Latest news with #Osheaga
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Calgary Stampede, Osheaga and more: A doctor's tips on heat safety, hydration and substance control for summer festivals in Canada
Between the Calgary Stampede, Ottawa Bluesfest and Osheaga in Montreal, festival season across Canada has officially kicked off. While many Canadians last year faced scorching hot temperatures that reached highs of 40 degrees Celsius, this year currently seems to be a bit cooler, with only a couple parts of the country under heat warnings. As of July 4, Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for southeastern Manitoba, parts of western Ontario and most of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area. In these areas, Canadians can expect to see daytime high temperatures in the low 30s, with some parts feeling up to 40 degrees with humidity. The rest of the country might not be under a heat warning, which should allow for a comfortable start to this year's Calgary Stampede, running from July 4 to 13. But since it's summer, Canadians should still anticipate more heat later this month and in August. As the season runs its course, it's probably a good idea to think about staying safe and hydrated if you plan to have fun under the sun. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. While dramatically high summer temperatures might be a cause for concern, does that mean you should be skipping these outdoor celebrations altogether? Not necessarily, but it's a good idea to be cautious about what your body can handle and what you should do to prevent heat-related health problems. "People are preoccupied with what's happening and they don't want to leave, or there are crowded conditions and it's difficult to move around, and the heat can be intense," Dr. Mike Howlett, president of the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians, told Yahoo Canada about summer festivals in 2024. "So, a couple of things are at issue." The Dalhousie University associate professor said for one, people need to be aware of their hydration and they should drink fluids as they spend time outside during these festivals. Additionally, festivalgoers should be concerned about heat exposure, especially as temperatures rise in Canada due to climate change. "While hydration is important, also the amount of heat exposure and the warming up of your body temperature past what it can manage is another issue," he noted. "They're related, but not identical." One way Howlett suggested people avoid any possible health problems during summer festivals is by taking frequent breaks, particularly from "hostile" environments: "If you're finding it extensively hot and and humid, then finding shade, finding cool areas as well as having enough fluids to drink and the ability to cool off a little bit is important." Moreover, Howlett recognized summer festivals are often events where people consume alcohol or drugs, but he warned people to stay safe while using such substances. For instance, intoxicants can sometimes make it easier for issues like heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration to happen. Older adults and younger children should also take higher precautions, since they likely don't have as much resilience to dehydration and heat than other people. Additionally, Howlett urged people who have underlying medical problems, such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, kidney problems or other health issues, should also be more careful about taking breaks and being hydrated. Finally, he recommended people wear loose-fitting light clothing, use hats and apply sunscreen if they're planning on spending time at an outdoors festival: "It's better to make a plan where you're going to take breaks out of the sun, where you're going to have lots of fluids, use hats and if you have medical problems, be more careful and avoid substances that are intoxicants that lower your ability to pay attention to what's happening." Glen Kenny, a University of Ottawa professor and director of the Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, previously told Yahoo Canada that heat is a "silent killer." Howlett reiterated that sentiment, noting heat-related health problems can easily "sneak up on people." Howlett added that heat stroke is basically an extreme version of heat exhaustion, where "your body has totally lost its ability to control its core temperature." In that case, your temperature will rise dramatically, leading to serious ailments like coma or seizures. Sun and heat-induced injury is a real thing, and it can sneak up on Mike Howlett "For every 10 minutes that you're not treated, it increases your death rate," he warned. "So, it's extremely important not to get to that state in the first place. Before that happens, you want to pay attention to things like if you're excessively tired and really worn out and fatigued more than usual for yourself, if you're starting to get dizzy and lightheaded." According to the Canadian Red Cross, heat-related health problems arise when someone is dehydrated — and they can happen to anyone who stays in the heat or under the sun for too long. There are key differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke that everyone should recognize. Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke Heat exhaustion Heat stroke Skin Moist, warm Dry, hot Physical Headache, weakness, exhaustion, nausea, vomiting, fainting Seizures, coma, severe headache Mental Anxiety, dizziness Altered behaviour, irritable, aggressive, bizarre Breathing Normal Rapid, shallow "If those things are happening, you should not go back out until it's settled over, which is not an hour or two," Howlett said. "It's like two or three days before you should go back out again." Moreover, the Canadian Red Cross indicated you should immediately call 9-1-1 if someone has heat exhaustion if they're nauseous, vomiting, fainting, dizzy and have anxiety. If they have heat stroke and present any of the listed symptoms, call emergency services. While alcohol is a fluid, you don't want to make the mistake that it's keeping you hydrated: "Anything with alcohol in it will tend to dehydrate you," Howlett shared. While consuming alcohol, the body releases an antidiuretic hormone called