By Melanie Macpherson
For the first time in its 21-year history, BreakOut West is coming to Saskatoon, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers, artists, and industry professionals alike. From September 25th to 29th, the city will transform into a hub of creativity and collaboration, showcasing the best of Western Canadian talent and offering valuable insights into the ever-evolving music industry.
Why BreakOut West Matters
BreakOut West is not just a festival—it’s a five-day celebration that combines a career development conference with an international industry program. This event draws together artists, producers, managers, and music enthusiasts from across the globe, offering attendees the chance to deepen their understanding of the music business, make meaningful connections, and discover exciting new music.
The event kicks off at the Sheraton Cavalier Hotel, where participants can engage in immersive content sessions, workshops, and one-on-one mentor meetings. This is an invaluable opportunity for both emerging and established artists to gain practical advice and insights from industry leaders. Whether you're an artist seeking your next big break or a fan eager to learn more about the music you love, there’s something for everyone.
Locals Leading the Charge
Two key figures leading this massive event are Kurt Dahl, President of the Western Canadian Music Alliance (WCMA), and Michael Dawson, Executive Director of BreakOut West—both originally from Saskatoon! Their deep connection to the city and their extensive experience in the music industry make this year’s event especially exciting for local participants.
Kurt Dahl, in addition to his role at WCMA, is a seasoned entertainment lawyer and a founding member of Saskatoon rock band One Bad Son, celebrating 20 years together this year. His dedication to artists’ rights and passion for music make him a vital advocate for the industry, and his involvement adds a personal touch to this year's conference.
Michael Dawson, with a background in artist management, venue promotion, and his previous role as Executive Director of SaskMusic, brings a wealth of knowledge and an artist-first approach to BreakOut West. His enthusiasm for showcasing Saskatoon’s thriving music scene is palpable, stating, “Saskatoon is a powerhouse arts and cultural city in the heart of our country… We look forward to taking over the city this September!”
A Festival That Showcases the Best of the West
At the heart of BreakOut West is its three-night festival (Sept 26-28), which will showcase over 50 artists across multiple genres. With performances spread across iconic venues in Saskatoon’s Broadway neighbourhood, this is the perfect chance to catch both established names and rising stars.
Several local talents are set to grace the stages, ensuring that Saskatoon’s vibrant music scene is well represented. Keep an eye out for performances by The Garrys, an all-sister surf rock band making waves nationally, as well as Dump Babes, whose eclectic sound and local fanbase make them a must-see act. Other notable Saskatchewan artists include Merv xx Gotti, Last Birds, The Radiant, Grimelda, Marissa Burwell and the boundary-pushing collective Autopilot.
But it’s not just about local talent—BreakOut West will also feature artists from across Western Canada and beyond, including performers from Wales, Germany, and the U.S. Acts like Ayla Tesler-Mabé from BC, Boogey The Beat from Manitoba, and international group Rudy Love & the Encore from the U.S. add a global dimension to the festival, offering audiences an eclectic mix of sounds and styles. Wide Mouth Mason is being inducted into the WCMA Hall of Fame and will be performing on Friday night to celebrate. I've heard rumors of pop up secret shows as well, so watch the BreakOut announcements all week to make sure you don't miss any of your favourites!
More Than Just a Festival
In addition to the live music, BreakOut West offers a chance to celebrate the industry’s finest at the Western Canadian Music Awards, with both Artistic and Industry award winners to be revealed during the event. This is a unique opportunity to see who’s shaping the future of music in Western Canada. Saskatoon fans will want to keep an eye on nominees like William Prince, Meisha and the Spanks, Boy Golden and Celeigh Cardinal, who are leading the charge with multiple nominations.
Be a Part of BreakOut West 2024
If you’re passionate about music, BreakOut West is an event you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re catching your favorite local act at Amigos Cantina, exploring new sounds at the Broadway Theatre, or networking with industry professionals at the Sheraton Cavalier, BreakOut West has something for everyone.
Super affordable Festival wristbands will grant you access to the three-night festival. And for those looking to dive into the world of music industry development, event passes are available that get you into everything.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Saskatoon’s biggest music event this fall. Visit breakoutwest.ca for the full festival schedule, conference details, and more. Let’s make this first-ever BreakOut West in Saskatoon an epic celebration of music, community, and creativity! Get out, support local artists, and immerse yourself in the incredible world of Western Canadian music.
Comments