Welcome to Indigenous in the News with Larry K and Gary Wilcox. On today’s show, we’re honored to bring you one of the last interviews recorded with the late Tom Bee this past summer. It was a privilege to have him on the show and learn about his remarkable journey—from founding the Native band XIT, to initially managing the band before stepping into the role of lead singer. XIT made history as the first Native American band to sign with a major record label, and Tom’s extraordinary career later earned him two Grammy Awards. Tom’s life spanned 82 remarkable years, during which he touched the hearts of many with his kindness, wisdom, and love. A man of many talents and passions, he approached everything with a tireless work ethic and an unwavering dedication to excellence.
OUR INTERVIEW WITH TOM BEE
BIOGRAPHY
Early Life and Background
Tom Bee, born into the Navajo Nation (Diné people), was one of the foundational figures behind XIT, a groundbreaking Native American rock band that became iconic in the 1970s and beyond. As a member of the Navajo tribe, Tom was deeply connected to the cultural and social movements of Indigenous peoples in the United States. His upbringing in the Navajo community, and his exposure to the complex intersection of Native American identity and mainstream American society, played a significant role in shaping his musical and political expression.
Formation of XIT
In the early 1970s, Tom Bee, alongside a group of talented Indigenous musicians, formed XIT. The band was one of the first Native American rock groups to achieve significant recognition and popularity. Their music blended hard rock, and traditional Native American influences. The band’s name, XIT, was an abbreviation for “Cross Indian Tribe,” a symbolic reference to both their Indigenous heritage and their effort to cross cultural boundaries.
XIT was a pioneering force in breaking stereotypes about Native Americans in music. At a time when Native American voices were marginalized in both mainstream society and the music industry, XIT became a trailblazer, using their platform to elevate the voices of Indigenous people and express their struggles and triumphs through music.
The Band’s Impact and Music
XIT’s most prominent album, Plight of the Redman (1971), is often cited as a classic in the Native American rock genre. The album addressed a variety of political, cultural, and social issues facing Native Americans at the time, blending poignant lyrics with electrifying guitar riffs. The band’s music was revolutionary in terms of both its message and its sound, which incorporated rock, and traditional Native American music.
XIT’s combination of bold political statements and innovative music made them both a symbol of Native American pride and a voice for social change. Their music explored themes such as land rights, identity, and cultural preservation, while their performances challenged the racial and cultural assumptions that dominated the American music scene at the time.
Legacy and Influence
Though XIT’s mainstream success was limited compared to their musical peers, the band’s influence is undeniable. They were pioneers of Native American rock music, and their efforts inspired a generation of Indigenous artists and musicians. Their fusion of rock and Native American culture helped pave the way for other Indigenous musicians who would follow in their footsteps, including artists like Redbone, Buffy Sainte-Marie, and Keith Secola.
XIT’s impact extended far beyond music; their work was part of a broader movement to assert Native American cultural pride and autonomy, aligning with the civil rights movements of the 1960s and 1970s. They became an important part of the growing Native American activism that sought to reclaim Indigenous identity, land, and political power in the face of ongoing oppression.
Tom Bee’s Later Life
After XIT’s dissolution, Tom Bee continued to be involved in various artistic and community projects. He was active in efforts to promote Native American culture and was an advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples. Although he was not widely known in mainstream circles, his contributions to both music and Native American activism left an indelible mark on his community and the broader cultural landscape.
Tom Bee’s work with XIT remains an enduring part of the Native American cultural revival and has inspired countless musicians, activists, and Native American youth to embrace their heritage with pride.
Tom Bee – Without Reservation live at Mystic Lake Casino
INTRODUCING INDIGENOUS IN THE NEWS
We’re excited to announce the launch of our new News and Entertainment podcast, Indigenous in the News, starting December 2nd! Join us every week from Two Buffalo Studios in Bradenton, Florida, as we bring you the latest updates on issues that matter to us all, from the Shakers to the Makers across Indian Country. This is a 29:00 minute program. Hosted by Larry K. from the Ho-Chunk Nation and his co-host Gary Wilcox from the Powatan Nation. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to me at [email protected] or visit www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/indigenous-in-the-news for all the details. If you have a story and would like to share it, contact us.
