Blackfire

Blackfire was a Native American punk rock group known for blending traditional Diné music influences with alternative rock, all wrapped in politically charged messages about government oppression and human rights. Formed by three siblings in the late 1980s, the band carved out a unique niche in the punk scene. In 2012, members went on to form the band Sihasin.

History

Beginnings (1989–1993)

Blackfire was founded in 1989 in Flagstaff, Arizona by siblings Jeneda, Klee, and Clayson Benally. Growing up in a musically rich environment; their mother was a folk singer-songwriter of Russian-Polish Jewish descent, and their father, Jones Benally, was a traditional Navajo medicine man; the siblings picked up instruments at an early age. They began playing music as children and eventually formed Blackfire, channeling their heritage and punk influences into their sound.

Release of EPs (1994–2001)

In 1994, the band worked with producer C.J. Ramone to create a five-song EP, which became their debut release on their own label, Tacoho Productions. This record featured contributions from their father Jones and Robert Tree Cody, melding traditional and modern sounds. Their efforts garnered attention, and by 1999 they received a nomination for Best Independent Release from the Native American Music Awards (NAMA).

One Nation Under and Woody Guthrie Singles (2002–2003)

By the end of 2002, Blackfire released their first full-length album, One Nation Under. The album, featuring vocal contributions from their father, presented 15 intense tracks focused on themes of struggle, resistance, and hope. The song “No Control” from the album was featured in an episode of What’s New, Scooby-Doo? Notably, Joey Ramone praised their music as “fireball punk-rock” and contributed vocals before his passing. In 2003, the band released the EP Woody Guthrie Singles, tackling subjects like war, government corruption, and social justice through protest songs.

Death of Klee Benally

Vocalist and guitarist Klee Benally, one of the founding members, passed away on December 30, 2023, at the age of 48. His contributions were central to Blackfire’s distinctive sound and political message.

Band Members

• Clayson Benally – percussion, vocals (1989–2011)
• Jeneda Benally – bass guitar, vocals (1989–2011)
• Klee Benally – vocals, guitar (1989–2011; died 2023)

Discography

• Blackfire (Five-song EP, 1994)
• Blackfire (Three-song EP, 1998)
• One Nation Under (2001)
• Woody Guthrie Singles (2003)
• Beyond Warped: Live Music Series (CD/DVD, 2005)
• [Silence] Is A Weapon (2007)
• Anthology Of Resistance (2009)