Triston Harper, 15, from MOWA Band of Choctaw, Wows on American Idol

On "American Idol" last month, 15-year-old Triston Harper from Macintosh, Ala., showcased his immense musical talent and highlighted his Indigenous heritage as a proud member of the MOWA Band of Choctaw Indians.

Harper said in an interview on the show that he faced tough times from a young age. When he was 12, his mother left an abusive relationship, leaving them homeless. But even through these hard times, he found comfort and courage in music. It became his guiding light, helping him navigate life's challenges.

His love for music started at the age of 10, sparked by the discovery of his grandfather's Johnny Cash records, laying the foundation for his musical journey, according to his audition. Along with his grandmother's love for Elvis Presley, he found inspiration in the stage presence of these musical icons.

https://nativenewsonline.net/arts-entertainment/triston-harper-15-from-mowa-band-of-choctaw-wows-on-american-idol