NEWS

Niki Kennedy: I Don't Think About You Award-winning Pasifika singer-songwriter Niki Kennedy channels the quiet aftermath of a toxic relationship on I Don't Think About You, a deeply personal reflection on grief, healing, and rediscovering self-worth. Born and raised in Aotearoa, New Zealand, and now based in Toronto, her honest approach to storytelling explores themes of identity, belonging, and human connection that define her forthcoming album, The Space In Between. Written

Cameron Nickerson: ‘The Wagon’ Mini-Doc Director Nathaniel Cole pulls back the curtain on Nova Scotian bluegrass artist Cameron Nickerson in this mini-doc about the making of his latest album, The Wagon. "Riding the Rails to Sobriety" explores the creative process behind the record while sharing Cameron's personal journey through sobriety from alcohol, resilience and self-discovery through music. Through candid storytelling and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers gain a deeper

Close Kicks: Somewhere Lost - Acoustic Somewhere Lost - Acoustic is a re-imagined version that explores jealousy, insecurity, and emotional dependence. Built around intimate storytelling and a melancholic atmosphere, this acoustic version will sit well with your morning coffee. Click here for more info

Rebekah Hawker: Taking a Look In Folk singer-songwriter Rebekah Hawker is back with a magnetic new single, "Taking a Look In," out now via Victory Pool Records. The track pulls you straight into a sweltering dive bar at the dead of summer, a song about desire, that intense and almost desperate pull toward someone you know nothing about but suddenly need to. With echoes of The Chicks and Shania Twain, it's the kind of song best consumed at full volume on the drive to wherever

In this episode we chat with the Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest, Mercedes Caxaj. Mercedes takes us behind-the-scenes of creating a diverse and internationally focused music festival. She shares the story of how Sunfest began, how they bring artists from around the world to the stage, and the work involved in producing a free-admission festival. We also discuss how representation and community engagement shape the festival’s mission and create opportunities for artists and au

Satellite Birdhouse: Self-Titled Debut Album Ottawa's award-winning Satellite Birdhouse just released their eponymous debut album, featuring everything from heartfelt ballads straight through to post-apocalyptic folk rock. Praised by Apt613 for “an infectious playfulness with the crowd,” they're looking forward to bringing that energy and celebrating this release with a full band set on July 9 at Ottawa Bluesfest. Click here for more info

Loch Nisse Monster: The Aftermath Tour Loch Nisse Monster is heading back on the road with The Aftermath Tour, a new run of shows celebrating the next chapter of her acclaimed debut album, Forensis. Following a breakout year of festival appearances, headline performances, and growing recognition across Canada's folk and indie-rock scenes, the Ottawa artist is bringing her live show to audiences across the country. TOUR DATES Fri, Jun 26 - M for Montréal - Montréal, QC Sat, Ju

Kunlé - The Journey Dora Award-winning Toronto singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist and producer Kunlé announces June 26, 2026, as the release date for his highly anticipated new album ‘Kunlé – The Journey’ (via DistroKid), and celebrates with a new lyric video for “So Dear” and his album release concert at Small World Centre in Toronto on Thursday, June 25. Tickets here https://tickets.smallworldmusic.com/e/event-template-7 His sophomore album, ‘Kunlé – The Journey,’ will

Mistaken for Wayne: Whitefish Mistaken for Wayne presents new single “Whitefish” with accompanying video out on June 25th, and announces debut LP out on September 25th. Mistaken for Wayne is the project of Northern Ontario farmer and musician Wade Montpellier, created in collaboration with close friends and longtime musical partners. Following the 2024 release of the EP “This Time of Year”, the group is set to release their debut full-length album “Whitefish”. Rooted deeply i

Kellylee Evans Receives Honorary Doctorate of Music Juno Award-winning singer-songwriter Kellylee Evans has received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Carleton University, where she delivered the convocation address to graduating students on June 10. A Carleton alumna, Evans was recognized for her distinguished musical career and the perseverance she has demonstrated throughout her personal and professional journey. Over the course of a career spanning more than two dec

David Francey @ Kelowna Folk Roots Music Society Wednesday, July 29, 2026 Ukrainian Catholic Church Hall - Kelowna, BC David Francey has now stood in the vanguard of Canadian folk music for the best part of 30 years. “An outstanding songwriter,” as Hockey Night in Canada host Ron MacLean described him. A late starter, the former house carpenter released his debut album, Torn Screen Door, in his mid-forties. Thirteen discs followed, which earned an incredible five Juno Awards

Songbird Coven: Summer Bash & Fundraiser Sunday, July 26, 2026 - 6:00 pm Broadway Prince of Wales - Ottawa, ON Hosted by: Rox Anne, Sam Davs Feat: Emma Lamontagne, Almyr Jules, Chase Van Dusen, TANAEYA, Gabrielle Goulet, Sam Wood Free Event! Help support local songwriters & artists— Because great songs deserve to be heard! The Songbird Coven Songwriter Series is having its 2nd Annual Summer Bash & Fundraiser on July 26th, 2026, in Ottawa, ON, at Broadway Bar & Grill Prince o

