Wavelength Music Festival + Conference Presents Melissa Auf der Maur

Thu Feb 26 2026
Wavelength Music Festival

Encore memoirs launch for Even the Good Girls Will Cry: A ’90s Rock Memoir
Part of Wavelength Music Festival + Conference 2026
Presented with Sonic Boom
In partnership with TO Live
Sunday March 22, 2026
The Garrison, 1197 Dundas St W, Toronto / 3pm
$19.99 plus taxes and fees via DICE

bit.ly/EncoreMAdM

Encore, encore! Canadian alternative legend Melissa Auf der Maur’s book launch at the AGO sold out so quickly that we had to add a second date: join us for “Nineties Tea Time” with Melissa Auf der Maur. For this music-centric talk at delightfully grungy local music venue The Garrison, Melissa will chat in conversation with Emilie Hanskamp, Toronto music journalist and creator of the influential music discovery channel @emilietheaux.

Birdsong New Music Foundation Partners with Toronto’s Kensington Sound to Produce 5 new Birdsong Artists along with 5 Bi-Monthly Concert Series

Thu Feb 26 2026
Kensington Sound

The Birdsong Kensington Sound Salon Showcase will begin May 11th 2026

Birdsong Founder Margaret Konopacki and Kensington Sound Owner Vezi Tayyeb
Birdsong Founder Margaret Konopacki and Kensington Sound Owner Vezi Tayyeb

Canadian charity Birdsong New Music Foundation has partnered with Kensington Sound to continue producing new Birdsong artists in Kensington Market. The collaboration brings together Birdsong’s mission-driven support for musical artists living with mental illness with Kensington Sound’s state-of-the-art production facilities.

THE MANDEVILLES END FOUR-YEAR SILENCE WITH ELECTRIFYING CO-PRODUCED NEW SINGLE “EVERY BIT OF VIOLENCE”

Thu Feb 26, 2026

After a four-year hiatus from the airwaves, the visceral rock and roll force The Mandevilles has officially returned with their brand-new single, “Every Bit Of Violence”. Out now via Snareguy Records, the track marks a high-stakes evolution for the Welland-based outfit, blending the raw energy of rock and roll with a modern, alternative edge. Built on a foundation of grit and cinematic intensity, the single arrives as a powerful reminder of why founding partners Serena Pryne and Nick Lesyk have remained a cornerstone of the Canadian rock scene for over a decade.

The genesis of “Every Bit Of Violence” is as legendary as the sound itself; the song was quite literally written live on stage during a low-key afternoon gig. When an impromptu riff from Lesyk sparked an immediate vocal melody from Pryne, the band mapped out the structure of the track in real-time, capturing the lightning-in-a-bottle moment via phone recordings. This spirit of total spontaneity carried into the studio, where the band—rounded out by guitarist/synthesist Taylor Laslo—collaborated with mixer and co-producer Russ Donohue to refine a sound that Pryne describes as "magical" and "harmonious".

Picture This! With Tracey Savein

Fri Feb 20 2026
Picture This! Tracey Savein

Tracey Savein brings an incredible eye (of the lens) capturing special moments in time. Because as the saying goes – A picture is worth a thousand words. “Any kind of photography, as I see it, is all about capturing motion and emotion. Whether the subject is raucous and rockin’ or the location is silent and still, if you can transport the viewer into a moment in time with an image and relay the energy of that moment, well, there’s your photograph.” – Tracey Savein

Kim Mitchell - February 15th @ The Regent Theatre, Oshawa

Kim Mitchell - February 15th @ The Regent Theatre, Oshawa

 Canadian rock icon, Kim Mitchell is indeed a wild party having a blast playing all the big hits for a stuffed house of diehard Max and Rockland fans alike at The Regent Theatre in Oshawa

THE CELTIC TENORS REIMAGINE ED SHEERAN'S "PERFECT SYMPHONY" WITH BILINGUAL ELEGANCE AND IRISH SOUL AHEAD OF CANADIAN TOUR

Fri Feb 20 2026
The Celtic Tenors

Acclaimed Irish Trio Blends English and Italian Lyrics in Stunning Live Recording From Upcoming ‘The Celtic Tenors: Live at the Empire Theatre’ Out March 20, 2026

The Celtic Tenors - Ireland's internationally celebrated vocal trio – have released their stirring rendition of "Perfect Symphony," out now through Slammin’ Media and Believe Distribution. Captured live at The Empire Theatre in Belleville, Ontario, the performance transforms Ed Sheeran's modern classic into an intimate crossover experience that showcases the group's signature ability to bridge contemporary songcraft with timeless Irish folk sensibility. The single arrives as the second preview of their forthcoming album ‘The Celtic Tenors: Live at The Empire Theatre,’ marking an exciting new chapter for founding member Matthew Gilsenan, alongside Daryl Simpson BEM and dynamic new tenor George Hutton.

