Donita large & the small band

BLUES, ROCK & COUNTRY - FOLK with Indigenous sizzle

Whether billed as Donita Large or Donita Large & The Small Band, she has hit the music scene at full force, delivering a captivating blend of original and cover songs that transcend genres and serve every musical taste. Fusing the soulful essence of folk, blues, rock and Indigenous influences, Donita’s original compositions deeply honor her Cree ancestry, weaving themes of truth, reconciliation, strength, healing and unity.

Since the release of her chart-topping debut single, which soared to #1 on the Indigenous Music Countdown, Donita Large has quickly become a sought-after performer, gracing the stages of prestigious festivals and events. She has shared her powerful voice at the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, RavenWood Music Festival, Taste of Edmonton, Toronto's Nuit Blanche, and the K-Days Indigenous Showcase. 

With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Donita is a seasoned singer whose career began early in life. A founding member of the Indigenous women’s acapella groups Asani and Nipisiy, Donita has performed on renowned stages like Carnegie Hall, the Edmonton Folk Music Festival and lent her powerful voice to Johnny Reid’s choir at the Canadian Country Music Association Awards. 

Her highly anticipated album, “The Ancestors,” released in January 2026, and her sold‑out album‑release concert at the Westbury Theatre (Fringe Theatre) in Edmonton further solidify her place as an influential artist dedicated to bringing cultural consciousness and healing through her music. Her ability to connect deeply with her audience and her undeniable stage presence have made her a standout in the indie music scene. Accompanied by world class musicians, the new album tour of "The Ancestors" is one you don't want to miss! One fan wrote on Donita Large Music Facebook page after the concert, "Donita's vocals and the talented band that accompanied her left for an absolutely mind blowing evening".

Whether you're looking for an intimate acoustic experience or a festival ready full-band performance with powerful energy, Donita Large & The Small Band are sure to leave you wanting "one more song!"

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the ancestors album tour

currently booking for the 2026 season

The creation of The Ancestors is a masterclass in collaboration, bringing together industry legends to craft a sound that is both timeless and urgent. Donita partnered with Grammy winning producer Chris Birkett and the versatile musical artistry of Anthony King to produce a record that seamlessly blends a landscape of folk, blues, rock, country, and Cree traditional sounds. Recorded across studios in Toronto, Los Angeles, and ending at Riverdale Recorders in Edmonton, the album features a band of world-class musicians whose collective artistry creates an unforgettable auditory experience. This record represents a defining moment in Donita’s evolution, merging her powerful low range and spine-chilling high notes with compelling narratives that resonate in your body and soul.

Music & live video snapshot

Sweetgrass

Donita Large

“Sweetgrass”, a gentle acoustic invitation on balance, gratitude, and ancestral guidance. Layered with warm guitar, deep upright bass tones, hand drum heartbeats, Donita’s heartfelt vocals of “Mind, body, and spirit / All Read more

“Sweetgrass”, a gentle acoustic invitation on balance, gratitude, and ancestral guidance. Layered with warm guitar, deep upright bass tones, hand drum heartbeats, Donita’s heartfelt vocals of “Mind, body, and spirit / All connected as one” are not just words; they are a bridge to her Cree traditions, communicating a path to healing and spirit. This song is the first track on "The Ancestors" album.

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Edmonton Fringe Festival Main Stage

"Songs of Reconciliation" Concert

Ravenwood Music Festival

Press / Reviews