vasopressin, according to Cleveland Clinic. This hormone works with your kidneys to help balance your body's fluids. However, alcohol is also a diuretic, which means it increases your need to urinate and, in turn, lose fluid. The best way to counteract this is to stay on top of how much water you're drinking. While a common recommendation is to drink around eight glasses of water a day, the actual required amount of water someone should drink daily depends on the person. While drinking alcohol, Cleveland Clinic dietitian Julia Zumpano suggested drinking eight to 12 ounces of water for every alcoholic beverage you consume. That will help slow your alcohol intake and mitigate the effects of the next morning's hangover. When it comes to drugs, there are some that simply don't mix well with the sun. Howlett shared substances like ecstasy, cocaine or others within the amphetamines group can cause their own heat-related health problems. For one, he said it's possible they can cause a heat-related injury even without being in a hot environment. Moreover, they can make people become more active than they usually are, causing their body temperature to increase. Other substances that might alter your cognition could present other issues. For instance, some might make you more drowsy or less oriented than usual, possibly causing you to fall asleep or remain under the sun for longer than you normally would. While recreational drugs might be one concern, there are some medications that might also impact someone's sensitivity to heat. According to New Brunswick Public Health, there are several medications you should modify how you take if you're spending time outside in the heat: Common medications including some antihistamines (like Benadryl), over-the-counter sleeping pills and anti-diarrhea pills Psychiatric drugs like chlorpromazine, thioridazine, perphenazine, fluphenazine and more Anti-parkinson drugs like benztropine, biperiden, ethopropazine and more Anti-depressants like amitriptyline, doxepine, clomipramine and more There's no doubt summer festivals are exciting events that draw thousands of people in, but there are certain risks festivalgoers must be aware of before they head out in the sun for the day. During Osheaga 2023 at Montreal's Parc Jean-Drapeau, paramedics responded to a dozen cases, four of which required hospitalization, according to the Canadian Press. Just be aware to prevent a heat-induced or dehydration-induced injury. If people will take those precautions, then there's probably a lot less Mike Howlett Howlett noted even though someone might be young and healthy, they shouldn't automatically believe they're immune to heat-related health problems. Still, he said festivals with prolonged days or multi-day events likely aren't the best places to bring young children or seniors. Either way, he urged people to practice "common sense things" like not leaving your children in unshaded areas for long amounts of time and instead take precautions when heading outside. "Dehydration, heat exhaustion, progressing to more serious states, it's a real thing. It's something you have to pay attention to," Howlett shared. "There's a reason why these major festivals hire ambulance services and paramedics to help. ... It's a big potential risk."
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Calgary Stampede, Osheaga and more: A doctor's tips on heat safety, hydration and substance control for summer festivals in Canada
Between the Calgary Stampede, Ottawa Bluesfest and Osheaga in Montreal, festival season across Canada has officially kicked off. While many Canadians last year faced scorching hot temperatures that reached highs of 40 degrees Celsius, this year currently seems to be a bit cooler, with only a couple parts of the country under heat warnings. As of July 4, Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for southeastern Manitoba, parts of western Ontario and most of southern Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area. In these areas, Canadians can expect to see daytime high temperatures in the low 30s, with some parts feeling up to 40 degrees with humidity. The rest of the country might not be under a heat warning, which should allow for a comfortable start to this year's Calgary Stampede, running from July 4 to 13. But since it's summer, Canadians should still anticipate more heat later this month and in August. As the season runs its course, it's probably a good idea to think about staying safe and hydrated if you plan to have fun under the sun. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. While dramatically high summer temperatures might be a cause for concern, does that mean you should be skipping these outdoor celebrations altogether? Not necessarily, but it's a good idea to be cautious about what your body can handle and what you should do to prevent heat-related health problems. "People are preoccupied with what's happening and they don't want to leave, or there are crowded conditions and it's difficult to move around, and the heat can be intense," Dr. Mike Howlett, president of the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians, told Yahoo Canada about summer festivals in 2024. "So, a couple of things are at issue." The Dalhousie University associate professor said for one, people need to be aware of their hydration and they should drink fluids as they spend time outside during these festivals. Additionally, festivalgoers should be concerned about heat exposure, especially as temperatures rise in Canada due to climate change. "While hydration is important, also the amount of heat exposure and the warming up of your body temperature past what it can manage is another issue," he noted. "They're related, but not identical." One way Howlett suggested people avoid any possible health problems during summer festivals is by taking frequent breaks, particularly from "hostile" environments: "If you're finding it extensively hot and and humid, then finding shade, finding cool areas as well as having enough fluids to drink and the ability to cool off a little bit is important." Moreover, Howlett recognized summer festivals are often events where people consume alcohol or drugs, but he warned people to stay safe while using such substances. For instance, intoxicants can