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M FOR MONTREAL UNVEILS ITS 21ST OFFICIAL SELECTION!

NOVEMBER 18–21, 2026

From November 18 to 21, M for Montréal, presented by Billboard Canada, returns for another unmissable gathering where music and the industry come together.

For more than 20 years, the festival-conference has established itself as a premier meeting point, bringing together artist showcases, panels, and networking opportunities through its PRO Division, presented by Billboard Canada.

After a meticulous selection process led by the programming team, M for Montréal unveils the 28 artists selected for the Official Showcases: a selection of Québec and Canadian talents standing out for their originality and strong potential to make an impact on the international stage.

The Official Selection of M for Montreal’s 21th edition is proudly presented by Caisse Desjardins de la Culture, whose ongoing commitment helps champion and amplify musical talent from here and beyond. 

ENJOY THE SHOWCASES → GET A PRO PASS

 The 2026 Official Selection showcases a Canadian music scene in full creative momentum, where genres intersect, evolve, and continuously reinvent themselves. Spanning singer-songwriters, indie, rock, pop, electronic music, and alternative sounds, this year’s edition brings together artists who challenge traditional boundaries to create distinctive, contemporary, and deeply personal worlds.Within the indie and singer-songwriter landscape, Lisa LeBlanc continues to deliver her signature blend of folk, rock ’n’ roll, roots, and swamp rock, while Le Ren, Edwin Raphael, Dominique Way, and Lysandre explore different shades of indie folk, independent pop, and introspective songwriting. The pop and alternative scene takes many forms: Geoffroy blends indie electronic textures, organic instrumentation, and refined pop songwriting into an immersive and emotionally driven sound. Gabriella Olivo merges Latin influences, electronic pop, and cinematic atmospheres to create a universe that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking. Hélène Barbier develops a singular avant-pop approach, HAWA B blends alt-soul, R&B, and alternative rock, while Lou Val offers a contemporary vision of Alternative R&B. Cherrykim expands this diversity with a sound rooted in retro soul, neo-soul, and contemporary R&B, while Afrotronix transforms Chadian musical heritage into a futuristic electronic experience, blending Afro Tech, afro house, and amapiano through an Afrofuturist lens.
 
The rock and alternative programming highlights both bold and experimental approaches. Population II and Yoo Doo Right explore psychedelic rock, krautrock, and experimental post-rock, respectively, while Les Shirley, Mulch, Béton Armé, and Faze represent different facets of punk, hardcore, and noise rock. Babyteeth and Bye Parula bring hybrid approaches, blending grunge, dream pop, indie rock, and art pop, reflecting the richness of today’s evolving alternative rock landscape. Meanwhile, zouz continues to push the boundaries of dense, uncompromising rock through noise rock, post-punk, and progressive influences.
 
The Official Selection also highlights projects that intentionally blur stylistic boundaries. Regional scenes are represented by blind commentary (SaskMusic), dead ex girlfriends (SaskMusic), cherry pick (MusicBC), Hillsboro (MusicBC), Lucette (Alberta Music), Sea of Lettuce (Alberta Music), and Virgo Rising (Manitoba Music), showcasing the strength and diversity of independent scenes across the country.The 2026 Official Selection confirms the richness and diversity of Canada’s music ecosystem, bringing together artists who move beyond established categories to reflect a constantly evolving creative landscape, where influences collide and musical identities continue to reinvent themselves.
 
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ARTISTS IN THE OFFICIAL SELECTION
 
OFFICIAL SELECTION – THE OFFICIAL PLAYLIST
 
Official Selection showcases are reserved for PRO and PRO+ pass holders.

A select number of events will also be open to the public as part of M for Montréal’s general programming.
 
Full festival details will be announced on September 2nd.

 
Last chance to get the best rate on Pro and Pro+ passes!
 
Don’t miss your chance to join the M for Montreal experience at the best price.
 
Only until July 8, 11:59 PM (Montréal / EDT, UTC−4), before prices go up!
 
👇SECURE YOUR PRO PASS NOW