Métis singer proud to represent at Olympics

Country singer Donny Parenteau didn't think much about his informal chat with
a nice man wearing a suit following his performance at a recent meeting of the
premiers of the western provinces.
He was reminded of that short chat earlier
this year when he received an invitation to perform at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver.
"I was talking to this guy who said 'I should bring you out for the Vancouver Olympics,' " said Parenteau, a Métis singer-songwriter from Prince Albert.
Later, he learned he was talking to British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell. He also learned the suggestion was valid after he received his official invitation from the Vancouver organizing committee for the
Games.
"I didn't even realize who I was talking to. But when I realized who it was, I didn't think about it much because I assumed it was just small talk," he said.
Since the news of his invitation became public last month ­he has actually known for several months ­Parenteau has been bubbling-over with pride because he was picked to represent his province, as well as those of his own Métis heritage.
"I am representing the town of Prince Albert, the province of Saskatchewan, and if you look at it deeper, my country," he said. "I take a lot of pride in events like that because I feel like I'm representing my province."
He acknowledges that his deep appreciation of his Métis heritage is what put the proverbial icing on the cake for organizers, who apparently liked Parenteau's unique approach to country music and his take on his background.
"When I was a little kid, I used to hide it. I didn't like being called a half-breed," he said. "I tell people that Métis people don't hide any more. And that's my message."
His performance is slated for February 23, a time that has been set aside for a celebration of all things Saskatchewan during the Games. Parenteau will be performing at The Ozone club in Richmond, a 10,000 seat hall that will certainly be filled with fun-seekers.
Parenteau was also thrilled he was asked to bring his entire band along with him for the show. He had assumed he would be performing alone.
"To have my band there, all expenses paid, is something else. It's great."
His band includes bass player Blaine Yandt, drummer Ron Samson, guitar players Rob Anderson and Mike Given,
pianist Grant Sotnikow, as well as soundman Tony Fitzgerald.
Parenteau calls this one of the most important shows of his career.
"I look back on all the years of performing, and now I have one hour to show them what I can do - this show that I am about to do, I am going to give it that much more." He said everything he does, he does straight from the heart. "And I think that just comes from my culture," he added.
Those wanting more information about
Parenteau can go to his website www.donnyparenteau.net.