Every success story in the Toronto music scene is underpinned by the hard work behind the curtains, the challenges faced, and the support from fans and family that make the journey fulfilling. The Red Bull Music Toronto Festival 2019 offered a unique glimpse into the paths of three remarkable Toronto artists making waves both locally and globally: indie-pop sensation MorMor, acclaimed producer Frank Dukes, and innovative R&B artist Jessie Reyez. Taking place from October 17-21, the festival also spotlighted Toronto’s eclectic electronic music scene during the “Encounters” event, which featured DJs from Canada, Jamaica, Poland, the UK, and Russia throughout the night.
Photos by Maria Jose Govea
The festival commenced with MorMor (Seth Nyquist), who brought his unique experimental style to the forefront. The evening began with a captivating performance by Kelsey Lu, who transported attendees into another realm with her enchanting melodies. The talented singer and cellist utilized her instrument and a loop pedal to create haunting echoes while she softly sang. Following her, MorMor captivated the audience with his ethereal vocal range. Anticipation filled the air as fans eagerly awaited his next innovative live performance, and he did not disappoint. Ascending into the venue’s center on a translucent prism, he took the stage with his guitar, illuminated by vibrant neon lights, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
The following day, festival-goers dived into a vibrant world of digital creativity at the “Encounters” event. A lively crowd danced as electronic DJs provided a dynamic soundtrack that lasted into the early hours. Canadian DJs such as Bambii, Ceremonies, Ciel, Chippy Nonstop, Karim Olen Ash, efemmera, Joel Eel, Kehdo, Korea Town Acid, and Raf Reza showcased Toronto’s diverse dance music culture with an array of styles. Paying homage to the city’s cultural diversity, “Encounters” also featured acts like Jamaican experimental dancehall crew Equiknoxx, Poland’s innovative techno artist City Dance Corporation, Russian techno upstart Machine Woman, and UK-based DJ Madam X.
In celebration of Toronto’s local talent, Red Bull hosted an intimate discussion featuring acclaimed multi-genre producer and songwriter Frank Dukes (Adam King Feeney), moderated by Gavin Sheppard, co-founder of The Remix Project and founder of Public Records. The conversation, rooted in their long-standing friendship of over 15 years, delved into Dukes’ beginnings in music, which stemmed from his early exposure to rock and hip hop through skate videos, serving as his introduction to DJ culture.
As the audience listened attentively, Dukes recounted how his journey evolved from turntables to MPCs, marking his entry into beat competitions that eventually landed him studio time with Ghostface Killah. This opportunity marked the beginning of his influential career in hip-hop. After years of producing for various artists and facing sample clearance issues, Dukes began creating original recordings, a move that solidified his presence in the industry. He referred to producing Drake’s “0-100” as a pivotal moment in his career, explaining that it ignited a realization in him about production being a process of making thoughtful decisions. Over time, his innovative style allowed him to explore various genres, leading to chart-topping hits and aiding in the rise of artists like Post Malone and Camila Cabello.
The festival concluded on a high note (literally) with a standout performance by Jessie Reyez during “One Night Only With Jessie Reyez.” Just before embarking on her international tour, the celebrated singer staged a remarkable tribute to her hometown. With no opening act, Reyez made a dramatic entrance on stage in a straitjacket, secured to a gurney. As she awakened the crowd with her upbeat track “Shutter Island,” she humorously declared, “my straitjacket’s custom made though!” while clouds of smoke erupted around her.
The theatrics escalated when a fan, who was actually an actor, instigated a confrontation with Reyez. As the audience began to chant for security intervention, Reyez responded sharply with, “F*ck being friends!” just as her track “F*ck Being Friends” played in the background. The jovial mood shifted dramatically with her poignant song “Gatekeeper,” which featured a stunning dancer moving gracefully around her, but little did the audience know, another surprise awaited behind the curtains. They dropped to unveil a full orchestra and choir, enhancing the performance remarkably.
In a swift transition, Reyez donned a traditional Colombian dress as a Spanish band joined her for a festive mini street celebration, which was joyous and heartwarming. However, the celebratory vibe was interrupted by a skit reflecting on the themes of Reyez’s latest single “Far Away,” which grapples with the harsh realities of deportation and its impact on immigrant families. The audience witnessed a poignant scene of separation as a family was taken from the stage, highlighting the emotional weight of the narrative.
Just as the performance reached new heights, it concluded unexpectedly. Yet, the venue buzzed with inspiration long after Reyez exited the stage. Expertly directed, this one-hour concert might have been the most impressive experience I’ve ever encountered, and more importantly, it served as a powerful example of what independent artists can accomplish with the right support.
Red Bull Music Festival Toronto 2019 was a significant tribute to the various elements that shape urban culture in the city. The event was designed to reflect Toronto’s ever-changing artistic landscape and its rich multicultural heritage, ensuring its place in the annals of the city’s musical legacy.
Connect with Red Bull Music Canada:Twitter|Facebook|Instagram
