Shawnee Kish Announces Debut Full-Length Album

Multiple JUNO-nominated artist and acclaimed singer-songwriter Shawnee Kish has announced her debut full-length album Chapter 1 will be released July 25. Shawnee has been a pro for so long, we can’t believe this is her first full-length. Chapter 1 is a deeply personal collection of stories that capture the struggles, joys, and pivotal moments that have shaped her life and artistry.

While Chapter 1 spans genres and defies easy classification, the single “Tequila Knows Me” taps into Kish’s deep-rooted connection to country, a sound she grew up on. Written in under ten minutes during an impromptu acoustic session, the song delivers a tequila-sipping swagger, slick guitar work, and Kish’s signature vocal depth. 

Chapter 1 weaves country roots, soulful vocals, and a gritty rock edge into a genre-blending, emotionally resonant debut; one that reflects the ongoing evolution of an artist who leads with intention and truth. From raw portraits of survival to anthems of self-acceptance and tenacity, the album offers an unguarded exploration of identity, queerness, faith, and healing; weaving together new material with select tracks from her early 2025 EP Pray For Me. 

A proud Two-Spirit Mohawk artist, Shawnee has built a reputation for powerful, purpose-driven storytelling. Her work has earned widespread acclaim and multiple accolades, including two nominations at the 2024 JUNO Awards, including Adult Alternative Album of the Year and Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year. With Chapter 1, Shawnee Kish delivers her most impactful work yet — a fearless debut that honours where she’s been, embraces who she is, and boldly claims space for what’s still to come.

Stream Tequila Knows Me here.

 Press release courtesy of Red Umbrella PR.