In celebration of its upcoming 30th anniversary this year, North by Northeast (NXNE) has announced that it will be honouring the city of Mississauga in its first-ever Spotlight City program.
Mississauga has fuelled the Canadian music scene with icons such as Billy Talent and Alex Porat, as well as rising stars Elyse Saunders, Luna Elle and more. The city was named Music City of the Year by the Canadian Live Music Association in 2023 after opening its dedicated music office, and has continued to be recognized nationally for its commitment to music and its strength as a music incubator.
With support from Visit Mississauga, NXNE will feature a performance from hometown artist and two-time JUNO Award-winner Aqyila at Sankofa Square on June 12 at NXNE's anniversary party.
Other Mississauga artists hitting the stage at the festival this year are Adina V, Bree Taylor, Charmaine, CMAGIC5, gee., Jade Hilton, the Jailbirds, MAYBE MAY, A Weekend at Ramona's and more.
"We're thrilled to be adding the Spotlight City program to NXNE, allowing us to highlight Music Cities from all over the world. And Mississauga — the musical hotbed west of Toronto — is the perfect premiere partner," NXNE Founder and President Michael Hollett shared in a release. "Mississauga superstars Billy Talent played the very first NXNE, and the city has been a leader in taking steps to support its local music scene."
NXNE is running from June 11 to 15 this summer across multiple venues in Toronto. Tickets for the festival are on sale now.