BY SIMONE J. SMITH
Picture this: streets buzzing with excitement, music filling the air from every corner, and smiles everywhere you look. Summer in Toronto means one thing – festivals galore! From the vibrant colors of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival to the mouthwatering delights of Taste of the Danforth, there’s a festival for everyone to enjoy.
Let’s not forget the concerts! Whether you’re into Indie jams, rock classics, or hip-hop beats, Toronto’s music scene is set to rock your world. The city’s iconic venues will be hosting some of the hottest acts around, making every night an unforgettable experience.
Oh, and did I mention the celebrations? From Canada Day festivities to multicultural events that showcase the city’s diversity, Toronto knows how to throw a party! Wait! There’s more! Patios are calling your name – picture yourself sipping on refreshing drinks while soaking up the sun and enjoying delicious bites with friends. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy café or a trendy rooftop spot, Toronto’s patio scene is second to none.
To start our summer off the right way, Toronto-based entertainment company The Feldman Agency (TFA) is excited to announce the first slate of shows for the inaugural Summer Concert Series at The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium, in Toronto. The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium offers all the amenities expected of large-scale entertainment venues. From delectable food and beverages to private lounge suites, patrons are assured a luxurious experience. The inception of The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium stems from a partnership between The Feldman Agency and Tennis Canada in 2023.
The 9000-capacity open-air venue, situated on the grounds of York University with an ample 7,700 parking spots, is conveniently located close to highways and the York University and Pioneer Village subway stops. Live music programming will continue all summer long in the historically underserved area of the city.
Torontonians will be treated to headliners like: The Barenaked Ladies and special guests Sam Roberts Band and KT Tunstall. Big Shiny Saturday brings The Tea Party, Headstones, I Mother Earth, Treble Charger and Bif Naked. Following the summer season opener, two days later, on June 29th, 2024, The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium will host Grammy Award-winning reggae/dancehall icon and “It Wasn’t Me” hitmaker Shaggy with R&B act 112 opening.
“Hybrids is the way you move culture,”
-Sting-
I couldn’t believe my luck when I got the chance to sit down and chat with Shaggy, the musical legend whose infectious rhythms have made Toronto his second home. As we settled into our conversation, his charismatic presence was felt right through the phone, and his stories about the city resonated with a deep sense of admiration. From his early days performing to sold-out crowds to his current projects blending reggae and Toronto’s diverse music scene, every word he spoke carried a wealth of experience and passion
“If it is something you are passionate about, it doesn’t feel like work,” Shaggy shared with me. “What I do feeds me. I look forward to going into the studio. I look forward to where my show is, it is life, the air I breathe.”
“What does this year look like for you when it comes to making music, and touring,” I questioned.
“This year is not a full-on tour year. I have been doing some one offs. I am being a dad, I am producing, I am writing stuff for myself. Music cannot be stagnant. What I am doing now is figure out how to mentor, and guide these new artists, teach them what I have done, and how I do it. You have to be that person who doesn’t want to be like anyone else. No is going to be bored of me, more than me. I am going to be tired of me first. I don’t like routines.”
“What excites you about performing in Toronto?”
“The diversity of Toronto is amazing. There are a lot of cultures, people from all walks of life. The best restaurants are in Toronto. I have a love affair with Canada, a beautiful one.”
It was not just an interview but a journey through the musical soul of a city that Shaggy has embraced as his own, leaving me inspired and awestruck by the way Toronto has embraced Shaggy, and how Shaggy has embraced Toronto.
It is going to be a GREAT SUMMER! I hope you are ready Toronto!
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