Music News

JUNOFest hitting Toronto starting April 21

The JUNOs aren’t for another month but the party is starting soon, with CBC Music JUNOFest kicking off on April 21, an annual celebration making its triumphant return after two years and filling Toronto venues with outstanding performances. 

Tickets are available now at junofest.ca to see more than 35 performers, including the opening show featuring nominees Afrikana Soul Sister, Beny Esguerra and New Tradition Music, Donné Roberts and Moonshine at the Frequencies Showcase at Lula Lounge on April 21.  

“CBC Music JUNOFest will have the city bustling this spring as we celebrate the best in Canadian music. This year’s concerts feature performances from an array of JUNO nominees and top talent spanning a diverse selection of genres. The shows are a great way to discover some incredible local and national artists,” says Allan Reid, president and CEO of the CARAS/The JUNO Award. 

The revenue pulled in from select shows will go to the MusiCounts Band Aid Program in honor of MusiCount’s 25th anniversary. 

Special showcase events will take place at a variety of Toronto venues, including Lula Lounge on Dundas Street West, Supermarket on Augusta Avenue, Baby G on Dundas Street West, CODA on Bathurst Street, The Garrison on Dundas Street West, Lee’s Palace on Bloor Street West, with additional shows to be announced for Baby G and at the Junction Brewery on Symes Road. 

There will also be live performances at Pearson International Airport, including local musicians in Terminal One.

This year also brings the return of the JUNO Comedy Show, slated for Friday, May 13, with sets at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at the Comedy Bar on Bloor Street. The show is hosted by Allison Dore with sets from Andrea Jin, Hisham Kelati, Keith Pedro and Gavin Stephens.

There’s also the Jazz Showcase, scheduled for Friday, May 6, starting at 8 p.m. at Supermarket. Performers include Amanda Tosoff, Avatar, Caity Gyorgy, Elizabeth Shepherd & Michael Occhipinti (Es:Mo) and Jesse Ryan. 

The full schedule of JUNOFest shows will be available in the next few weeks.

Amber Healy

I write about music policy and lawsuits because they're endlessly fascinating.

Amber Healy has 525 posts and counting. See all posts by Amber Healy

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