Doc Native has been nominated for a 2024 Native American Music Award (NAMA) in the best Rap recording category for his song “Tear the Walls Down.”

Founded in 1998, NAMA is a music industry organization dedicated to Native American music. Its mission is to promote cultural preservation and renewal through new music initiatives. Its annual awards ceremony is modeled on other national music awards shows.

Nominees are chosen by the NAMA nominating committee. There are 116 nominees in 13 categories this year, but winners are chosen by NAMA members and the general public. Anyone may cast votes at the NAMA website. Native found out he was nominated for “Tear the Walls Down” on Nov. 8.

“The song is a something a little different from what I usually do,” Native said. “I like to keep progressing in my music.”

The premise of the song is about hitting a glass ceiling and then breaking through it. Native believes Native people have hit that glass ceiling when it comes to music.

“I want to break through it and hear more Native people on the radio. We are breaking through in movies and TV, but I’d like to see it in music too. The song can be for all people, though, not just Natives. It’s about breaking through ceilings and tearing down walls, which comes with responsibility and a lot of hard work. You have to really persevere and stay strong and clear about your goals.”

This isn’t Native’s first time as a nominee for the awards; he was nominated for his Rap song and video “Buss Down” and he and his brother Spencer Battiest were nominated for their Pop song “Dream” and video “The Storm: Live from Home.”

They won the award for the video. Native is a songwriter and a producer. One of the songs he wrote and produced is also up for a NAMA award in the R&B category. Artist Ray Viktoria (Caddo) is nominated for “Stay for a While.”

Native has been writing for and producing for a lot of up and coming and established Native artists.

“I have a real passion for younger artists who are really invested in their careers,” Native said. “I like to lend my knowledge and musical abilities to help them achieve their goals. It’s really fulfilling to see some of these artists come into their own. When I was coming up, I had mentors and I want to keep that going.”

Native appreciates all the support from people who listen to his music and have supported him through his journey and career.

“They and everyone in their households can vote every day and spread the word about [the NAMA awards] as much as they can on social media and in all the communities,” Native said. “Let’s bring another one home.”

To listen to nominees’ tracks and cast votes, go to nativeamericanmusicawards.com.