Episode 7: Jules Spence

If you grew up or lived on the James Bay area for the past 40 years, then you’ve heard the voice of Jules Spence on the radio. And if you’ve been to a community gathering in the region that featured live music, chances are you’ve also heard his guitar playing as he belts out classic rock tunes. 

Originally from Fort Albany First Nation, Jules is a broadcaster with Wawatay Radio based in Timmins, providing daily programs in Cree to the James Bay communities and Timmins area. And he is currently the lead guitarist and singer of the rock band, the Swamp Rockers.

Jules also played lead guitar in the beloved James Bay classic song, “Pretty Girl” by the late John Larry Rodrique. In this episode, Jules talks about that performance and the legacy of John Rodrique. He also talks about growing up in Fort Albany, becoming a musician (including playing the bongos), and how he started his broadcasting career. 

Meanwhile, Lenny discusses his experience with Learn Moose Cree, the online learning platform launched by Moose Cree First Nation in partnership with Learning Foundry, as mentioned in the last episode with Geraldine Govender. He also talks about his appearance on Wawatay Radio with Jules, where he prepared a statement in Cree. He compares the translation he developed on his own to the one provided by his mom.

Wawatay Native Communications Society: https://wawataynews.ca

Wawatay Radio Network available at 106.7 FM in the James Bay and Timmins region, or 89.9 FM in northwestern Ontario. Can also be found on radio apps like Simple Radio.

Learn Moose Cree soft launch post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1csS5TmK4F/

“Pretty Girl” by John Larry Rodrique. Used with permission. Live performance video: https://youtu.be/D25cNn8Efns?si=jpzC7rzMHig78nqZ

Apisheesh is supported by the Indigenous Screen Office

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