Singer
Songwriter
& Composer
Mimi O’Bonsawin is a contemporary roots singer-songwriter born in Northeastern Ontario and is mixed French Canadian & Abénaki,a member of Odanak First-Nation. Through her rhythm and story-driven songs, Mimi’s music embraces the beauty of Land. The ethereal quality of her music whisks you away with uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics that weave pop sensibilities with acoustic instruments. The layers of percussion and surprising harmonies make you feel the music rather than just hear it.
A prolific songwriter, Mimi put out 2 full length albums in 2023. ‘Willow’ March 3rd & Boréale September 29th.
“Making music and growing food is very much the same. They both start with a seed, and with proper care, can grow into a beautiful garden that we all can share. I put intention and love into every seed and every note,” Mimi says.
WILLOW
2023 Release
BORÉALE
2023 Release
Live in Concert
2024 Release
Pincez-moi quelqu'un. Munie d’une paire d’ailes, une harpe en bandoulière, O'Bonsawin nous a administré une bonne dose de ce qu’elle appelle « Music as medicine ». Sa voix à la fois cristalline et vigoureuse a traversé nos corps émus.
- Roslie Chretien ATUVU.CA
Mimi has such a clear, resonant voice, occasionally going to vibrato but always controlled – the effect is there when she wants it. Mimi O’Bonsawin – an earth mother of the highest order. - Bev Kreller - Roots Music Canada
“She takes you to her special place … where the northern lights always shine and the forest is a cosmic garden filled with story and song” - Tom Coxworth- Folk Routes CKUA
"Mimi is such a pleasure to work with! The on-stage performance is much the same. It's like a big hug, and everybody needs one of those these days.” - Jeff Bray -Cultivate Festival
"Mimi and her team adhered to the planned schedule flawlessly, delivering an outstanding performance that left our clients thoroughly impressed. The entire band displayed great camaraderie, and their energy was nothing short of exceptional.”- Ottawa Summit
“Mimi was a delight to have on our outdoor stage. Mimi knew exactly how to engage with our all-ages audience through her music and stories, and left the crowd with a much-needed “feel-good” feeling”-Astrid Varnes, Wednesday on the Wharf community concert series, Salmon Arm
“There’s a lovable directness to O’Bonsawin’s words, through which she presents the idea of nurturing a simple wish for a different life and the hope that this wish might be fulfilled.” - Americana UK (on “I Wish I Was a Farmer”)