Held in vibrant Montreal, Canada, the OSHEAGA Music and Arts Festival is known for its unique celebration of music from all genres. This annual event celebrated its 16th year, and continues to attract music lovers from all walks of life and countries around the globe. They offer a wide selection of artists that span a variety of genres, encouraging attendees to experiment with musical fusion. From electronic to hip-hop to folk, and everything in between, OSHEAGA’s commitment to providing different genres brings unforgettable experiences for the festival goers, making it one of the most anticipated summer events in North America. There is nothing that compares to the beauty and authenticity of OSHEAGA, and Voyage’s second annual trip was even better than 2022.
Friday started off strong with an exciting interview with the genre-bending, and overall badass BBNO$, a Canadian rapper from Vancouver. When asked what makes this weekend such a diverse experience, he described OSHEAGA as a “tastemakers festival”, stating that “… a lot of the people who get booked are more eclectic sounding. Montréal brings together art better than most places, in my opinion, and it feels like the Coachella of Canada, but more refreshing (and less dusty)”.
Other highlights included English singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone, American producer Two Feet, French pop nu-disco band L’Imperatrice and a powerful close from Australian synth-heavy alternative dance group, Rufus Du Sol.
Saturday was spectacular, starting off with memorable moments from Goth Babe, who currently lives on a 30 foot sailboat in California, writing music. American singer-songwriter, Fletcher, was a total crowd favorite, with her charismatic stage presence, babe energy and enduring lyricism. Rapper Lil Yachty’s performance was a blast, with a blend of easy-going melodies and liveliness.
The ultimate highlight of Saturday was the infamous Billie Eilish, who rose to fame originally with her 2015 hit, “Ocean Eyes”. Fans camped out for 8 hours in the blazing sun to be front row against the barricade for Billie, and her electric combination of pyro-technics, stage graphics and fireworks captured the essence of what every show should be – something that leaves the viewer in utter awe. It was exceptionally iconic to hear “What Was I Made For” live, after the recent release of the Barbie movie, where many tears were shed by both the young and young at heart.
Sunday wrapped up the incredible weekend with American music duo, The Driver Era, Filipino-English singer-songwriter Beabadoobee, English singer-songwriter Tom Odell, LA-based German singer-songwriter Kim Petras, and English DJ and record producer Fred Again.
Perhaps the most memorable performance of the weekend was Kendrick Lamar, who’s pure hip hop craftsmanship and progressive intentionality is beyond admirable. His set was a blend of old classics and a few newer hits. He passed out each of the three paper set lists to individual fans on the barricade at the end of the evening, expressing to the crowd that they represented everything OSHEAGA should be. It was a perfect cap to an eventful weekend.
Ultimately, OSHEAGA is more than a festival. It’s more than music. It’s a celebration of life, unity, and creativity. The genuine atmosphere of a record breaking 155,000 attendees, friendly camaraderie and support from over 4,000 staff and volunteers, and stunning performances from 92 different artists came together to create a weekend that fans will remember for years to come.
