As Canadian Music Week gets underway, we hear that the conference has been sold to new owners

For the last 42 years, Canadian Music Week has been the property of Neill Dixon who shepherded it through many different incarnations. Now, though, he’s ready to retire. That means he was ready to sell CMW and all its trappings to someone who willing to carry on.

The buyers are Loft Entertainment (an entertainment company led by Randy Lennox, former head of Universal Music Canada and Bell Media) and Oak View Group, “a global leader in venue development, management, hospitality services and 360-degree solutions.” It’s also the owner of Pollstar, the trade publication that keeps tab on the touring music industry. They’re also big investors in the refurbishment of the FirstOntario Centre in Hamilton.

The change in ownership was effective at 10 am Monday, June 3.

According to the press release, the new owners have this vision for CMW:

“The acquisition promises to bring exciting changes and innovations to Canadian Music Week, including expanded programming, enhanced venues, and unique engagement opportunities for artists and fans. Both Loft Entertainment and Oak View Group are committed to preserving the festival’s heritage while introducing fresh, dynamic elements that reflect the evolving music landscape.

“Canadian Music Week will continue to be headquartered in Toronto, with upcoming dates and details for the 2025 festival to be announced soon. The teams at Loft Entertainment and Oak View Group are already hard at work planning the next chapter of CMW, ensuring it remains a cornerstone event in the global music industry.”