helm in making things happen, especially in the southwest.”
Witnessing and being a part of the rise of Native metal is exhilarating for Narbona.
“I think the world is ready to hear us native people on a national level because we have something to offer,”
Narbona’s journey is driven by their passion for music, their pride in their heritage, and their commitment to conveying the struggles and resilience of Native individuals through heavy metal. With their upcoming performances, recording plans, and dedication to their community, the band is poised to leave a lasting impact on the music scene while proudly representing their Navajo roots.