sometimes make it easier for issues like heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration to happen. Older adults and younger children should also take higher precautions, since they likely don't have as much resilience to dehydration and heat than other people. Additionally, Howlett urged people who have underlying medical problems, such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, kidney problems or other health issues, should also be more careful about taking breaks and being hydrated. Finally, he recommended people wear loose-fitting light clothing, use hats and apply sunscreen if they're planning on spending time at an outdoors festival: "It's better to make a plan where you're going to take breaks out of the sun, where you're going to have lots of fluids, use hats and if you have medical problems, be more careful and avoid substances that are intoxicants that lower your ability to pay attention to what's happening." Glen Kenny, a University of Ottawa professor and director of the Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, previously told Yahoo Canada that heat is a "silent killer." Howlett reiterated that sentiment, noting heat-related health problems can easily "sneak up on people." Howlett added that heat stroke is basically an extreme version of heat exhaustion, where "your body has totally lost its ability to control its core temperature." In that case, your temperature will rise dramatically, leading to serious ailments like coma or seizures. "For every 10 minutes that you're not treated, it increases your death rate," he warned. "So, it's extremely important not to get to that state in the first place. Before that happens, you want to pay attention to things like if you're excessively tired and really worn out and fatigued more than usual for yourself, if you're starting to get dizzy and lightheaded." According to the Canadian Red Cross, heat-related health problems arise when someone is dehydrated — and they can happen to anyone who stays in the heat or under the sun for too long. There are key differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke that everyone should recognize. Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke Heat exhaustion Heat stroke Skin Moist, warm Dry, hot Physical Headache, weakness, exhaustion, nausea, vomiting, fainting Seizures, coma, severe headache Mental Anxiety, dizziness Altered behaviour, irritable, aggressive, bizarre Breathing Normal Rapid, shallow "If those things are happening, you should not go back out until it's settled over, which is not an hour or two," Howlett said. "It's like two or three days before you should go back out again." Moreover, the Canadian Red Cross indicated you should immediately call 9-1-1 if someone has heat exhaustion if they're nauseous, vomiting, fainting, dizzy and have anxiety. If they have heat stroke and present any of the listed symptoms, call emergency services. While alcohol is a fluid, you don't want to make the mistake that it's keeping you hydrated: "Anything with alcohol in it will tend to dehydrate you," Howlett shared. While consuming alcohol, the body releases an antidiuretic hormone called vasopressin, according to Cleveland Clinic. This hormone works with your kidneys to help balance your body's fluids. However, alcohol is also a diuretic, which means it increases your need to urinate and, in turn, lose fluid. The best way to counteract this is to stay on top of how much water you're drinking. While a common recommendation is to drink around eight glasses of water a day, the actual required amount of water someone should drink daily depends on the person. While drinking alcohol, Cleveland Clinic dietitian Julia Zumpano suggested drinking eight to 12 ounces of water for every alcoholic beverage you consume. That will help slow your alcohol intake and mitigate the effects of the next morning's hangover. When it comes to drugs, there are some that simply don't mix well with the sun. Howlett shared substances like ecstasy, cocaine or others within the amphetamines group can cause their own heat-related health problems. For one, he said it's possible they can cause a heat-related injury even without being in a hot environment. Moreover, they can make people become more active than they usually are, causing their body temperature to increase. Other substances that might alter your cognition could present other issues. For instance, some might make you more drowsy or less oriented than usual, possibly causing you to fall asleep or remain under the sun for longer than you normally would. While recreational drugs might be one concern, there are some medications that might also impact someone's sensitivity to heat. According to New Brunswick Public Health, there are several medications you should modify how you take if you're spending time outside in the heat: Common medications including some antihistamines (like Benadryl), over-the-counter sleeping pills and anti-diarrhea pills Psychiatric drugs like chlorpromazine, thioridazine, perphenazine, fluphenazine and more Anti-parkinson drugs like benztropine, biperiden, ethopropazine and more Anti-depressants like amitriptyline, doxepine, clomipramine and more There's no doubt summer festivals are exciting events that draw thousands of people in, but there are certain risks festivalgoers must be aware of before they head out in the sun for the day. During Osheaga 2023 at Montreal's Parc Jean-Drapeau, paramedics responded to a dozen cases, four of which required hospitalization, according to the Canadian Press. Howlett noted even though someone might be young and healthy, they shouldn't automatically believe they're immune to heat-related health problems. Still, he said festivals with prolonged days or multi-day events likely aren't the best places to bring young children or seniors. Either way, he urged people to practice "common sense things" like not leaving your children in unshaded areas for long amounts of time and instead take precautions when heading outside. "Dehydration, heat exhaustion, progressing to more serious states, it's a real thing. It's something you have to pay attention to," Howlett shared. "There's a reason why these major festivals hire ambulance services and paramedics to help. ... It's a big potential risk."
