Plus, Francophone rapper Souffrance performs in Montreal, while artists Softcult and Cate play home province concerts in Toronto and Vancouver, respectively.
This week, underground U.K. rapper EsDeeKid is flexing with his first set of shows in Canada, performing three sold-out dates between Montreal and Toronto. With only one album under his belt, the Scouse artist has been on a red-hot rise to the top, scoring multiple spots on the Billboard Canada charts, proving his hold on Canadian listeners — despite his mysterious appearance.
Additionally, French hip-hop artist Souffrance scores one night in Montreal, while Ontario twin-sibling duo Softcult performs an album release show in Toronto. Then, Canadian-born pop singer Cate secures her first-ever hometown show on the west coast.
Concert of the Week
EsDeeKid, Théâtre Fairmount, Montreal — January 30; The Mod Club, Toronto — January 31, February 1
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EsDeeKid is on the brink of a breakthrough.
In recent months, the underground Scouse rapper has experienced a rapid rise on the charts, landing multiple tracks on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 from his debut record, Rebel, which peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart. Now, he’s bringing his music across the pond.
EsDeeKid often leans on experimental, internet-influenced sounds and has had a rapid viral rise. His ascension has likely already grown beyond the intimate venues he’s set to play in Montreal and Toronto — one night in the latter, two nights in the former — making them undoubtedly hot-ticket shows.
In Toronto, fellow U.K. artist Rico Ace will join EsDeeKid on his two-night stint in the city. The duo have collaborated on charting tracks “Phantom” and “LV Sandals,” cementing their places in the underground scene, often pairing vocals with distorted, bass-heavy beats and unconventional song structures. Fans will have to wait and see if Rico joins the headliner on stage.
EsDeeKid often sports a mask or a balaclava, excluding a strip of flesh visible at eye level. While some fans claimed that the rapper was actor Timothée Chalamet in disguise, the pair debunked the rumours as they hopped on a “4 Raws” remix, racking up over 120 million views on Instagram.
To close out a string of tour dates, French rapper Souffrance is hitting Montreal. After making waves in Europe — as a solo artist and a member of hip-hop group L'Uzine – the Francophone artist is heading out on his own to draw in Canada’s French-speaking listeners. In support of his 2025 album, Hiver Automne, the rapper’s latest release channels 90s hip-hop influences as he delivers direct, often dark lyrics with his distinct rap flow — keeping listeners entranced.
Softcult, The Drake Hotel Underground, Toronto — January 30
In anticipation of their debut LP, When A Flower Doesn’t Grow, alternative indie-rock duo Softcult are performing a sold-out album release show in Toronto. Comprised of twin siblings Mercedes Arn-Horn and Phoenix Arn-Horn, the Kitchener, Ontario natives fuse shoegaze and grunge sounds, crafting a Riot Grrrl movement for modern day. “It’s been a really long time coming, and we can’t wait to share this new music with you,” the duo shared on Instagram.
After releasing an array of pop-infused anthems over the past couple of years, singer-songwriter Cate is taking the stage in her hometown for the first time. Previously based in the U.K, the Canadian-born, Nashville-based artist has captivated audiences on TikTok — bringing her high-energy to an eager crowd. Combining sugary pop tones against vulnerable lyricism, fans can expect a mix of songs, including unreleased bops from her forthcoming debut album.
