Highlight: Performances by hip-hop legends Dream Warriors and Mathematik, DJ sets, special guest speakers, and the Canadian Cyphers exhibit at the City of Toronto Archives.

This Black History Month the Canada Black Music Archives celebrates Toronto’s hip-hop icons and the impact the city has had on the genre. Often overlooked due to the popularity of our neighbours to the south, Toronto hip-hop is long overdue for its flowers.

Starting February 1^st and running to the end of the month, Canadian Cyphers: Elements of Toronto Hip-Hop will be open to the public at the City of Toronto Archives located at 255 Spadina Rd. This exhibition offers a glimpse at the many greats who have built the Toronto hip-hop scene and the elements that set the genre apart. Explore album covers, photographs, turntables and more. The exhibit will also feature items from Toronto’s iconic 100 Miles brand and an audiovisual display featuring a mix of live performances and interviews from hip-hop’s early days.

As part of the Black History Month programming and in partnership with the City of Toronto Music Office, the CBMA Presents the Black History Month Showcase. This event will take place once more at the City of Toronto Archives on Friday February 21^st. Hosting the evening is Andy McCurbin aka ‘Brother A’. The MC was a popular presence in the early days of Toronto hip-hop. Special guest speakers include former President of the Ontario Black History Society, Dr. Rosemary Sadlier, and Dr. Mark Campbell of Northside Hip-Hop.

Legendary duo, Dream Warriors, will make a special appearance; their global hit “My Definition of a Boombastic Jazz Style” helped put the city on the map. Check out the music video for the 90s classic here.

Another Toronto rap pioneer, Mathematik, will be performing. He is known for his conscious lyrism and fresh perspectives. Masters of the mix spinning between sets include DJ Carl Allen, DJ DTS, and Joey from Sound Quest. Special guest speakers and a surprise guest star are still to be announced, so stay tuned!

Those in attendance are welcome to explore the Canadian Cyphers: Elements of Toronto Hip-Hop exhibit and music video screenings in between acts. This free event will run from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, with donations encouraged. Exclusive merchandise, drinks and food will also be available for purchase. Book your tickets now on Eventbrite.

Join the CBMA this February to celebrate Toronto’s impact on the hip-hop genre!

Thank you to their partners at the City of Toronto Music Office, the City of Toronto Archives, Retrontario, and Northside Hip Hop for making this programming possible. 

For more information, please e-mail info@cbma.com or check out their https://thecbma.com/