Sarah Segal Lazar & The Butcher Hearts: Summer 2026 Canadian Tour Sarah Segal-Lazar and the Butcher Hearts are hitting the road! Touring to seven provinces this summer, check out the Folk Femme Fatale in a city near you! “Sarah Segal-Lazar is one to watch. And damn, can she sing!” - CultMTL Sat Jun 27 - Rebel Garage - Victoria, BC Mon Jun 29 - 39 Days of July - Duncan, BC Sun Jul 5 - The Drake Inn - Canmore, AB Wed Jul 8 - Revy.Live Outside - Revelstoke, BC Sat Jul 25 - Mun

In this episode, we chat with Mick Janzen of the folk trio The Janzen Boys. Mick shares his journey from busking to full-time touring, and dives into the DIY digital marketing strategies he uses to build his audience, drive ticket sales, and strengthen direct connections with fans. He breaks down how independent artists can use social media, targeted advertising, and online tools to grow their reach, create opportunities, and build a sustainable career. Listen to Refolkus:...

Ian Bell @ The Coulson Concerts Sunday, June 28 - 2 pm Coulson Church - Oro-Medonte, ON Tickets $25 The Coulson Concerts presents Ian Bell: songwriter, storyteller, folksinger and multi-instrumentalist. Ian has performed across Canada and in the United States since the late 1970s. On his own and with a number of different ensembles, he has appeared at numerous folk festivals and in concerts and dances in venues ranging from The Lincoln Center to the finest Ontario barns. Ian

Sophie d'Orléans: Collages Collages is the debut EP from Franco-Ontarian singer-songwriter and producer, Sophie d'Orléans. Across five indie-pop songs with folk influences, she weaves together fragments of lived experience around one central theme: learning to feel at home within yourself. Through relationships, uncertainty, wonder, and personal growth, the project blends heartfelt storytelling with comforting melodies that invite listeners to find pieces of their own story.

Daniel Raymond: Peterborough Release: June 18, 2026 Oshawa, Ontario Singer-Songwriter Daniel Raymond will release a new single 'Peterborough', on June 18, 2026. The song looks back to Raymond's musical formative years in the city — and how they continue to propel him forward. Recorded and produced by Jim Bryson at Fixed Hinge Studio (Stittsville, ON), featuring Peter Von Althen on drums. The release will be accompanied by a video directed by Donald Fraser/Around the Fire Pro

Agneya: Teleology Toronto-based percussionist and composer Agneya releases “Teleology,” the first single from his debut album AGNEYA, arriving September 18, 2026. Rooted in a South Indian Konnakol (vocal percussion) phrase and shaped by influences from jazz, folk, and global groove traditions, the track explores rhythm as a meeting place between cultures and communities. Produced by JUNO Award-winning pianist Jeremy Ledbetter and featuring a collective of artists connected th

Cécile Doo-Kingué: Summer Tour Electrifying Guitarist and Songwriter Cécile Doo-Kingué Ignites Stages Across Canada with Summer Tour Armed with blistering guitar work, magnetic stage presence and an irresistible groove, Cécile Doo-Kingué is set to light up festival stages across Canada this summer. Here's where to catch her powerful blend of blues, afro-roots and soul, live: TOUR DATES Saturday, Jun 13 - Festival Solstice - Saint-Georges QC - w/ Nadine Altounji Friday, Jun

In this episode, we sit down with music agent Nicole Rochefort. We discuss the artist-agent relationship, what agents look for when signing new clients, the importance of community and networking, and why artists need to think like entrepreneurs. Nicole also shares practical advice on self-promotion, audience development, balancing life on the road, and creating a long-term career that leaves room for both growth and rest. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/su

summersets: Pine Trees in a Perfect Row summersets, the duo of Kalle Mattson and Andrew Sowka, announce their upcoming album, Pine Trees in a Perfect Row, out August 28, 2026. The album was written “to be a (complicated) love letter to Northern Ontario and small town Canadian identity and experience,” explains Mattson. “It's a collection of songs about real Canadian stories, and a character study of a landscape and place that is rarely written about in popular music. Click he

momondays @ Harmony Hall A Concert? A Play? Or A Masterclass for Singer-Songwriters? momondays Monday, August 24 - Harmony Hall - Gormley, ON Apply to Perform in the link above! The next momondays is back at Harmony Hall on August 24. Created by singer-songwriter-storyteller and professional speaker Michel Neray, momondays is where songwriters turn their original music into mini one-person shows — spilling tunes, backstories, and emotional tea right in your lap. And you get

