Tyler Childers Reevaluates Performance of “Feathered Indians”
Tyler Childers recently shared that he has stepped back from performing one of his most cherished songs, “Feathered Indians,” due to concerns about possibly offending Native Americans.
In a conversation with GQ, published on July 24th, Childers detailed the thought process that led to his decision. The track, which appeared on his influential 2017 album, Purgatory, played a significant role in his rise to fame; however, he hasn’t played live since 2020.
“If there’s a discussion among those involved about using that word, then I feel like it’s not my place to weigh in,” he expressed.
Instead of simply shelving the song, Childers and his wife, Senora, have chosen to support Native American communities by donating royalties from “Feathered Indians” through the Hickman Horror Appalachian Relief Fund.
Childers penned the song during his younger years, reflecting on experiences he had, such as mentioning a red man chewing on a buckle from a cigarette belt he owned.
The lyrics include, “My buckle makes an impression on the inside of her thighs.”
He shared that he wanted to show respect, particularly towards a Blackfoot individual named Sean, acknowledging the discomfort that may arise in such discussions.
“This song contains some of my favorite lines and melodies I’ve ever created,” he admitted, clearly emotional.
Childers conveyed that not performing the song is an effort to encourage deeper reflection among listeners.
