Some of the best, most innovative musical acts ever started out when they were merely teens – The Runaways, The Strokes, The Arctic Monkeys, to name just a few – and Canada’s Teen Jam, a first-of-its-kind performance showcase, is well aware of the immense talent and creativity that can be developed during that wonderful time of life.
Canada’s Teen Jam will allow finalists to perform on a massive concert stage as an opener to this year’s Wayback Festival in Kitchener, Ontario, on July 22 featuring JUNO Award winners Kim Mitchell and Sass Jordan. The performance will allow teen artists to explore their natural musical talents in front of both their peers and industry heavyweights.
Teen Jam counts Premier Doug Ford, as well as Kitchener Councillor Bil Ioannidis, as supporters. “Music and the arts have the power to engage and inspire young people,” Ford said. “Music gives our youth a chance to express themselves, develop discipline, and excel.”
“Thank you to the wonderful team behind Canada’s Teen Jam and the Wayback Festival for giving our next generation of musicians and musical performers this platform to hone their talents and gain exposure to audiences and music industry professionals,” Ford continued. “And congratulations to all the young people taking the stage. You’re all absolute champions. Keep up the good work!”
Teen Jam was created by Mark Higgins, producer, and founder of Big Music Fests, which has featured A-listers including Aerosmith, Bryan Adams, Soundgarden, The Tragically Hip, Slash, ZZ Top and many more legendary acts.
“When you support musical teens, you empower the entire teen community,” Higgins said. “Musical growth is absolutely essential for the future of our music industry. Without our up-and-coming next generation of artists being supported, the creative wall will crumble.”
Teens ages 13 to 19 can submit video performances here, along with a $10 submission fee. Cash prizes will be awarded for the best performances – $1,000 in the band category, and $500 for the solo-artist category. All sounds and musical styles are encouraged, as well as both original songs and covers. More information can also be found on Canada’s Teen Jam’s Instagram and TikTok.
The Teen Jam and corresponding Wayback Festival will also include a free concert on Saturday, July 22nd, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., featuring Kim Mitchell and very special guest Sass Jordan.
