Toronto's Sound Check: 5 Music Highlights Buzzing Around the City (Spring 2025)
Toronto's music scene is always buzzing, and as we head into the warmer months, there's a fresh wave of festival announcements, exciting shows, community events, and even some significant changes shaping the landscape. From legendary venues to vital queer spaces and emerging artist showcases, the city's soundtrack is constantly evolving. Here’s a look at five noteworthy happenings making noise right now.
(Disclaimer: This information is based on searches conducted in early May 2024. Event details, dates, and lineups can change. Please click the links provided and check official sources for the most up-to-date information, especially as time passes.)
1. NXNE Returns: Get Ready for Music Discovery
North by Northeast (NXNE) is gearing up for its annual takeover of Toronto venues this June. Known as a key festival for discovering new and emerging artists alongside established favourites, NXNE recently announced its initial lineup featuring over 150 bands spanning various genres. Highlights often include a mix of local talent and acts from across Canada and internationally – past announcements have featured queer alt-folk duos and eclectic singer-songwriters alongside indie rock and hip-hop artists. Keep an eye on their official site as they finalize the schedule across numerous city clubs.
Explore the festival: https://www.nxne.com/
2. Pride Month Heats Up with Music and Performance
June means Pride in Toronto, and the city comes alive with celebrations, including a strong focus on music and performance. Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, a cornerstone of queer arts, hosts its own vibrant Queer Pride Festival throughout the month, featuring everything from the Queer Songbook Orchestra's 10th Anniversary show and the 2-Spirit Cabaret to dance parties and open mics. Elsewhere, expect major events like pool parties (often featuring stars from RuPaul's Drag Race, according to past event descriptions) and main stage performances during the official Pride Toronto Festival Weekend.
Buddies in Bad Times Queer Pride: https://buddiesinbadtimes.com/shows/pride/2024/
Explore Pride Toronto events: https://www.destinationtoronto.com/events/annual-festivals-and-events/toronto-pride/
3. Legends and Rising Stars Grace Massey Hall
The iconic Massey Hall continues its legacy with a packed schedule of diverse performances. Upcoming months feature acclaimed artists spanning multiple genres. Indie favourites Japanese Breakfast, experimental composer Nils Frahm, jazz sensation Samara Joy, classic rockers Chilliwack, and even screen legend Jeff Goldblum with his Mildred Snitzer Orchestra are just some of the names set to perform. It’s always worth checking their calendar for both legendary acts and contemporary stars visiting this historic Toronto venue.
See the schedule & get tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/massey-hall-tickets-toronto/venue/131094
4. Grapefruit Party Keeps the Queer Dance Floor Moving
For a taste of Toronto's ongoing queer nightlife, the legendary Grapefruit party continues its long run. Typically held monthly at The Black Eagle in the Church-Wellesley Village, this event is known for its eclectic mix of pop, classic club tracks, and disco, attracting a diverse crowd ready to dance. Featuring local and guest DJs, it’s a staple for many in the community looking for a fun, high-energy night out. Check their schedule for upcoming dates.
Find the next party: https://www.gaytravel4u.com/event/grapefruit-party-toronto/
5. End of an Era: Dakota Tavern Closes its Doors
In more somber news, the Toronto live music scene recently bid farewell to the beloved Dakota Tavern. This intimate basement venue on Ossington Avenue was a crucial hub for roots, country, and indie rock for nearly two decades, fostering many local bands and hosting memorable performances. Known for its tight space and dedicated community, its closure marks a significant loss for artists and fans alike. Reports suggest the space may reopen as a sports bar, signalling the end of its chapter as a dedicated live music venue.
Read more about the closure: https://ca.billboard.com/fyi/dakota-tavern-closes
From the excitement of festivals and major concerts to the vital pulse of community-based queer events and the unfortunate realities of venue changes, Toronto's music scene is anything but static. There's always something happening – explore the links, check out a show, and support the diverse sounds of the city!
