Jean-Louis Vallée

Jean-Louis Vallée is an Innu artist from Pessamit who sings in Innu-aimun. Inspired by what he hears on the radio, he enjoys reinterpreting popular songs in his language. He is deeply influenced by Chris Stapleton, whom he sees as an artistic role model — a raw, genuine voice capable of touching the heart — a way of being a musician that Jean-Louis aspires to in his own way.

Influenced by artists like Clément Jacques and Louis-Jean Cormier, he has recently begun to focus on songwriting. His song “Netshelten” (“I Learned”) explores romantic relationships — the excitement of beginnings, breakups, and the lessons they bring. His second piece, “Tshi Nikamuna” (“Your Songs”), serves as an artistic coming-out, allowing him to reveal himself through music and connect with his community.

His writing process always begins with listening: he feels the music before putting words to it. Jean-Louis also hopes, in the future, to compose for other artists and contribute to their voices through his melodies.