Jeremy Facknitz: Seeking BC House Concerts I'm Jeremy Facknitz, and I'm a professional international touring singer-songwriter you've probably never heard of. I'm also a husband and a dad, so I don't want to "live on the road." My family and I just moved to Fort Langley, British Columbia, and I'm looking for new house concert hosts in the lower mainland, on the islands, etc. (in other words, within 4 or 5 hours of home). But I'm also looking to tour AB, SK, and all of Canada

Frank Evans: Fit For A Dog I'm excited to announce the release of my debut solo album, Fit For A Dog. The record is a collection of original instrumentals and old songs that I've gathered and carried with me over the years. It was a true honor to collaborate with some of bluegrass music's finest musicians on this project, including Mike Bub, Caleb Clauder, Shad Cobb, and many others. Their incredible playing helped bring these songs to life, and I'm thrilled to finally share

Close Kicks: Wanted You To Know “Wanted You To Know” is a reflective folk/Indie singer-songwriter track that captures the tension between mental overwhelm and personal growth. Starting from a place of frustration and emotional triggers, the song evolves into a message of resilience—where pain becomes a catalyst for clarity. Fans of Mt. Joy, The Strumbellas, and Phoebe Bridgers will connect with its raw honesty and introspective tone! Click here for more info

Jennifer Foster: Don’t Walk on the Dead People Toronto singer-songwriter Jennifer Foster is spotlighting “Don’t Walk on the Dead People,” a folk track from her recently released album, Powerline. Inspired by the New Brunswick farm where Foster grew up, the song takes a sideways look at the ephemeral nature of everyday life, beginning with an irreverent shortcut through the neighbouring church graveyard. Powerline, Foster’s fourth album, is a pop-folk collection with a warm ’7

Ema Jean: Primrose Tour Montreal-based songwriter and performer Ema Jean is embarking on a small tour across New Brunswick and Nova Scotia this summer! She'll be sharing songs from across her catalogue in intimate venues and listening rooms throughout the Maritimes. TOUR DATES Friday, June 26 - Maritime Texture - Deer Island, NB Saturday, June 27 - Harmony House - Saint John, NB Sunday, June 28 - La Blue Casa - Moncton, NB Saturday, July 11 - Lazy Bear Brewing - Smith's Cove

Matt Gower: Vacated Shapes Album Release Show CKCU Presents: Matt Gower - Vacated Shapes Album Release Show w/ Libby & Cal Saturday, June 20 - Doors 8:00, Show 9:00 Art House Café - Ottawa, ON $15 online, $20 at the door Vacated Shapes is Matt Gower’s second solo album. The songs on this LP reflect Matt’s Hard Folk aesthetic, with themes such as gender fluidity, anti-fascism, depression, his own shortcomings as a husband & father, murder, imperfection and apathy. Taking e

In this episode, we chat to acclaimed Canadian artist, AHI. We discuss the power of storytelling in folk music and how personal experiences shape the songs we connect with most deeply. We also touch on AHI’s journey as an artist, the role of vulnerability in songwriting, and how he’s learned to channel criticism into creativity and growth throughout his career. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Catch AHI Online: Website: https://ahimusic.com/ Tour

Angela Begin & Bobby Tarian: Spring Tour Angela Begin & Bobby Tarian are playing a string of dates in Ontario in June! Avant-Garde in Ottawa on June 3rd, where they will be joined by Rachella Wred & Liam S Russell. Camp Cataract in Niagara Falls on June 4th alongside Maya Ritchie. The Laughing Buddha in Sudbury on June 5th on their patio. w/ Liam S. Russell & Rachella Wred Wednesday, June 3 - 8 PM Avant-Garde Bar - Ottawa, ON Tickets w/ Maya Ritchie Thursday, June 4 - 7 PM

In this episode, we sit down with Grammy-nominated fiddler Natalie McMaster to talk about her journey from growing up in Cape Breton’s rich musical traditions to building an internationally celebrated career in folk music. We discuss the role of love, family, and community in shaping her life and artistry, the decision to bring her children into her performances, and the importance of passing traditional music on to future generations. We also dive into Natalie’s new bestsell

SCAM ALERT It has come to our attention that a scam agency is contacting people and purporting to sell exhibit/booth space for the 2026 Folk Canada Conference All Folk Canada contractors use a folkcanada.com email address. If anyone contacts you from a non folkcanada.com email purporting to be from our organization, please check with us first before sharing your information with them. Should you receive one of these offers, please forward to joel@folkcanada.com, then block an

Isabelle Foster: Cooler on the Coast Release: May 29, 2026 Isabelle Foster’s debut EP, Cooler on the Coast, introduces a new voice to the industry. Her songs explore the rollercoaster of emotions that come with growing up as a teenager today. Isabelle uses a folk-pop genre, with just a hint of country to make her songs come to life. Produced by JUNO Award-winning creator Corey LeRue, the release showcases her youthful energy and heartfelt lyrics with bridges, harmonies and t