Much Loved in Canada, Sweden’s Bara Jonson and Free (BjF) Had an ‘Appetite’ to Release a Newly Produced with “Appetite ANNO X”

Fri Feb 20, 2026

In 2016, Bara Jonson and Free submitted the song Appetite to Melodifestivalen in Kristianstad, Sweden.  It didn’t make the cut. The song was released later that year anyway and went on to live a life of its own.

Now, almost exactly ten years later, it’s time again. “Appetite ANNO X” is released the same weekend Melodifestivalen returns to Kristianstad. Sometimes life and timing are magical, and this is no exception with the latest release from BjF.

Four Winds Music Fest Returns For Fourth Year With Blackie + The Rodeo Kings, The Bros. Landreth, Tim Baker, And Debut Of New Heritage And Cultural Stage

Fri Feb 13 2026
 Four Winds Music Fest Returns For Fourth Year With Blackie + The Rodeo Kings, The Bros. Landreth, Tim Baker, And Debut Of New Heritage And Cultural Stage

Largely Canadian Lineup to Gather at Riverstone Campus Along the Saugeen River July 10-12, 2026 | Durham, Ontario

Complete Lineup: Blackie & The Rodeo Kings • Tim Baker • The Bros. Landreth • Reuben & The Bullhorn Singers • Tom Wilson • Begonia • Georgia Harmer • Amanda Rheaume • ONTARIANS • Union Duke • Mountain Head • Benjamin Dakota Rogers • Sammy Tweedy • Youngtree & Carole Bee • Graven • Less Toches • Jolie Anastasia • JD Crosstown • Shjaane Glover • Golden Scoundrels • Brank Oh!

Crystal Shawanda Lands 2026 JUNO Award Nomination With 'Sing Pretty Blues' In Blues Album of the Year

Thu Feb 12 2026
Crystal Shawanda

JUNO Award-winning powerhouse Crystal Shawanda returns with Sing Pretty Blues, the album that just earned her a 2026 JUNO Award nomination for Blues Album of the Year. The record takes listeners on a soulful journey through blues and southern country soul, paying homage to the classic sounds of Stax, Chess, and Motown. United by themes of resilience, self-worth, and independence, the songs reflect Shawanda’s refusal to settle in love, life, or business, delivering a powerful statement of strength and self-discovery.

We caught up with Crystal at her home in Nashville, Tennessse and asked how she felt about the current 2026 Juno Nomination for Blues Album of the Year.

“I was actually surprised! I really wasn’t expecting to be nominated at all so to be in the category of Blues Album of the Year is an incredible honour. I crossed over from Country to Blues in 2013-2014, so I truly feel blessed to be accepted by the Blues Community. No matter whether I win or not, I still appreciate being able to say Juno-nominated. I am proud to be there with all my respected peers.”

Canadian/International Singer/Recording Artist JC Sol Delivers New Soulful, Sensuous Sound with Pillow Talk

Thu Feb 12, 2026

Canadian/International Singer/Recording Artist JC Sol brings her signature smooth, sultry style — with a fresh twist. Join her on a fun, flirtatious musical romp as she unveils an upbeat new take on ‘Pillow Talk,’ arriving just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Originally recorded by Sylvia Robinson in 1973, the song draws the listener into a playful, lighthearted dance with temptation—an invitation delivered with a wink and very little left to the imagination.
JC says: “I love reintroducing vintage cover songs that once resonated so strongly. They give audiences—both young and old, a chance to experience these classics in fresh ways. For some, it’s a wave of nostalgia…for others, it’s the thrill of hearing a timeless song for the very first time.”