Time Out
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Osheaga 2025: Set times, full lineup, tickets and everything you need to know
Glass Animals, Doechii, Gracie Abrams, Chainsmokers, Shaboozey and Jamie XX? The 2025 edition of Osheaga Music and Arts Festival is just around the corner, and this year's lineup is one of the most exciting yet. Blending music legends with rising stars, high-energy sets with more intimate moments, the festival continues to deliver the vibrant, cutting-edge experience fans have come to expect. For its 18th edition, Osheaga has created a genre-spanning program designed to appeal to music lovers of all tastes and generations. The festival kicks off at 2 p.m. on Friday, with a full day of performances leading up to the much-anticipated headlining show by The Killers on the Bell Rivière Stage. On Saturday, Tyler, the Creator brings his signature energy to the same stage, followed by a Sunday finale from global pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo. On the Coors Light Mountain Stage, don't miss major acts like Gracie Abrams, Glass Animals, and Cage the Elephant. The belairdirect Valley Stage will feature standout sets from Chet Faker, Lucy Dacus, and Barry Can't Swim. Over at the Scotia Forest Stage, expect a diverse mix including Doechii, Jamie xx, and Jorja Smith. The Coca-Cola Island Stage is set to light up with DJ sets from James Hype, Sammy Virji, and ISOxo, while Canadian artists will take the spotlight in the cozy, up-close setting of the SiriusXM Backyard Sessions. Where is Osheaga 2025? Osheaga takes place at Parc Jean-Drapeau on 296 Chemin du Tour de l'isle in Montreal, Quebec, close to downtown Montreal. The yellow line of the STM's metro system, that you can take from the Berri-UQAM station, will lead you to the Jean-Drapeau station, right next to the site of the festival. How to get tickets for Osheaga 2025? You can get your tickets using the official link here. When is Osheaga 2025? Osheaga is a three day festival from August 1 to 3, 2025. What's the full Osheaga 2025 lineup and set times? Find the complete line-up for Osheaga here: How much are tickets for Osheaga? General admission ticket / single-day: starting at $175 CAN General admission ticket / 3-days: starting at $420 CAN Casino de montréal gold ticket / single-day: starting at $355 CAN Casino de montréal gold ticket / 3 days: starting at $805 CAN Defender platinum ticket / single-day: starting at $740 CAN Defender platinum ticket / 3 days: starting at $1,705 CAN Time Out Tip: Taxes and service fees included, and prices are subject to change without notice.
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
6 Canadian artists performing at Osheaga 2025 that you need to pay attention to — bbno$, Aqyila, The Beaches and more
Canadian music lovers, get ready: Osheaga 2025 is set to be full of incredible acts you won't want to miss. Some of the biggest names in the industry are set to trot over to Montreal later this summer, filling up one of Canada's major cities with chart-topping tunes you'll probably want to jam along to. Rock fans can anticipate The Killers giving an energetic rendition of "Mr. Brightside" and Cage The Elephant crooning out to "Cigarette Daydreams," while rap lovers ought to be excited for powerful performances from Tyler, The Creator and Doechii. Pop stans might, on the other hand, be counting down the days to tear up with Gracie Abrams or belt along to that part in Olivia Rodrigo's mega-hit "drivers license." But don't be so quick to count out Canadian musicians; there's a wealth of talent that can't go unrecognized across this vast country. From the soulful tones Toronto R&B singer Aqyila lets fall into place, the eclectic bars Vancouver rapper bbno$ delivers with confidence or the unapologetic attitude served by rock band The Beaches, there's truly something for every music lover at this year's event. The Osheaga Music and Arts Festival runs from Aug. 1 to 3 this year at Parc Jean-Drapeau. Whether you're undecided about making plans to attend or you can't wait for Canada's biggest music festival, read on to learn more about some of the country's top-rising stars who are set to take the stage in Montreal later this year. If you happen to catch a performance by Aqyila, it's likely you'll get a show that's full of immaculate vibes. That's essentially what's been at the core of her music making, and with a recently-released debut album that sounds smooth as butter, it's a direction that seems to be paying off. "I'm a very much vibes type of artist," she explained to Yahoo Canada. "It's just like, 'OK, this feels good, this feels good, this flows nicely.'" The Toronto singer, whose real name is Taahira Aquiyla Duff, released her first album this past March. Titled Falling Into Place, it's full of silky, intimate songs that make you feel warm inside, with one love song on the project, a 2024 viral single called "Bloom," being the epitome of that feeling." But she doesn't want listeners to miss "Give Me More" when she takes the stage in Montreal this summer. The opening track to her 37-minute album is one she's excited for people to hear live: "Every time when the bass hits in that hook, I'm falling. I love that part." This will be her first time at Osheaga, and she said her and her band are excited to get on stage and showcase