Buffy Sainte-Marie wins Polaris Music Prize

Saskatchewan-born music iconBuffySainte-Marie won thePolaris Music Prize tonightfor heralbumPower in the Blood.

"I've got an Academy Award and a Golden Globe, a couple of Junos and a Gemini Award this is the only one I ever heard that gives the artist money. It's real important, it's becoming almost impossible for an artist to tour with a band and with instruments," the musician said.

"I've had tremendous support. I'm 74. I've made 20 albums,"Sainte-Mariesaid while interrupted by loud applause and a standing ovation at the awards gala."And I thank you very much because this one got heard."

Sainte-Mariehas been making music and making waves by celebrating her indigenous culture for five decades. Shewas born on thePiapotFirst Nation to Cree parentsand later adopted by an American couple.