THE M FOR MONTREAL FESTIVAL, PRESENTED BY SIRIUS XM, IS COMING
THIS NOVEMBER 19-22!
For its 20th edition, the M for Montreal festival is celebrating a new identity while keeping its distinctive energy. Previously known as the “Marathon,” the public-facing portion, presented once again by Sirius XM, is returning with its successful formula: over 80 artists from Canada and abroad, more than 40 concerts across 15+ of Montreal’s most iconic venues.
More than ever, M for Montreal is establishing itself as an essential launching pad for discovering local musical talent. Building on its history, the festival is coming back strong with a fiery lineup, bringing together rising stars from here and international sensations. It’s a musical celebration designed for a passionate and authentic audience.
ANNOUNCING THE 2025 PUBLIC LINEUP
Following meticulous work by the programming team, Mikey Rishwain Bernard, programmer and artistic director of the festival-conference for 20 years, and Cindy Andrey, formerly a programmer at MURAL, M for Montreal is proud to unveil the musical lineup for its 20th edition. Over 80 artists will make the city buzz during four electrifying festival days in 15 of the city’s most iconic venues. Discover the names of those who will make the city vibrate from November 19-22!
Individual ticketings will open on september 23, 2025.
A 20TH EDITION THAT UNITES PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE
For its 20th anniversary, M for Montreal is pulling out all the stops with a festive and eclectic lineup that celebrates two decades of musical discovery.
The team is proud to announce Toronto’s BADBADNOTGOOD as the headliner, presented in collaboration with Third Side Music. The band is also celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, making this a perfect double celebration. Known for their adventurous blend of jazz, hip-hop, soul, and electronic music, they have collaborated with acclaimed artists like Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, The Creator, and Ghostface Killah. After their first appearance at the festival in 2014, the band is returning to the city to mark this milestone. Opening the show will be Colin Stetson, the internationally renowned saxophonist and composer known for his unique style and collaborations with artists such as Arcade Fire, Bon Iver, and Feist.
A major highlight of this year’s festival is the return of The Besnard Lakes, the iconic Montreal psychedelic rock band. Their performance marks the launch of their new album, Ghost Nation, at the Sala Rossa, nearly two decades after their first appearance at the festival. Their soundscapes and soaring harmonies continue to make a lasting impression on both the local and international music scene. The festival is also proud to welcome Digable Planets back to Montreal for their Blowout Comb 30th Anniversary Tour. These legends of American jazz-rap continue to move crowds with their sophisticated grooves and innovative lyrics and sounds, promising a memorable night not to be missed!
This year’s program also features two other album launches. Afternoon Bike Ride will put on a dreamy show to celebrate their new album, Running With Scissors, and we’ll also be celebrating the launch of a new album from Original Gros Bonnet, a rising star on the Montreal scene.
For its 20th edition, the festival will shine a spotlight on several standout artists from the current music scene. This includes Chiara Savasta and her confident, refined pop-punk, Fine Food Market whose dreamy pop instantly captivates audiences, and ROWJAY, a true phenomenon from Saint-Léonard whose authentic rap is selling out shows in both Montreal and France.
This year, M for Montreal is also collaborating with other key players in the Quebec and Canadian music scenes to present stage takeovers. These unique nights give various organizations, such as the returning M for Mothland and newcomer 444, free rein to curate their own shows and let their artistic vision shine. Paper Bag Records and Rough Trade Publishing are also set to deliver a performance that will be a highlight of this anniversary celebration.
With over 80 local and international artists, from The Franklin Electric to the UK’s Gruff Rhys, and many others like Choses Sauvages, Hologramme, and N NAO, this edition promises a wealth of new discoveries and celebrations. The festival will bring together artists for collaborations, launches, and milestone moments, ensuring Montreal’s music scene pulses with both local and international rhythms.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS TO OUR PARTNERS FROM HERE AND ABROAD
Beyond being a celebration for the public, the M for Montreal festival, presented by Sirius XM, is a key industry event that spotlights Canadian and international talent, providing a platform for companies to showcase their artists.
We would like to extend a huge thank you to all our partners for their support: SoundCzech, Focus Wales, Rose Festival, Wide Days, the Ça colle au Basque initiative in collaboration with the Etxepare Basque Institute and Base Productions.
We also count among our local programming partners: Mothland, and Blue Skies Turn Black, BRAVO, Cult Nation, Rosemarie Records, Prémisse Boîte Créative, Chivi Chivi, Maison Pingouin, Les Francouvertes, Big in the Garden, MRG Live, School Night, Rough Trade Publishing, Paperbag Records, 444, Third Side Music, Music Ontario, CION (Cultural Industries Ontario North), Music BC, SaskMusic, Manitoba Music, Alberta Music.
We also thank our media partners: Billboard Canada, Brooklyn Vegan, Ici Musique, Sors-tu.ca, Le Canal Auditif, and NatyfTV.
ABOUT M FOR MONTRÉAL
20 years of musical connections and sealed deals.
Since 2005, M for Montreal has served as a crucial catalyst for emerging artists, propelling them toward national and international careers. For our 20th edition this year, we are proud to offer a special and memorable program. Over four days, more than 500 local and international music industry professionals will gather to discover new talent at showcases, attend inspiring conferences, and participate in strategic networking events. Join us in celebrating two decades of elevating the music scene and solidifying Montreal’s role as a global music industry hub.
