While Toronto’s favourite end-of-summer tradition, the Canadian National Exhibition may still be months away (August 15-September 1, 2025), organizers couldn’t wait to announce one of its most exciting music lineups to-date, giving music fans an early sneak peek of the headliners slated for the 2025 Bell CNE Bandshell. The annual concert series under the iconic open-air music venue has been a major draw for not only visitors to the Fair – free with CNE admission – but has also attracted some of the biggest names in music throughout the decades. This year is no exception with the first round of performers announced ranging from chart-toppers to multi-platinum selling artists, JUNO winners and Hall of Famers, Super Bowl performers, and music streaming sensations.
“For the price of CNE admission which is under $30 for a general advance ticket, there is no better value to see a full concert set LIVE in-person by some of the most popular artists in the world; and no better way to enjoy the experience than under a summer sunset with the excitement of the CNE around you,” said Emily Kempe, CNE Entertainment Manager. “Whether you’re coming to see your favourite band, or discovering new music, there’s something for everyone – and many more Canadian and international artists still to be announced!”
Advance ticket discounts to the 2025 CNE are available now. Save up to 41% before August 15 by purchasing online at www.TheEx.com.
First Round of Bell CNE Bandshell Headliners:
Opening Day: Friday, August 15 – SHAWN DESMAN is a chart-topping, multi-platinum selling, and award-winning Canadian artist raised in Toronto. He is known as one of the first Canadian R&B artists to achieve widespread recognition in the early 2000s due to his ability to blend musical styles. Within the last two decades, Shawn has created some of the most recognized pop and R&B songs in Canadian music history. From hits like “Electric” (2010) and “Nights Like This” (2010) to his more recent releases like “Maniac” (2022), and “Love Me with the Lights On” (2023), Shawn resonates with fans across generations making.
Saturday, August 16 – LOVERBOY has sold more than 10 million albums while earning four multi-platinum plaques, and eight JUNO Awards as well as being inducted to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame (2009) and Canada’s Walk of Fame (2023). With their trademark red leather pants, bandanas, and high-energy rock sound, Loverboy is best known for their hits “Working for the Weekend,” “Turn Me Loose,” and “Lovin’ Every Minute of It,” to name a few. The band consists of original members Mike Reno as the lead vocalist, Paul Dean on guitar, Doug Johnson on the keyboard, Matt Frenette on drums; and replacing the late Scott Smith on bass is Ken Sinnaeve.
Friday, August 22 – JULY TALK is a 3x JUNO winning alternative rock band identifiable by their electrifying sound and dynamic vocal interplay. Formed in Toronto in 2012, the band features co-vocalists Leah Fray Goldstein and Peter Dreimanis, whose powerful contrasting voices define the band’s signature sound. This dynamic is especially felt in songs like “Summer Dress” (2016), “Push + Pull” (2016), “The Garden (2018), and many more. July Talk is completed by guitarists Ian Docherty and Josh Warburton, as well as drummer Danny Miles and backing vocalist/percussionist Dani Nash.
Saturday, August 23 – THREE DOG NIGHT was one of the most successful rock bands from 1969-1974, releasing 21consecutive top 40 hits (Billboard Magazine record) including classic hits, “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” “Joy to the World,” and “Liar.” The legendary band, founded by Danny Hutton, is now in its sixth decade! The band’s music transcends time, bringing together both new and longtime audiences alike. Since 1986 they’ve performed 3,000 shows and two Super Bowls.
Tuesday, August 26 – BISHOP BRIGGS is an English singer/songwriter known for her powerful voice and genre-blending sound. Her single “River” (2016) became a massive hit, achieving multi-platinum sales and over 1 billion streams. Since her debut, Briggs has performed internationally, captivating audiences with her emotive style at some of the biggest venues, including Coachella and Lollapalooza. Her acclaimed new album, Tell My Therapist I’m Fine (2024) reflects her evolution as an artist, exploring themes of resilience, self-empowerment, and personal growth, as showcased in the newly released single “Woman is King.”
Friday, August 29 – MARIANAS TRENCH is officially returning to the Bell CNE Bandshell! Known for their theatrical sound, harmonies, and ambitious concept albums spanning over 20 years, Marianas Trench rose to fame with their debut album Fix Me, which paved the way for hits like “Cross My Heart” (2010), “Stutter” (2012), and “Fallout” (2012). The band continued to raise the stakes with four more successful albums gaining them seven JUNO Award nominations and winning “Group of the Year” in 2013. Their sixth studio album, Haven, released in 2024 is an entirely new experience.
Saturday, August 30 – DEAN BRODY is a beloved Canadian country singer and songwriter known for his distinct sound and passionate storytelling through lyricism. Born in British Columbia, Dean emerged into the country scene with hits like “Brothers” (2009) and “Canadian Girls” (2010). Throughout his career, the country star has accumulated over 475 million global streams and earned numerous certified platinum and gold singles. His chart-topping hits, like “Can’t Help Myself” featuring The Reklaws, have won him multiple awards, most notably his 18th CCMA Award for “Top Selling Canadian Single”. A true force to be reckoned with, Dean has owned the stage with three national arena tours, two of them breaking national ticket sale records.
In addition to the Bell CNE Bandshell stage, there are five other music stages throughout the CNE to entertain visitors during the 18-day fair, taking place August 15 – September 1, 2025. For more information, go to www.TheEx.com.
