Brian Knockwood — [ windspeaker confidential ]

Windspeaker: What one quality do you most value in a friend?

Brian Knockwood: One quality that I value most in a friend is being there when I need them. Whether it is a shoulder to cry on after getting dumped by my snag, or if I am in need of a wing man for the following weekend, it really means a lot to me if I can depend on them to be there when needed. Especially if I’m short a few bucks for an Indian Taco.

W: What is it that really makes you mad?
B.K.: What really makes me mad is being lied to. Another thing that makes me really mad is when I’m at the Tim Horton’s drive through window, and realize that all I have on me is my debit card.

W:  When are you at your happiest?
B.K.: I am most happy when I’m on the road. I love being on the trail and travelling with the drum. Everything just feels right as if I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing.

W: What one word best describes you when you are at your worst?
B.K.: Naughty

W:  What one person do you most admire and why?
B.K.: The one person that I most admire is my son Bryson. He is highly motivated, and is a natural leader. Even though he is only 12, he’s an old soul. He is very wise and just comes up with the right things to say when you least expect them. I feel so much of my grandfather’s spirit in him. My son is a true gift to my world.

W: What is the most difficult thing you’ve ever had to do?
B.K.: The most difficult thing I had to do was to let go of the one I loved.

W: What is your greatest accomplishment?
B.K.: Trying my best to raise my son with the teachings and values that my grandfather had taught to me.

W:  What one goal remains out of reach?
B.K.: One goal that remains out of reach is becoming chief. Even though I haven’t run yet, I will one day become chief of our rez. I’m just waiting for the right time.

W:  If you couldn’t do what you’re doing today, what would you be doing?
B.K.: If I couldn’t do what I was doing today, I’d be a stand-up comedian. I love making people laugh.  Maybe I could be Clarence Two-Toes’ side kick!

W:  What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
B.K.: The best piece of advice I’ve ever received was when my bro told me “Hey bro, she’s your cousin.”

W: Did you take it?
B.K.: After some thought, Yes! I didn’t go for her. So he ended up snaggin’ her… ayeeeeh! What a guy!

W: How do you hope to be remembered?
B.K.: I hope to be remembered as the guy who everyone liked and could count on. My friends, family, and drum really mean a lot to me. I live my life not only for my son and I, but also for my people. I love to share my gifts and beautiful experiences with those who are close to me.

Brian Knockwood is a proud Mi’kmaq from the Indian Brook First Nation in Nova Scotia. When he is not singing with his drum group Eastern Eagle, who have several CDs, he can be found working as a community Addictions Prevention Worker. Brian is a single father who is currently in the final year of his Bachelor of Arts in Mi’kmaq Studies at the Cape Breton University.