B-Side Guys

In a poignant homage to her heritage and personal loss, Elisapie Isaac’s latest single, “Qimatsilunga (I Want to Break Free),” redefines a Queen classic through the lens of Inuit culture and her own deeply personal narrative. Released as the final teaser from her album “Inuktitut” on September 15, this fragile yet profound cover honors a cousin whose life was tragically cut short by suicide.

Elisapie, hailing from the Arctic and proud of her Inuit roots, chose this song to remember a beloved cousin. The original, with its themes of liberation and self-acceptance, became a symbol of their bond and a source of strength for her cousin. For Elisapie, singing “Qimatsilunga” is not only a tribute but also a heartfelt farewell, infused with memories and a shared understanding of what it means to be different and marginalized.

This track is a highlight of her album, which is far more than a simple cover album. Each song, from legends like Led Zeppelin to Fleetwood Mac, is reimagined and enriched with Inuit traditions and Elisapie’s personal experiences growing up in Salluit, Quebec. Her unique perspective breathes new life into these classics, transforming them into something both familiar and entirely new.

Elisapie’s journey as a director, composer, singer-songwriter, and activist has been marked by a deep connection to her Inuit heritage. Her documentary “If the Weather Permits” introduced audiences to her origin story, and her subsequent music, including her first album with Taima and solo projects like “There Will be Stars” and “Travelling Love,” has further cemented her status as an Inuit icon. Her upcoming fourth album, “The Ballad of the Runaway Girl,” promises to be a continuation of this exploration, inspired by ancient Indigenous folk tunes and her own life experiences.

The accompanying music video for “Qimatsilunga,” directed by Philippe Léonard, is a visual narrative of liberation and the desire for freedom. Featuring contemporary dancer Simik Komaksiutiksak, it portrays the power of dance and movement to energize and inspire, creating a dialogue between the individual and the community. This concept mirrors the song’s message of resilience, strength, and the courage to embrace one’s identity.

In “Qimatsilunga (I Want to Break Free),” Elisapie offers more than a cover; she presents a story of resilience and the enduring power of music to heal and connect. This song, with its blend of personal loss, cultural identity, and the universal quest for freedom, showcases Elisapie’s remarkable ability to turn grief into a celebration of life and an invitation to embrace our true selves.

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If you liked this track, you can get the full album here: