While on his deathbed, Michael Bucher’s uncle had a request.

“Do something with your talent” he told Butcher. Since that day, that is exactly what he has done.

By way of his music, Bucher honors Earth and reaches out to inspire young people to do great things. He sings songs about sacred Native American sites and legends of the Cherokee.

At 6 p.m. on Monday, in the Bowman Auditorium at Ohio University Southern, Bucher will sing and speak about his first-hand experiences as part of the university’s Diversity Lecture and Performance Series.

“He is one of today’s most influential Native American folk-rock musicians,” Robert Pleasant, OUS coordinator of diversity and inclusion, said. “His music and personal story are testaments to his convictions and passions as an artist.”

Prominent in the Native American community, Bucher has won several awards and been nominated for many more for both his music and public speaking. He released his first album in 2007 titled “Seven” and released albums in 2009 and 2010. Both albums earned Bucher several high-profile award nominations and wins.

“His music has received considerable airplay on nationally syndicated radio programs,” Pleasant said. “His songs have appeared in award-winning documentaries and on a compilation album to raise awareness about homelessness.”

Bucher won his third Native American Music Award in 2011 and won “Best Music Video or Film” at the 14th annual Native American Film Festival.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information contact Pleasant at 740-533-4600 or by email at pleasantr@ohio.edu.