the new music. "Being able to finally showcase these new songs that I've added to my discography is super exciting. I'm very much looking forward to gaining some new fans out there, that'd be dope." Leading up to her Montreal show, lots has been happening in her career, from spending some time in the U.K. where she did a "nice, chill R&B set" that "felt very soulful," to starring as a special guest on singer Pink Sweats' tour earlier this year. That touring opportunity gave her the chance to get "warmed up" with performing across numerous cities in the U.S., along with pitstops in Toronto and Vancouver. NXNE Music Festival is also coming up in downtown Toronto, where she's set to perform at Sankofa Square on June 12: "That'll be the first time I'm getting to do the album full band live. It'll gear me up for Osheaga, for sure." While crafting good vibes has propelled her to some success in the industry already, it's not something she envisions will shape her art for the long haul. "I want to be a bit more precise," she shared, explaining she feels she's currently the "discovery part" of her artistry. But who knows? Perhaps once her festival stops have wrapped this summer, Aqyila could be coming to a city near you: "We'll just have to see what's in store." Between catchy beats, a playful personality and simply not taking himself too seriously, there's something infectious about bbno$ (pronounced "baby no money") that makes you reel for more. At some point, the rapper might've caught your ears, either by pure interest or a moment of unwillingly being able to escape his viral hit like "edamame" or "Lalala." Born and raised in Vancouver, the Canadian star — whose real name is Alexander Gumuchian — has seemingly never been afraid of how he's perceived by others. You can see that quality in nearly any of his more than two dozen music videos that have surpassed one million views on YouTube. Or, simply look to the 2025 Junos red carpet and see how he let everyone know he's "the sh—." The self-described "Gen Z Eminem" (as he puts it on bass-heavy house track "It Boy") once — now regrettably — called his sound "oxymoronical rap." And while fans attending Osheaga should get a glimpse of his typically amusing tunes, it's probably safe to bet his set will see numerous electronic-infused songs in the same vein of "mary poppins" and "boom," singles he both released in May. "I want my live show to be like a rave," he told Out this spring. There's an evolution that Debby Friday is excited to share with audiences, both in her music and in the way she navigates the world. The Montreal-bred artist is gearing up to release a new album during Osheaga weekend, and it's one that's a true representation of where she's at in life. "I feel like I am the most secure that I've ever felt as far as the decisions that I'm making for myself and for my career," she told Yahoo Canada, explaining how The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life, releasing Aug. 1, represents this new era of her journey. It's a moment in her career that she hopes people understand she's "not afraid to shine anymore." Friday's new album follows her Polaris Prize-winning debut album, Good Luck, which she said in 2023 featured the truest, most honest form of her songwriting. The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life is a continuation of that openness, and she's excited to connect with fans on an even deeper level — all with new experimentations with her sound and art. "There is this opening up that has happened inside of me. I think previously, I really used music as a way to channel and to say things that I may not have been able to say quite plainly," she shared, explaining she's a shy person and used to "obscure" herself in the past. "But with this record, I just feel so much more open. I also feel a lot more comfortable being vulnerable and showing that vulnerability publicly. ... I'm using my voice in different ways, I'm producing in different ways, I'm playing with different sounds. I keep calling it an opening." This June, she's joining experimental pop musician Spellling on a tour across Europe, where she's looking forward to getting familiar with her new music, understanding how to perform the songs and even see how her performing style has evolved. "I'm sure by the time Osheaga rolls around, we'll be seeing some of that." The sound on her new album is very reflective of London, as that was the city she spent a majority of the time crafting the project in. But she also drew from her own observations about the world around her, pulling inspirations of love for her triumphant opening track "1/17," as well as existential aspects on "All I Wanna Do Is Party." She called the two sister songs, with the latter being "about the end of the world" but a chance to let fans dance and still feel happiness despite what's going on in the world. "I'm just super excited to get on that stage and to play the new songs. I love performing and I always love a new experience." Begonia might be in a transitory stage at the moment, but that doesn't mean she's slowing down. Coming off the success of her Juno-nominated 2023 album Powder Blue, the Winnipeg singer is about to start ramping things up in hopes of taking over the music landscape. "I'm in this little cuspy zone of finishing off one album; Powder