FORMS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH
FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF PRESENTING EMERGING TALENT TO LIVE MUSIC FANS
2025 FESTIVAL TO TAKE PLACE IN TORONTO
JUNE 11-15
NXNE NOW ACCEPTING ARTIST APPLICATIONS FOR 2025 FESTIVAL WEEK: https://www.nxne.com/
(Toronto, ON - October 23, 2024) In an exciting development for both companies, Canada’s leading music discovery festival, North by Northeast (NXNE) and ArtsHouse Media Group (AMG), publishers of influential music authority Billboard Canada, are proud to announce their strategic partnership.
This collaboration combines the strengths of NXNE, which for the last three decades has been integral in identifying new talent and opening doors for upcoming artists, and Billboard Canada, recognized for its unparalleled music business coverage, legendary charts and trend setting industry events.
Together, they will leverage their combined expertise and resources to expand the festival’s reach, foster growth, and create an even more dynamic experience—while staying true to NXNE's long-standing commitment to supporting artists and making it easy for audiences to discover exciting new music from around the world.
“As we enter our 30th year, we are thrilled to welcome AMG and Billboard Canada as partners in NXNE. In addition to sharing ambitious, entrepreneurial goals, we also share values including our foundational commitment to diversity and an “artist first” approach to serving our communities,” said NXNE president and founder Michael Hollett.
“The Billboard Canada and AMG partnership allows NXNE to authentically increase the level of music industry participation in Northby while still prioritizing showcases and empowering emerging artists at the festival.”
“And of course, we are excited by the media properties AMG brings to the mix. These media partnerships will raise the profile of the artists as well as connect with audiences eager to experience the next big thing at NXNE.”
These sentiments are echoed by Amanda Dorenberg, CEO of Billboard Canada and ArtsHouse Media Group who said, “This partnership with NXNE comes at an exciting time for both Billboard Canada and AMG. As NXNE marks its 30th anniversary, we are aligning our shared goals of elevating artists and engaging music lovers. Together, we’ll amplify the festival’s impact, providing artists with a broader platform to reach audiences and creating new ways for fans to discover fresh talent.”
After experiencing substantial growth in 2024 with ticket sales and attendance increasing by 50%, NXNE will return for its 30th anniversary of presenting emerging talent to live music fans in Toronto, beginning Weds., June 11 through to Sun., June 15 2025. Artist applications for the 2025 festival are now open at https://www.nxne.com/
NXNE is also excited to confirm that its official headquarters for the 2025 festival week will be at The Theatre Centre (1115 Queen Street West). The festival will occupy the entire Theatre Centre building presenting shows at night and providing an artists’ hangout and resource centre during the day. All in the midst of the Queen West club district, just across the street from the Drake, another NXNE venue.
With a decades-long commitment to delivering an extraordinary musical experience, NXNE’s programmers curate a vibrant and eclectic lineup each year, showcasing some of the most promising musical talents from Canada and beyond.
Emphasizing an artist-centric approach, NXNE prioritizes accessibility and inclusion, striving to make a lasting impact by empowering and supporting artists through meaningful connections, education, and, above all, providing a platform for performance. Distinct from other festivals, NXNE is resolutely focused on dismantling financial barriers for both creators and audiences. This commitment is reflected in its policy of waiving application fees for performers, ensuring that artists receive compensation for their contributions, and maintaining the festival pass price at the same level as at its 1995 inception.
North by Northeast (NXNE) has been Canada’s leading festival of music discovery since 1995. Canadian and international stars from Billy Talent, Haviah Mighty and Sam Roberts to Lizzo and The Lumineers all performed critical NXNE showcases early in their careers. Originally formed in partnership with Austin’s SXSW, founder Michael Hollett continues to lead NXNE as president and CEO, along with managing director Barbara Hefler. The festival’s primary goal remains to showcase and support emerging musical talent from Canada and around the world while promoting Toronto’s live music scene.
About ArtsHouse Media Group (AMG):
ArtsHouse Media Group is a premier music media company and publisher producing bilingual content that resonates with audiences across Canada and beyond. As the parent company of Billboard Canada, Billboard UK, Rolling Stone Quebec, Waveland Canada, Climate Library, and Arts Help, AMG collaborates with diverse creators to elevate voices and deliver compelling narratives. Through innovative storytelling and strategic partnerships, AMG connects local culture with global audiences at the forefront of the new cultural economy, redefining the media landscape.
NXNE Media Inquiries:
Listen Harder Music Publicity
Jen Cymek | jen@listenharder.com
Cristina Fernandes | cristina@listenharder.com