American singer-songwriter, musician, and social activist Buffy Sainte-Marie is Beverley Jean Santamaria. Born in Stoneham, Massachusetts, on February 20, 1941, she is a notable musician and activist for Indigenous rights in the US and Canada.
Early Life and Background
Beverley Jean Santamaria was born at the New England Sanatorium and Hospital in Stoneham, Massachusetts, to Winifred and Albert. Her genealogy is mostly Italian and English, but she claimed her mother, Winifred, was Mi’kmaq, which was later disputed. Raised in Massachusetts, she was drawn to music and activism early on.
Career Beginnings
Music career of Buffy Sainte-Marie began in early 1960s. She gained recognition in 1963 for her unusual voice and heartbreaking songwriting. Her music addressed love, conflict, and mysticism, and her activism was evident. Her songs about war and peace, like “Universal Soldier,” are famous.
Musical Contributions
Buffy Sainte-Marie has 15 albums. One of her most famous songs is “Up Where We Belong,” co-written with Will Jennings and Jack Nitzsche. It received the 1983 Academy Award for Best Original Song for “An Officer and a Gentleman.” Over 200 musicians in 16 languages have recorded “Until It’s Time for You to Go,” demonstrating her influence and appeal.
Social Activism
Sainte-Marie has spoken out for Indigenous rights as well as music. Her work generally addresses North American Indigenous issues. Despite controversy over her claimed Indigenous origin, she has educated people on cultural and socioeconomic issues affecting these populations.
Personal Life
Buffy Sainte-Marie married three times. Dewain Bugbee was her first husband from 1968 to 1971. She divorced Sheldon Wolfchild after marrying him in 1975. Jack Nitzsche was her third husband from 1982 till 1989. St. Marie has one child, Dakota Starblanket Wolfchild.
Controversies
Buffy Sainte-Marie’s Cree identity was questioned recently. She was deprived of Juno and Polaris Music Prizes after a CBC investigation discovered errors in her explanation. Further prizes and honours were revoked after it was proven she is not a Canadian citizen.
Despite these controversies, her artistry and advocacy continue to influence music.
Other Noteworthy Facts
- Birth: February 20, 1941, Stoneham, Massachusetts
- Nationality: American
- Career span: 1963–2023
- Major Songs: “Universal Soldier,” “Up Where We Belong,” “Until It’s Time for You to Go”
- Awards: Academy Award for Best Original Song (1983)
- Children: Dakota Starblanket Wolfchild
FAQ
Which Sainte-Marie songs are most famous?
For songs like “Universal Soldier,” “Up Where We Belong,” and “Until It’s Time for You to Go,” Buffy Sainte-Marie is famous.
Where was Beverley Jean Santamaria born?
She was born at New England Sanatorium and Hospital in Stoneham, Massachusetts.
How many albums did Buffy Sainte-Marie release?
Buffy Sainte-Marie has 15 albums.
Did Buffy Sainte-Marie play Woodstock?
Despite popular belief, Buffy Sainte-Marie did not perform at Woodstock in 1969.
Why did Buffy Sainte-Marie lose her Canadian honours?
Buffy Sainte-Marie lost her Canadian honours due to issues about her Cree origin and citizenship.
What musicians have covered “Until It’s Time for You to Go”?
Over 200 performers in 16 languages have covered “Until It’s Time for You to Go,” including Elvis Presley and Barbra Streisand.