Blue touring, finishing off that touring; and then on the eve of starting some new touring. So, I'm right in this middle zone that's interesting. I'm contemplating all these questions." The singer, whose real name is Alexa Dirks, told Yahoo Canada she's preparing an entirely new project, but she's currently in the throes of creating visuals as well as crafting a final track list. "There will be a single out this summer," she revealed. "Hopefully we'll be performing a couple new things on the Osheaga stage — that's all I can say.' But the thought of blending that new material with her critically acclaimed work all into a condensed show sparks numerous questions, of course. "When I first started, I felt like I was grasping at straws to fill an hour. ... Now it's like the best problem ever to have too many songs that I love to play live. It's going to take a moment to craft." From fan-favourite tracks like "Heaven" and "Married by Elvis" on her most recent album, to unforgettable gems on her first album, Fear, along with all the music from her EPs, it'll be a difficult task trying to craft a cohesive show that resonates will all audiences. And while indulging in the fashion, makeup and theatrics of these live performances is a major part of the fun for Dirks, there's a care for the audience's reception to the show that plays an equally important role. "It's not going to be all new material that's not even out yet, ... I want to pepper it in," she shared, explaining how it's not necessarily enjoyable when an artist gets on stage and performs multiple songs no one is quite familiar with yet. When it comes to live shows, it's the audience that can really change an artist's perspective on their music, Dirks added. "You can rehearse new material with your band in your basement and you can think that it's going to feel a certain way, but it completely changes once you are on that stage in front of a variable audience — things just innately feel different," she explained, sharing she might think one part will be a hit with the crowd but it's actually an entirely different moment that resonates best. "It's just so informative. I feel like I'm excited for that, to just learn some new lessons with some of these new songs." The Beaches are the all-woman indie-rock band the music industry has been begging for, and they've been taking the world by storm every chance they can. Between winning the Group of the Year Juno Award for the second time and coming out of playing Coachella earlier this year, the quartet is certainly more than ready to light up Montreal and other Canadian cities on their tour in late 2025. Formed in Toronto in 2013 by Jordan Miller, Eliza Enman-McDaniel, Kylie Miller and Leandra Earl, these stars aren't newcomers to the music world. But according to Earl, "there's definitely some pressure" to being the only Canadian top-billed act at Osheaga this year: "I think we're gonna do what we always do: Perform the best we can and have the best time," she told Yahoo Canada. Still, the band's breakup song, "Blame Brett," might be one of the best songs released by an all-woman group in recent years (although "Gnarly" by pop girl group KATSEYE is going triple platinum, at least in my house). There's a nonchalant brashness to the viral 2023 hit — featured on their Juno-winning album Blame My Ex — that can infect pretty much anyone with the urge to jump up and down while headbanging. "The album is very much about my breakup, more over what happened after I experienced the breakup, the journey I went on, the ups and downs," Miller told Yahoo Canada a month after that album came out. "The heartbreak, the grief, the rediscovery of myself, falling in love with myself again, falling in love with my friends again, getting back into dating again." Leading up to Osheaga, the band is preparing for their third album — No Hard Feelings — to wash ashore at the end of August: "We will have a couple of new singles out by then, so we'll definitely be playing those," Earl shared. "Get ready, Montreal!" There's a raw, husky quality to Ruby Waters' voice that makes you feel wrapped up in a warm, comforting blanket. Born just outside of Shelburne, Ont., the songstress — who's currently based in British Columbia — draws from genres like folk, indie-rock and pop. Some might know the rising star from her first song, "Sweet Sublime," which went Reddit viral in 2018. But those who've followed her career over the past few years knows she's seen greater success. In 2022, she received her first Juno nomination for her EP, If It Comes Down to It, followed by a second nod earlier this year for her debut album, What's the Point. Beyond her music releases, it's been show after show for the singer-songwriter — and that's continuing later this year. On top of Osheaga in August, she'll perform at Hillside Festival in Guelph, Ont., Highlands Music Festival in Palmer Rapids, Ont., and the Winnipeg Folk Festival. What appears to be at the heart of Waters' artistry is her identity. Being Métis, she previously told Cult MTL her roots have inspired some of the songs she's written, and she enjoys using her music to tell stories from the perspectives of people who are less fortunate: "I'd love to be able to learn how to speak out for any community that feels like they don't have enough word in the world."
