JB the First Lady facts for kids

Jerilynn Snuxyaltwa Webster, known as JB the First Lady, is an amazing Indigenous hip-hop artist, poet, and activist. She was born in 1984 and comes from the Nuxalk and Onondaga nations. JB uses her music to share important stories and speak up for Indigenous people.

She writes songs about tough topics, like the history of residential schools and the need for safety for Indigenous women. JB believes hip-hop can help Indigenous people feel strong and proud. She inspires many Indigenous women and young people to stand up for their rights. JB lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Early Life and Inspiration

Jerilynn Webster was born on March 12, 1984, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. As a child, she moved around Canada a lot. By the time she was a teenager, she had lived in many different places.

In the early 2000s, JB moved to Vancouver. There, she saw her first hip-hop show by a group called Tribal Wisdom. This show was a big moment for her. It made her want to create music that would help other young people.

In an interview, she shared how seeing those artists made her feel proud. She wanted to encourage young people to speak up about unfairness. This included issues about land, water, and Indigenous rights in Canada.

After that, JB started spending time at the Knowledgeable Aboriginal Youth Association (KAYA). KAYA had a free recording studio. This allowed her to start making her own music. She later began working at KAYA and became its leader at just 22 years old.

Music and Activism

In 2006, JB helped start the First Ladies Crew. This group is made up of Indigenous women who rap and perform hip-hop. They are based in East Vancouver. The group includes artists like Rapsure Risin, Dani and Lizzy, Christie Lee Charles, and Mama Es.

The First Ladies Crew uses hip-hop to empower young Indigenous women. They also share important oral histories and talk about identity. JB says that in the past, Indigenous women were the storytellers and keepers of traditions. She feels hip-hop is a great way to connect with others. It helps share the stories of First Nations and Indigenous people.

JB the First Lady has released several albums. She is a strong voice in Indigenous hip-hop and activism. She is well known for her involvement in the Idle No More movement. She has also hosted rallies for Indigenous rights and environmental justice. She speaks out about the importance of safety for Indigenous women.

In February 2017, JB was part of a national discussion. It focused on safety for Indigenous women and girls. She has performed and led music events across Canada. These include youth centers, Indigenous communities, and schools.

Since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its report, JB has shared Indigenous knowledge. She talks about history with many different groups. These include new Canadians and non-Indigenous communities. Even with national recognition, JB always focuses on supporting youth. She loves giving back to her community.

Awards and Recognition

JB the First Lady has received many awards for her music and activism:

• In 2017, her song was listed among the 100 Best Canadian Songs by CBC Music.
• She received a Commemorative Medal for the Queen's Golden Jubilee.
• In 2016, she won the Emerging Community Engaged Artist award from the Mayor Arts Award in Vancouver.
• She won Best Cover Album at the Indigenous Music Awards in 2015.
• She was nominated for Best New Album at the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Award in 2012.
• In 2011, she was nominated for Female Entertainer of the Year.
• Also in 2011, she was nominated for Best New Hip-Hop Album.

Music Albums

Solo Albums

• Indigenous Love (2008)
• Get Ready Get Steady (2011)
• Indigenous Girl Lifestyle (2014)
• Meant To Be (2017)
• Righteous Empowered Daughter (2018)

Collaborations

• Indigenized by Enter-Tribal, with Chief Rock (2015)

Singles

• "Get Ready Get Steady" (2011)
• "OOTG" (2017)
• "Still Here" (2018)