"That divide is there between cultural and Christian First Nations people. I love that there's still respect between the two and that they can co-exist. It's not that I'm unaware of the two realms, (Gospel First Nation) is my attempt at amalgamation."

William Prince. Peguis First Nation. Treaty 1 Territory, Manitoba.

Country music star William Prince reached near the top of the Billboard charts back in 2018 with the single "Breathless," from his debut album Earthly Days.

And Prince has not slowed down since, even during the pandemic. The Juno award winning country star has just released his second album of 2020. Gospel First Nation comes out just months after the critically acclaimed Reliever album. As the name suggests, Gospel First Nation draws on his Christian upbringing and First Nation roots. He and National Chief Bellegarde discuss the negative and positive roles of the church in First Nations culture, Prince's love of gospel music, and why a song written by his late father is one of Prince's favourites on the new album.

A big thanks goes out to the Red Dog Singers of Treaty 4 Territory in Saskatchewan for our theme music.

The Ahkameyimok Podcast is produced by David McGuffin of Explore Podcast Productions.