Canyon Records recording artist and Pow-Wow singer James Wells (Kainai) of Standoff, Alberta, Canada and his three young children were killed in a tragic auto accident near Standoff on the evening of July 22. James represented the Kainai (Blood) Nation as a member of the Blackfoot Confederacy drum group and added his strong voice to many top drum groups when they called upon him. James had many friends and was well-liked throughout Pow-Wow country. His close friend and founder of the Blackfoot Confederacy drum, Jay Dusty Bull of the Blackfeet Nation echoed the deep sadness that James’ family and friends are feeling at this time, “We’re all in deep shock. James was a good singer and a good human being. He was strong-hearted and enjoyed making the other guys in the group laugh at Pow-Wows. We are all at a loss of words. The Blackfoot Confederacy drum wants to express their sincere thanks to all who have shared their prayers and support at this tough time. The group will take a break for a short period but we will come back and continue to sing the way we always did when James was with us.” Everyone at Canyon Records mourns the tragic and untimely passing of James and his children.