Canada’s music scene is thriving, and Black female artists are at the forefront, making waves across genres from R&B and hip-hop to pop and country. These artists bring their unique voices, stories, and talents to the stage, pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a modern musician. Here are five Black Canadian female artists you need to know.
1. Jordan Alexander – @thejordanalexander
Jordan Alexander is not only a gifted actress but also an emerging musical talent. Born and raised in Toronto, she first gained recognition for her role in Sacred Lies: The Singing Bones on Facebook Watch. However, her breakout came when she landed the lead role of Julien Calloway in HBO Max’s reboot of Gossip Girl. This multi-talented artist is building a reputation as both an on-screen star and a musical talent to watch. Her edgy, stylish presence has made her a symbol of fresh talent in the Canadian entertainment industry, blending acting with a passion for music.
2.Omega Mighty – @omegamighty_
Omega Mighty is a dynamic force in Toronto’s music scene. Known for her hypnotic lower vocal register and her fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and dancehall, Omega brings an unmatched energy to every performance. She is not just a singer-songwriter but also a producer, choreographer, and marketing powerhouse. Her latest single, Whine Masta, showcases her talent for blending R&B with dancehall rhythms, along with her signature dance, the ‘Mega Whine,’ which has captivated audiences. Omega has been perfecting her craft since she was four years old, and her determination, along with her sister Haviah Mighty, has made her an unstoppable presence in Canadian music.
3. LU KALA – @igobylu
With her bright orange hair and powerful vocal register, LU KALA is redefining what it means to be a modern pop star. She stands out for her raw, emotive voice that seamlessly blends pop, rock, dance, and disco elements. LU KALA’s debut single Pretty Girl Era catapulted her into the spotlight, and her collaboration with Latto on Lottery became a chart-topping hit. Her music explores themes of confidence, identity, and self-worth, and she’s unafraid to break the mold. LU KALA is proof that Black women can dominate the pop scene on their own terms, and her star is only set to rise higher with her bold, unapologetic anthems.
4. Sacha – @iamsachaofficial
Sacha is the new face of Canadian country music, and she’s bringing diversity and innovation to a traditionally white-dominated genre. Hailing from a small town in Ontario, she made her way to Nashville’s country music scene, where her talent has earned her recognition with CMT’s Next Women of Country. Her platinum single What The Truck, in collaboration with The Reklaws, and her U.S. tour supporting Maddie & Tae cemented her place in country music. Now signed to Sony Music, Sacha is gearing up to release new music in 2024 and continues to inspire with her empowering lyrics and electrifying performances.
5. Savannah Ré – @savannahre
Savannah Ré has quickly become one of the most talked-about voices in Canadian R&B. Raised in Scarborough, Ontario, her debut EP Opia captured the attention of music lovers and critics alike. Savannah’s emotive, soulful voice earned her the Juno Award for Traditional R&B/Soul Recording of the Year for her hit song Solid. She has collaborated with major industry players like Jessie Reyez and Babyface, and her music continues to challenge and uplift the R&B genre. With her work already recognized by the Polaris Music Prize and the Prism Prize, Savannah Ré’s trajectory is set for even greater success.
These five women are redefining the Canadian music scene and beyond, each with their own distinctive style, voice, and message. Whether you’re into R&B, pop, country, or something in between, these Black Canadian female artists are the ones you need to keep on your radar.
Sophie