RBC believes that supporting the arts helps foster vibrant communities with strong economies. Since its inception in May 2020, First Up with RBCxMusic has supported more than 200 artists across an array of genres and backgrounds that reflect Canada’s eclectic cultural mosaic.
Live Nation Canada, the country’s leading live entertainment producer and promoter, will continue to provide valuable performance and exposure opportunities for Featured Artists. This year, artists will receive the opportunity to be opening acts at Live Nation-produced shows at theatre-level venues across the country like RBC Echo Beach (Toronto, ON), Danforth Music Hall (Toronto, ON) and Commodore Ballroom (Vancouver, BC).
“As an emerging artist, being part of First Up with RBCxMusic is a huge step towards bringing my career to the next level,” said Sage Harris, 2023 First Up with RBCxMusic Featured Artist. “With RBCxMusic’s support, I’m excited for my music to reach new audiences and to grow my fanbase.”
Other key partners and program offerings in 2023 include:
- AWAL, the music industry’s leading alternative to traditional music label deals, supported with the talent identification and selection component of the program. AWAL joined as a partner of First Up with RBCxMusic in 2022.
- Canadian nonprofit, Conscious Economics, will also return as a First Up with RBCxMusic partner to co-host an artist summit with the Featured Artists later this year. Building on the summit’s success in 2022, the event will guide Featured Artists through a variety of experiential learning seminars, development programs, networking opportunities, financial therapy and more.
- Yangaroo, the largest North American network for music promotion, will provide educational resources for First Up with RBCxMusic Featured Artists while working with them to distribute their music to radio and TV broadcasters.
- AVRY – Toronto, ON
- Benja – Toronto, ON
- Charlie Houston – Toronto, ON
- Clerel – Richelieu, QC
- Eric Ryan – Toronto, ON
- J. Hutton – Claremont, ON
- Jared Daniel – Calgary, AB
- Joseph Sarenhes – Wendake, QC
- Katie Tupper – Saskatoon, SK
- LIZA – Toronto, ON
- Luna Elle – Mississauga, ON
- Nick Earle – St. John’s, NL
- NORTER – Summerside, PE
- PRIMO – Toronto, ON
- Ray Reaves – Halifax, NS
- Sage Harris – Toronto, ON
- Saveria – London, ON
- Syd Bomek – Winnipeg, MB
- the della kit – Nelson, BC
- The Free Label – Richmond Hill, ON