Wayuhi’s Latest Album, Bygoner: A Dive into Self-Reflection and Vulnerability
Wayuhi’s newest album, Bygoner, delves into some of his most personal and introspective songs to date, focusing on themes of self-reflection and vulnerability, particularly in the context of love and lust. As a Two-Spirit artist, Wayuhi candidly shares that the inspiration behind Bygoner stemmed from his past experiences during his “side-ho era.” He reflects on falling for individuals who were emotionally unavailable, prompting him to confront what this pattern reveals about himself. Additionally, Wayuhi aimed to enhance his songwriting and bass-playing skills, shaping the album to serve as a creative exercise in honing these talents.
The title track, “Bygoner,” sees Wayuhi bidding a catchy farewell to an ex-flame, asserting, “Your forgiveness ain’t my business anymore. Don’t have a clue what I’m doing, but at least I’m doing me.” In “The Sunroof Song,” he sings about the struggle of moving on from someone, lamenting, “Ain’t it something when you move on, and you just want what you don’t need anymore.”
Intertwined with his personal narratives, Wayuhi infuses elements of his Native culture into the album, often laced with humor. In his track “Suckerz,” featuring Awu, he humorously references his Native identity, urging, “Girl, you’re Native—what are you doing sitting on your ass. Do you not know that you can get into any national park for free?”
Beyond his distinctive sound, Wayuhi’s personal style shines through during his live performances, a spectacle not to be missed at events like the annual Santa Fe Indian Market, where he also graces the runway. Embodying a colorful wardrobe adorned with eclectic prints, beadwork jewelry, and plenty of sleeveless shirts, Wayuhi’s fashion choices reflect a blend of thrifted finds and pieces from contemporary Indigenous designers like Jamie Okuma. Describing his style as unpredictable, novel, and rooted in the thrill of hunting for unique pieces, Wayuhi cherishes one-of-a-kind garments not for their price tag but for the stories behind their acquisition.
