Often, I get an earworm – a catchy tune that gets stuck inside my head that stays with me for a while. The last earworm I got was a song I’m sure I heard in my childhood called “Come and Get Your Love” released in 1974 by a group called Redbone.  Why this song, at this time?  Who knows for sure how the facets of the mind work?  Of course, me being me, I had to do the research.

Redbone is a pioneering Native American rock band, a group whose music and legacy have carved a distinctive niche in both Native American and mainstream pop culture. Known for their infectious grooves, powerful harmonies, and a sound that draws from rock, funk, R&B, and traditional Native rhythms, Redbone stands as a symbol of both creative innovation and cultural pride.

The origins of Redbone trace back to the late 1960s in Los Angeles, California. Brothers Pat and Lolly Vegas (born Patrick and Candido Vasquez-Vegas) were musicians of Yaqui, Shoshone, and Mexican heritage. Both were accomplished session musicians and songwriters, having already written and performed with artists such as Tina Turner and Little Richard. Inspired by the growing civil rights and Native pride movements of the era, the Vegas brothers sought to create a band that not only showcased their musical talents but also celebrated their Indigenous roots.

The name "Redbone" itself is a nod to their mixed ancestry—"redbone" being a Cajun term for a person of mixed Native American and African American heritage. The band came together in 1969, with the Vegas brothers recruiting fellow Native musicians Tony Bellamy (Yaqui and Mexican descent) on lead guitar and Peter DePoe (Makah) on drums. From the outset, Redbone distinguished themselves by performing in full Native regalia, incorporating Native languages and rhythms into their songs, and addressing issues relevant to Indigenous people.

Redbone holds a unique place in Native American history and culture, being the first Native American band to achieve major commercial success in the United States and internationally. Their music was not just entertainment; it served as a vessel for Native pride and visibility at a time when Indigenous voices were largely absent from mainstream media.

Songs like “We Were All Wounded at Wounded Knee” addressed the painful history of Native Americans in the United States, including the 1890 massacre at Wounded Knee. While controversial and even banned on some U.S. radio stations, the song became a hit in Europe, sparking conversations about historical injustices and the need for recognition and reconciliation.

Redbone’s presence and success paved the way for later generations of Native musicians, inspiring pride within Indigenous communities and providing an example of how Native artists could maintain their cultural identity while engaging with popular culture. Their influence can be traced in the works of contemporary Native musicians who blend traditional sounds with modern pop.

Beyond their significance to Native American culture, Redbone’s impact on pop culture is far-reaching. Their most famous song, "Come and Get Your Love," (my earworm) released in 1974, became a top five hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple of classic rock radio. Its catchy bassline, upbeat melody, and infectious chorus have led to its revival in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials.

In recent years, the song gained renewed prominence after being featured in the opening scene of Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014), introducing Redbone’s music to a new generation of listeners. "Come and Get Your Love" has since become synonymous with feel-good moments and retro cool, cementing Redbone’s place in the pantheon of American pop music.

Redbone’s ability to blend genres—rock, funk, R&B, disco, and traditional Native sounds—distinguished them from their contemporaries. Their flair for showmanship, combined with a commitment to social issues, made them icons not only within Indigenous circles but also among fans of eclectic and influential music.

Redbone enjoyed several chart successes in the 1970s, with a string of memorable hits:

        “Come and Get Your Love” (1974): Their signature song, a top five hit in the U.S. that sold over a million copies and remains their best-known work.

        “The Witch Queen of New Orleans” (1971): A song inspired by the legendary voodoo priestess Marie Laveau. It was a top 40 hit in the United States and reached No. 2 in the United Kingdom, highlighting Redbone’s international appeal.

        “Wovoka” (1973): The title track from their album, referencing the Paiute prophet Wovoka and the Ghost Dance movement. The song mixes Native musical influences with pop and rock elements.

        “We Were All Wounded at Wounded Knee” (1973): While controversial, this single was highly influential and remains a powerful protest song.

In addition to these, Redbone’s albums—Redbone (1970), Potlatch (1970), Message from a Drum (1971), and Wovoka (1973)—are celebrated for their adventurous spirit and exploration of Indigenous themes

Redbone’s sound is a vibrant fusion of musical traditions. The Vegas brothers were influenced by early rock and roll, R&B, funk, and the “Chicano rock” movement, as well as Native American chants, rhythms, and storytelling. Their music often features a driving beat, prominent basslines, layered harmonies, and lyrics that weave together Native themes with universal human experiences.

The band cited artists such as Fats Domino, Bo Diddley, and Elvis Presley as early inspirations, but their work also reflects the funk of Sly and the Family Stone and the soul of Motown. What sets Redbone apart is the way they adapted these influences to tell stories rooted in Indigenous heritage, making their music both unique and deeply personal.

The classic lineup of Redbone in the early 1970s included:

        Pat Vegas (Patrick Vasquez-Vegas): Bassist and vocalist, one of the founding brothers and the creative force behind much of Redbone’s songwriting.

        Lolly Vegas (Candido Vasquez-Vegas): Guitarist, keyboardist, and vocalist. Lolly’s guitar work and vocals were central to the band’s sound.

        Tony Bellamy: Lead guitarist and vocalist, known for his energetic stage presence.

        Peter DePoe: Drummer, who developed Redbone’s trademark “King Kong” drumming style, characterized by syncopated beats and Native-inspired rhythms.

Over time, the lineup changed, with musicians such as Arturo Perez and Butch Rillera joining the group in later years. Sadly, Lolly Vegas passed away in 2010, Tony Bellamy in 2009, and Peter DePoe also left the band long ago. Pat Vegas continues to lead Redbone, keeping the band’s spirit alive.

Despite the passage of time and the loss of original members, Redbone continues to perform. Pat Vegas, as the remaining founding member, leads a new lineup that pays tribute to Redbone’s legacy and introduces their music to new audiences. They have played at Native American festivals, cultural events, and rock venues, ensuring that Redbone’s message endures.

The enduring popularity of “Come and Get Your Love” and the rediscovery of their catalog by new listeners have helped sustain interest in the band. Their official website and social media platforms announce tours and special appearances, and their music remains widely available on streaming service.

Redbone’s influence transcends music. They are cultural trailblazers who challenged stereotypes and broke through barriers, using music as a form of activism and storytelling. Their success opened doors for other Native American artists and changed the narrative around Indigenous representation in popular culture.

Their songs have been covered and sampled by numerous artists, and their presence in film soundtracks has given them a multigenerational audience. Redbone remains not only a symbol of musical excellence but also of resilience, creativity, and pride in Native American identity.

In the tapestry of American music, Redbone’s vibrant threads are unmistakable—bold, rhythmic, and indelibly woven into the fabric of history.