(August 18, 2017) Toronto is home-base for many indie and internationally known soulful talents. Tamia, Deborah Cox, Melanie Fiona, Daniel Caesar, Tanika Charles, Slakah The Beatchild, DVSN, Zaki Ibrahim, Shi Wisdom and more. However, finding a solid platform for soul artists to share in their musical adroitness is next to null in this dominating metropolis of a city.
Yes, Toronto is fortuitous when it comes to various soul acts passing through while on tour, and a few guest spots sprinkled throughout festival season as well. However, where is the initial support for the genre of music that we hold so dear to our hearts? Finding clear validation and support through programs, award shows, massive festivals and the like for genres such as pop, dance and rock is way beyond accessible. There’s no contest. Thankfully, this is where Toronto-based online radio outlet iLive Radio comes in. They have taken the task at hand to heart. Headed by a group of soul-loving dj’s and music curators, iLive has created a niche for indie soul lovers through their radio station and annual concerts. Now, they are stepping out to direct their first soul festival lineup called iLive Soulfest which will be taking place during the long Labour Day holiday weekend.
On Friday September 1st and Saturday September 2nd at Revival, the stellar musical line-up includes:
Friday: The deep house sounds of HMLT, accompanied by the magnetic Sulpacio Jones and ending the night with UK and international favorite Loose Ends featuring Carl McIntosh.
Saturday: Toronto’s own Shi Wisdom, The Foreign Exchange’s Zo! Featuring Carmen Rodgers and the incomparable Godfather of UK Neo-Soul, Omar Lye-fook.
Along with the performances, iLive Soulfest will have spin-off events taking place throughout the festival including the Open Artist Events Program - a stop to bridge the gap and connect Canadian soul artists with their peers from around the world to facilitate in an exchange of ideas.
The inspiration for this grand outing derived from DJ Jazzy Jeff’s incredible Playlist outing, Chasing Goosebumps. A laudable project that is still on the lips of many since its release in February. Step by step, iLive is looking to fortify a solid foundation and relationship between Toronto’s soul community and their events. The iLive Soulfest is simply the beginning of what’s to come and what they have to offer. So, where do you plan to be Labour Day weekend?
Purchase your tickets and find out more information about iLive Soulfest at their website. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook as well for festival updates.
By Ann Marie Collymore