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
6 Canadian artists performing at Osheaga 2025 that you need to pay attention to — bbno$, Aqyila, The Beaches and more
Canadian music lovers, get ready: Osheaga 2025 is set to be full of incredible acts you won't want to miss. Some of the biggest names in the industry are set to trot over to Montreal later this summer, filling up one of Canada's major cities with chart-topping tunes you'll probably want to jam along to. Rock fans can anticipate The Killers giving an energetic rendition of "Mr. Brightside" and Cage The Elephant crooning out to "Cigarette Daydreams," while rap lovers ought to be excited for powerful performances from Tyler, The Creator and Doechii. Pop stans might, on the other hand, be counting down the days to tear up with Gracie Abrams or belt along to that part in Olivia Rodrigo's mega-hit "drivers license." But don't be so quick to count out Canadian musicians; there's a wealth of talent that can't go unrecognized across this vast country. From the soulful tones Toronto R&B singer Aqyila lets fall into place, the eclectic bars Vancouver rapper bbno$ delivers with confidence or the unapologetic attitude served by rock band The Beaches, there's truly something for every music lover at this year's event. The Osheaga Music and Arts Festival runs from Aug. 1 to 3 this year at Parc Jean-Drapeau. Whether you're undecided about making plans to attend or you can't wait for Canada's biggest music festival, read on to learn more about some of the country's top-rising stars who are set to take the stage in Montreal later this year. If you happen to catch a performance by Aqyila, it's likely you'll get a show that's full of immaculate vibes. That's essentially what's been at the core of her music making, and with a recently-released debut album that sounds smooth as butter, it's a direction that seems to be paying off. "I'm a very much vibes type of artist," she explained to Yahoo Canada. "It's just like, 'OK, this feels good, this feels good, this flows nicely.'" The Toronto singer, whose real name is Taahira Aquiyla Duff, released her first album this past March. Titled Falling Into Place, it's full of silky, intimate songs that make you feel warm inside, with one love song on the project, a 2024 viral single called "Bloom," being the epitome of that feeling." But she doesn't want listeners to miss "Give Me More" when she takes the stage in Montreal this summer. The opening track to her 37-minute album is one she's excited for people to hear live: "Every time when the bass hits in that hook, I'm falling. I love that part." This will be her first time at Osheaga, and she said her and her band are excited to get on stage and showcase the new music. "Being able to finally showcase these new songs that I've added to my discography is super exciting. I'm very much looking forward to gaining some new fans out there, that'd be dope." Leading up to her Montreal show, lots has been happening in her career, from spending some time in the U.K. where she did a "nice, chill R&B set" that "felt very soulful," to starring as a special guest on singer Pink Sweats' tour earlier this year. That touring opportunity gave her the chance to get "warmed up" with performing across numerous cities in the U.S., along with pitstops in Toronto and Vancouver. NXNE Music Festival is also coming up in downtown Toronto, where she's set to perform at Sankofa Square on June 12: "That'll be the first time I'm getting to do the album full band live. It'll gear me up for Osheaga, for sure." While crafting good vibes has propelled her to some success in the industry already, it's not something she envisions will shape her art for the long haul. "I want to be a bit more precise," she shared, explaining she feels she's currently the "discovery part" of her artistry. But who knows? Perhaps once her festival stops have wrapped this summer, Aqyila could be coming to a city near you: "We'll just have to see what's in store." Between catchy beats, a playful personality and simply not taking himself too seriously, there's something infectious about bbno$ (pronounced "baby no money") that makes you reel for more. At some point, the rapper might've caught your ears, either by pure interest or a moment of unwillingly being able to escape his viral hit like "edamame" or "Lalala." Born and raised in Vancouver, the Canadian star — whose real name is Alexander Gumuchian — has seemingly never been afraid of how he's perceived by others. You can see that quality in nearly any of his more than two dozen music videos that have surpassed one million views on YouTube. Or, simply look to the 2025 Junos red carpet and see how he let everyone know he's "the sh—." The self-described "Gen Z Eminem" (as he puts it on bass-heavy house track "It Boy") once — now regrettably — called his sound "oxymoronical rap." And while fans attending Osheaga should get a glimpse of his typically amusing tunes, it's probably safe to bet his set will see numerous electronic-infused songs in the same vein of "mary poppins" and "boom," singles he both released in May. "I want my live show to be like a rave," he told Out this spring. There's an evolution that Debby Friday is excited to share with audiences, both in her music and in the way she navigates the world. The Montreal-bred artist is gearing up to release a new album during Osheaga weekend, and it's one that's a true representation of where she's at in life. "I feel like I am the most secure that I've ever felt as far as the decisions that I'm making for myself and for my career," she told Yahoo Canada, explaining how The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life, releasing Aug. 1, represents this new era of her journey. It's a moment in her career that she hopes people understand she's "not afraid to shine anymore." Friday's new album follows her Polaris Prize-winning debut album, Good Luck, which she said in 2023 featured the truest, most honest form of her songwriting. The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life is a continuation of that openness, and she's excited to connect with fans on an even deeper level — all with new experimentations with her sound and art. "There is this opening up that has happened inside of me. I think previously, I really used music as a way to channel and to say things that I may not have been able to say quite plainly," she shared, explaining she's a shy person and used to "obscure" herself in the past. "But with this record, I just feel so much more open. I also feel a lot more comfortable being vulnerable and showing that vulnerability publicly. ... I'm using my voice in different ways, I'm producing in