Watch on YouTube here:

Picture This! With Tracey Savein

Thu Feb 05 2026
Picture This! With Tracey Savein

Tracey Savein brings an incredible eye (of the lens) capturing special moments in time. Because as the saying goes – A picture is worth a thousand words. “Any kind of photography, as I see it, is all about capturing motion and emotion. Whether the subject is raucous and rockin’ or the location is silent and still, if you can transport the viewer into a moment in time with an image and relay the energy of that moment, well, there’s your photograph.” Tracey Savein

Ammoye/Tribute to Jimmy Cliff - February 1st @ The Flex Theatre, Harbourfront Centre, Toronto

Ammoye/Tribute to Jimmy Cliff - February 1st @ The Flex Theatre, Harbourfront Centre, Toronto

Jamaican-Canadian sensation, Ammoye pays homage to Jimmy Cliff during an all-star tribute at Kuumba 2026 down at The Fleck Theatre, Harbourfront Centre in Toronto

 

Winterfolk XXIV Announces Full Schedule With *New* Pricing

Fri Jan 30 2026
Winterfolk

TORONTO, ON — Now celebrating its 24th year, Winterfolk XXIV returns February 13 to 15, 2026 at the Tranzac Club, bringing together folk, roots, blues, and world music in an intimate, listening-room setting. A long-running Toronto festival and registered not-for-profit, Winterfolk champions established artists, elevates emerging voices, and builds community through carefully curated live performances and artist-led workshops.

Winterfolk offers audiences a warm, welcoming space where acoustic music thrives and Toronto’s cultural scene comes together during the heart of winter. With multiple rooms, thematic programming, and interactive workshops, the festival provides a rare opportunity to experience artists up close while exploring the stories, traditions, and ideas behind the music.

CASHBOX RADIO FEBRUARY TOP TEN PICK HITS!

Fri Jan 30 2026
Cashbox Radio Pick Hits!

Seven years ago, when COVID hit, I was grounded from travelling and doing my keynote speaker appearances in Europe. And that is how Cashbox Radio was born. Now with listeners in Germany, Brazil, UK, Norway, Finland, Sweden, France, USA, Philippines our listeners are from all over world, once again showing music has no borders.

We gathered as music professionals, and we compiled an eclectic library that now exceeds over 7,500 tracks from all eras and many countries. And we are adding new songs daily.

So then we thought we should have a way to combine indie artists with hit artists to compile what could the Top Ten of most requested songs on the station every month.

Here are the Top Ten (in alphabetical order) for The Top Ten Pick Hits for February 2026.
 

8Banger - I Don't Want to Go

Bruno Mars - I Just Might 
 

The JUNOS Announce the 2026 Nominees

Fri Jan 30 2026
The JUNOS Announce the 2026 Nominees

The 2026 Nominees list has been announced and as always, the strong support of Canadian Indie Artists is outstanding.

2026 JUNO Award Independent Nominees:
TD JUNO FAN CHOICE bbno$ - Independent*Broke/CMG Shubh – Independent   

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OR GROUP OF THE YEAR PRESENTED BY FACTOR, THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND CANADA’S PRIVATE RADIO BROADIO BROADCASTERS
Goldie Boutilier - Independent Jutes - Position Music Noeline Hofmann - La Honda*The Orchard Saya Gray - Dirty Hit*Virgin Sofia Camara - 21 Entertainment*Universal

ARTIST OF THE YEAR PRESENTED BY SIRIUSXM CANADA
bbno$ - Independent*Broke/CMG

CLASSICAL ALBUM OF THE YEAR (SOLO ARTIST)
Zaytoun - Haitham Haidar - Athene*Naxos Awake and Dreaming - Katherine Dowling - Independent*Leaf/Naxos Obsession - Marie Nadeau-Tremblay - ATMA*Universal

Canadian Folk Music Award Nominee 18-Year-Old Fiddler IRISH MILLIE Explores Growing Up in "Wasted"

Fri Jan 30, 2026

Following a string of prestigious accolades, 19-year-old fiddler, singer, and multi-instrumentalist Irish Millie continues her remarkable ascent in the Canadian roots scene with the release of her latest single, "WASTED". This landmark track serves as a centerpiece of her acclaimed EP 'Between Then and Now', a project that captures the space between two chapters of life and the quiet realization of how much growth happens in the in-between.

www.youtube.com/@IrishMillieFiddleTunes

We caught up with Millie in her hometown of Peterborough, Ontario and this spirited ginger had a lot to share with Cashbox Canada. She is only 19 years old but is an old soul through and through and is passionate about music, life and family.

