Ready to discover the next big thing in Canadian music? Look no further than these 11 emerging Canadian artists

I don’t know about you, but Trump’s whole enacting a 25% tariff on Canadian goods thing, plus his evil plans to annex Canada, has emboldened a long-dormant Canadian pride within me. I haven’t felt such intense patriotism since the 2010 Winter Olympics when the whole nation was rocking those red HBC mittens (damn I wish I kept mine) and belting “I Believe” by Nikki Yanofsky.

Now more than ever, I want to focus my attention and money on Canadian-made goods, whether that be the things I eat, what I wear, what I watch, and of course, what I listen to.

So in honour of my own personal CanCon requirements I’m enacting in my life, I put together a list of Canadian musicians and bands that are taking our country by storm. The artists on this list rack up monthly streams that range from thousands to hundreds of thousands, so the definition of rising is kind of flimsy (you could definitely say that some of these artists have already…rose? Risen?)— nevertheless I want to show my love.

Here are 11 Canadian artists you should be listening to:

Jonah Yano

Born in Hiroshima, Japan, raised in Vancouver and currently based in Montreal, Jonah Yano is a veritable Canadian-grown talent. Singer, songwriter, producer, and collaborator for acts like Clairo, Charlotte Day Wilson, Mustafa, and BADBADNOTGOOD, his own music is a warm and sweet blend of jazz, R&B, and ambient rock.

Biggest Hit: “Key to Love (Is Understanding) feat. Jonah Yano” - BADBADNOTGOOD

Pony Girl

Ottawa-based art-pop band Pony Girl has been captivating audiences with their lush, experimental sound since their formation in 2012. With their catchy indie rock/electronic sound, this group has earned critical recognition for their ability to craft immersive and emotive music. I had the honour of seeing them live at The Garrison in Toronto for their NXNE performance, and was absolutely blown away by their ethereal sound and stage presence (Yolande Laroche’s clarinet solo stole the show).

Biggest Hit: “Age of Anxious”- Pony Girl

Blair Lee

Blair Lee is a rising singer-songwriter known for her dreamy, introspective sound that blends her diaphanous vocals with delicate, almost haunting, atmospheric production. Based in Toronto, her music explores themes of vulnerability and self-discovery. Sierra had the pleasure of chatting with Blair last year at Cafe23 in the west-end, and they bonded over heartbreaks and their chaotic Notes Apps.

Biggest Hit: “Gladstone”- Blair Lee

Clothesline From Hell

Photo via Adam’s Instagram (@adamfromhell)

Clothesline From Hell is a boundary-pushing singer-songwriter known for his raw, unapologetic lyrics and genre-blurring sound. Drawing from grunge, folk, and experimental influences, his music delivers thrumming energy as he tells deeply personal stories. Sierra also had a chance to chat with Adam last year in Trinity Bellwoods, check that out here.

Biggest Hit: “Open Up!”- Clothesline From Hell

LOONY

LOONY is a Toronto-based R&B artist whose soulful voice and heartfelt songwriting have made her one of Canada’s most compelling acts. Her music blends classic soul, jazz, and modern R&B, creating art that is intimate, rich, and deeply soothing. In my opinion, LOONY is well past the point of “rising”, but I wanted to show love regardless because she is a wonderful talent whose art heals those it touches.

Biggest Hit: “raw”- LOONY

AVERY

AVERY, a multi-genre vocalist born and raised in Hamilton and based in Toronto, is known for her powerhouse vocals and emotionally charged songwriting. Her sound is inspired by genre-defining artists such as Aretha Franklin and Bob Marley and her music is so authentic and powerful that it single-handedly threw me back into an R&B phase.

Biggest Hit: “I KNOW”- AVERY

Nemahsis

Nemahsis is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter whose emotional vocals, poignant storytelling, and powerful message of awareness and hope for Palestine have garnered her international acclaim. I was first introduced to her music on TikTok where I saw her viral videos raising awareness and resources for Palestinian victims of the Israel-Hamas war. Her music weaves personal narratives with themes of identity, resilience, and self-discovery, drawing on her experiences as a Muslim, Palestinian-Canadian woman.

Biggest Hit: “i wanna be your right hand”- Nemahsis

Thelonious

Thelonious is a Toronto-based rapper known for his sharp lyricism and commanding style. With music that blends introspective narratives and infectious beats, he creates art that feels both thought-provoking and fresh. I was first introduced to him in 2023 at his graduation from The Remix Project, a training program based in Toronto that “helps level the playing field for talented youth who face barriers pursuing careers in arts and entertainment” , and I’ve been a fan ever since.

Biggest Hit: “FOREVER.”- Thelonious

DEAR-GOD

DEAR-GOD is a genre-defying artist from Brampton, Ontario. His music blends punk, hip-hop, and experimental rock into a raw and electrifying sound. He’s infamous for his gritty production and unfiltered lyrics and his music confronts themes of identity, angst, and rebellion.

Biggest Hit: “The Burbs”- DEAR-GOD

Fidelina

Fidelina is a rising Canadian songstress whose soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have captivated and hypnotized me. Drawing on influences from R&B and pop, with a sound akin to Kehlani, Kali Uchis, and Jhené Aiko, her music is perfect for getting ready for a night out or cozying up at home with a glass of wine.

Biggest Hit: “I Don’t Wanna”- Fidelina

Lost Faculty

Lost Faculty is a Hamilton-based band bringing a fresh edge to Canada’s indie rock scene with their high-energy performances and high-octane sound. With driving rhythms, introspective lyrics, and a touch of grunge, their music resonates with raw emotion and electricity. We first got to know the guys after their raucous NXNE performance, and we discovered that they’re as sweet and funny as they are musically talented— and very good sports. With a growing fan base and amazing live shows, Lost Faculty is quickly becoming a standout Canadian act to watch.

Biggest Hit: “Muddy My Mind”- Lost Faculty

11 Emerging Canadian Musicians to Discover Now