different ways, I'm playing with different sounds. I keep calling it an opening." This June, she's joining experimental pop musician Spellling on a tour across Europe, where she's looking forward to getting familiar with her new music, understanding how to perform the songs and even see how her performing style has evolved. "I'm sure by the time Osheaga rolls around, we'll be seeing some of that." The sound on her new album is very reflective of London, as that was the city she spent a majority of the time crafting the project in. But she also drew from her own observations about the world around her, pulling inspirations of love for her triumphant opening track "1/17," as well as existential aspects on "All I Wanna Do Is Party." She called the two sister songs, with the latter being "about the end of the world" but a chance to let fans dance and still feel happiness despite what's going on in the world. "I'm just super excited to get on that stage and to play the new songs. I love performing and I always love a new experience." Begonia might be in a transitory stage at the moment, but that doesn't mean she's slowing down. Coming off the success of her Juno-nominated 2023 album Powder Blue, the Winnipeg singer is about to start ramping things up in hopes of taking over the music landscape. "I'm in this little cuspy zone of finishing off one album; Powder Blue touring, finishing off that touring; and then on the eve of starting some new touring. So, I'm right in this middle zone that's interesting. I'm contemplating all these questions." The singer, whose real name is Alexa Dirks, told Yahoo Canada she's preparing an entirely new project, but she's currently in the throes of creating visuals as well as crafting a final track list. "There will be a single out this summer," she revealed. "Hopefully we'll be performing a couple new things on the Osheaga stage — that's all I can say.' But the thought of blending that new material with her critically acclaimed work all into a condensed show sparks numerous questions, of course. "When I first started, I felt like I was grasping at straws to fill an hour. ... Now it's like the best problem ever to have too many songs that I love to play live. It's going to take a moment to craft." From fan-favourite tracks like "Heaven" and "Married by Elvis" on her most recent album, to unforgettable gems on her first album, Fear, along with all the music from her EPs, it'll be a difficult task trying to craft a cohesive show that resonates will all audiences. And while indulging in the fashion, makeup and theatrics of these live performances is a major part of the fun for Dirks, there's a care for the audience's reception to the show that plays an equally important role. "It's not going to be all new material that's not even out yet, ... I want to pepper it in," she shared, explaining how it's not necessarily enjoyable when an artist gets on stage and performs multiple songs no one is quite familiar with yet. When it comes to live shows, it's the audience that can really change an artist's perspective on their music, Dirks added. "You can rehearse new material with your band in your basement and you can think that it's going to feel a certain way, but it completely changes once you are on that stage in front of a variable audience — things just innately feel different," she explained, sharing she might think one part will be a hit with the crowd but it's actually an entirely different moment that resonates best. "It's just so informative. I feel like I'm excited for that, to just learn some new lessons with some of these new songs." The Beaches are the all-woman indie-rock band the music industry has been begging for, and they've been taking the world by storm every chance they can. Between winning the Group of the Year Juno Award for the second time and coming out of playing Coachella earlier this year, the quartet is certainly more than ready to light up Montreal and other Canadian cities on their tour in late 2025. Formed in Toronto in 2013 by Jordan Miller, Eliza Enman-McDaniel, Kylie Miller and Leandra Earl, these stars aren't newcomers to the music world. But according to Earl, "there's definitely some pressure" to being the only Canadian top-billed act at Osheaga this year: "I think we're gonna do what we always do: Perform the best we can and have the best time," she told Yahoo Canada. Still, the band's breakup song, "Blame Brett," might be one of the best songs released by an all-woman group in recent years (although "Gnarly" by pop girl group KATSEYE is going triple platinum, at least in my house). There's a nonchalant brashness to the viral 2023 hit — featured on their Juno-winning album Blame My Ex — that can infect pretty much anyone with the urge to jump up and down while headbanging. "The album is very much about my breakup, more over what happened after I experienced the breakup, the journey I went on, the ups and downs," Miller told Yahoo Canada a month after that album came out. "The heartbreak, the grief, the rediscovery of myself, falling in love with myself again, falling in love with my friends again, getting back into dating again." Leading up to Osheaga, the band is preparing for their third album — No Hard Feelings — to wash ashore at the end of August: "We will have a couple of new singles out by then, so we'll definitely be playing those," Earl shared. "Get ready, Montreal!" There's a raw, husky quality to Ruby Waters' voice that makes you feel wrapped up in a warm, comforting blanket. Born just outside of Shelburne, Ont., the songstress — who's currently based in British Columbia — draws from genres like folk, indie-rock and pop. Some might know the rising star from her first song, "Sweet Sublime," which went Reddit viral in 2018. But those who've followed her career over the past few years knows she's seen greater success. In 2022, she received her first Juno nomination for her EP, If It Comes Down to It, followed by a second nod earlier this year for her debut album, What's the Point. Beyond her music releases, it's been show after show for the singer-songwriter — and that's continuing later this year. On top of Osheaga in August, she'll perform at Hillside Festival in Guelph, Ont., Highlands Music Festival in Palmer Rapids, Ont., and the Winnipeg Folk Festival. What appears to be at the heart of Waters' artistry is her identity. Being Métis, she previously told Cult MTL her roots have inspired some of the songs she's written, and she enjoys using her music to tell stories from the perspectives of people who are less fortunate: "I'd love to be able to learn how to speak out for any community that feels like they don't have enough word in the world."
