10 Must-See Canadian Tours this Summer

Summer is just around the corner and for music lovers that can only mean one thing: summer concerts are not far behind. Across the country, this season has no shortage of incredible performers taking the stage across all genres. In the world of Canadian music, there is always something for everyone.

So many artists. So little time. That’s why I’ve rounded up my picks for the must-see shows of the summer; a few Canadian staples with a few up and coming artists that you won’t want to miss out on. These are the artists worth checking out:

Arkells

Your favourite Hamilton boys are back on the road this summer. The Juno award-winning band – and one of the biggest names in Canadian rock- is bringing the hits and their newest releases on stage. The tour will feature stops in Timmins, Hamilton, Saint John, and others across the country. If you’ve ever seen them live you know you’re in for a high-energy show.

Dates HERE.

Shawn Mendes

Singer/songwriter darling- turned global superstar Shawn Mendes is taking his signature soulful pop on the road, on the heels of his self-titled album release. The world tour includes stops in Europe, Asia, and of course Canada. The 19-year-old is an impressive performer for someone so fresh out of the gate. His musicianship will be on full display this summer; try not to miss it.

Dates HERE.

Mother Mother

Indie-pop powerhouse Mother Mother is going out on tour to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their album O My Heart and if you’ve ever seen them before, you know their live shows never disappoint; full of enthusiasm and great music. With plenty of dates to come, there’s no excuse to miss these guys.

Dates HERE.

Shania Twain

The country-pop crossover legend is hitting the road again with her Shania Now Tour – featuring a handful of Canadian dates including Edmonton, Montreal, and Hamilton. Shania promises a mix of both new songs and old classics. Watching her live is truly a treat- she engages with her audience and has a ton of fun throughout the entire show. She is a performer not to be missed.

Dates HERE.

Dallas Smith

Country darling Dallas Smith has already had an impressive career; accumulating CCMA nominations and a Juno nom, number one singles, and a spot on Keith Urban’s ripcord tour. If you want to know why he’s one of Canada’s most talked about country artists, his tour is taking him all over the country this summer.

Dates HERE.

Lindsay Ell

Alberta native Lindsay Ell is a badass on stage; combining bluesy guitar with infectious lyrics and great stage presence. No stranger to touring, her resume includes spots on the road with Luke Bryan, and The Band Perry. In 2017 she played guitar for Brad Paisley and landed a critically acclaimed EP in the same year. She is well on her way to making her mark in music. Catch her this summer, making a few Canadian stops leading well into the fall.

Dates HERE.

The Sheepdogs

Canadian rockers The Sheepdogs have had steady success since their 2008 debut album Big Stand. Their music has received critical acclaim, with fans packing venues time after time to see this band perform. With multiple Juno nominations and wins, including a 2016 win for Rock Album of the Year, they’re taking their showmanship back on the road with a few Canadian stops along the way after a string of performances in the UK.

Dates HERE.

The Washboard Union

This country trio has been gaining momentum on the country charts and radio since they debuted their 2012 self-titled debut album. Combining folksy guitar licks, sweet melodies and storylines, this band is a force to be reckoned with on the country music scene. Don’t miss your chance to see this up-and-coming band live.

Dates HERE.

Serena Ryder

Singer-songwriter Serena Ryder brings her folk-pop-rock across Canada this year; with a medley of songs from the multiple critical and commercial successes she’s released over the course of her career. She’s engaging and present when she’s performing live, and her drum-heavy singles fill the performance space perfectly. Her shows come highly recommended- see for yourself when she comes to a city near you.

Dates HERE.

Tory Lanez

The Brampton rapper- born Daystar Peterson- has been growing steadily since his 2014 mixtape, Lost Cause. He’s racked up streaming plays since then and is even in the works on a new song with Bryson Tiller. His Memories Don’t Die Tour – his latest release – begins May 11 in Miami and continues throughout North America, bringing it back to Canada for multiple shows.

Dates HERE.