I asked about her eclectic tastes in music, choosing the classic Devil Went Down to Georgia by the Charlie Daniels Band and Zappa’s Directly From my Heart to You on her live show performances.

Picture This! with Tracey Savein

Fri Jan 23 2026
Picture This! with Tracey Savein

Tracey Savein brings an incredible eye (of the lens) capturing special moments in time. Because as the saying goes – A picture is worth a thousand words. “Any kind of photography, as I see it, is all about capturing motion and emotion. Whether the subject is raucous and rockin’ or the location is silent and still, if you can transport the viewer into a moment in time with an image and relay the energy of that moment, well, there’s your photograph.” – Tracey Savein

Paul James 75th Birthday - January 17th @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto

Paul James 75th Birthday - January 17th @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto

Local rock n’ roll reveller, Paul James belts out the blues on his 75th during his annual birthday bash for a full house of longtime friends and fans at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto

Juno-Nominated Singer/Songwriter Lisa Hartt Releases Heartfelt New Single “Best Friend”

Fri Jan 23, 2026

Lisa Hartt is Montreal-born, Canadian singer/songwriter and a Juno Nominee in the 70’s when she as the lead singer of The Lisa Hartt Band, which garnished her a hit single with ‘Old Time Movie’, which put her name into the Canadian music industry archives for eternity. She was awarded the Cashbox Legacy Award in 2023 at the Canadian Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, while she was on tour there. 
Now Lisa Hartt is about to release her new heartfelt song dedicated to her “Best Friend”.

We caught up with Lisa Hartt at her home in Toronto, Canada.

"‘Best Friend’ began as a conversation I wasn’t yet ready to finish.”

Industry Icon Eric Alper Joins the Team as an Adjudicator for North2North Competition

Thu Jan 15 2026
Eric Alper

Cashbox Canada recently announced the inaugural competition of North2North, The Artist Gateway between Canada and Sweden.

We are happy to announce that industry icon Eric Alper joins the Team as an Adjudicator for North2North Competition, a Canadian indie artist competition, that is open now. Artists will have the opportunity to have top notch adjudicators hear, listen and provide feedback on each and every submission, a value that creates winning no matter what the final decision is for the chosen participants. The winners will travelling in a Canadian contingency to appear at Lilla By Festivalen, in Rinkaby, Sweden, June 12 and 13, 2026. In addition, the winners will receive great prizes right here in Canada.

Legendary Singer-Songwriter Marc Jordan's Definitive Biography 'Rhythm of My Heart' Out Now For Global Release

Thu Jan 15 2026
Marc Jordan

There are some voices in the Canadian musical canon that paint entire cinematic landscapes. Marc Jordan is one of those rare, essential artists. Today, he is thrilled to announce the release of Rhythm of My Heart: The Authorized Biography of Marc Jordan, a deep-dive exploration of a career that has shaped the sound of popular music for over fifty years. Written by Don Breithaupt and available now, this book offers an unprecedented look at the Brooklyn-born, Toronto-raised legend whose songs have sold over 35 million units and defined the uncompromising quality that is the hallmark of a true visionary.

Bif Naked Unveils "Snowblinded" Music Video From Her First Studio Album in 15 Years, 'Champion'

Thu Jan 15 2026
Bif Naked

Bif Naked Doc Screenings: Film, Q&A with Bif, Acoustic Performance:
February 26, 2026, Isabel Bader Centre, Kingston, ON
March 1, 2026, Yates Theatre, Lethbridge, AB
March 2, 2026, Bella Concert Hall, Calgary, AB
March 4, 2026, Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre , Medicine Hat, AB
March 5, 2026, Dekker Centre, North Battleford, SK
March 7, 2026, Dow Centennial Centre (Shell Theatre), Fort Saskatchewan, AB
March 9, 2026, Broadway Theatre, Saskatoon, SK
March 10, 2026, Towne Theatre, Vernon, BC
March 13, 2026, Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, Thunder Bay, ON

Fresh off a triumphant run of sold-out documentary screenings across Canada in 2025, which kicked off with an Audience Choice Award at the Calgary International Film Festival and streaming debuted on Super Channel—iconic Canadian artist Bif Naked releases the new single and music video, “Snowblinded,” from her acclaimed 2025 studio album, Champion. The release marks a powerful next chapter, channelling the raw energy and connection of her recent documentary successes directly back to her fans.