Headed to Montreal for Folk Alliance International (FAI) in Montreal, acclaimed folk artist Christophe Elie also has his sights set on another profound journey of music and activism. On March 2, Elie will board the Peace Train, traveling from Montreal to New York City alongside Green Party Leader Elizabeth May and other peace advocates to take part in the United Nations Meetings on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (March 3-7, 2025).
Elie is honoured to be performing two showcases at this year’s Folk Alliance International, where he will be sharing the stage with fellow artists and will introduce audiences to new material from his upcoming album.
FAI brings together industry professionals, songwriters, and DJs from over 50 countries, making it an unparalleled opportunity for Elie to connect with folk music’s global community. His sets will feature songs from his forthcoming album, his latest release Columbia, and a re-release of Trump’s Tweets.
As a DJ for CKCU with his own show Songs for the Revolution, Elie plans to soak in the event from another perspective, capturing moments to share with his listeners back home.
Carrying the energy of FAI, Elie will soon embark on another meaningful endeavor—joining the Peace Train on March 2, traveling from Montreal to NYC for the Third Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons at the United Nations.
The Peace Train movement, which previously made an impact in Canada with events in Ottawa, aims to bring together artists, activists, and political leaders to advocate for nuclear disarmament through music and dialogue. Inspired by the legendary “Peace Train” song by Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), Elie is working to organize a performance in New York City—Peace Train: A Night of Music and Words for World Peace.
“When I received the invite for this trip, my only thought was—how am I going to make this happen? Peace has always colored my art and found its way into my songs. From Firekeeper, the fictitious story of a soldier from Whitby, to Mirrors, set in the now-destroyed Gaza city, and my latest release Columbia, the question for peace is always the same: ‘Where do you hide?’” – Christophe Elie
In addition to his performances and activism, Elie is currently working on his next album, produced by Juno-nominated Gareth Auden Hole (Jack Pine and The Fire). The album explores themes of peace, immigration, protest, and the fragile state of our world today. With six songs already recorded, Elie is shaping a collection that reflects both the urgency of the present and the timelessness of folk storytelling.
