“Live music is not only a powerful economic driver; it is a cornerstone of Canada’s creative ecosystem and cultural identity,” the Vancouver-based music industry executive says.
The Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) has appointed Nate Sabine as the new chair of the organization.
For over two decades, Sabine has been immersed in Vancouver’s entertainment scene — from self-producing club nights and rap concerts to managing homegrown hip-hop artists in the late 90s and early 2000s to his current role as director of business development at Blueprint, one of the west coast’s largest independent live concert and festival companies.
Since joining Blueprint in 2012, Sabine notably co-founded the annual Mental Wealth seminar series, a free interactive event that promotes positive mental health within the community. In 2025, a Revelios survey found that 94% of participants believed mental health issues were prevalent within the music industry.
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In addition, Sabine previously served on the board of ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Collective, and was president of Music B.C. from 2021 to 2024, supporting grassroots organizations that aim to boost diversity and champion local acts within the industry.
He will work with the CLMA's team to bring artists and fans together and continue to nurture a live music scene that benefits the country.
“Canada’s live music industry is at a critical inflection point,” Sabine shares in an exclusive statement to Billboard Canada. “While stable, predictable funding is critically important, the sector’s ability to thrive depends on a balanced combination of supportive policies, strategic investment and a strong ecosystem.”
He continues: “Artists, companies, and venues across the country have the talent and drive to grow, innovate and contribute more — and can if the right structures and partnerships are in place. Live music is not only a powerful economic driver; it is a cornerstone of Canada’s creative ecosystem and cultural identity.”
It’s Sabine’s passion that caught the attention of Erin Benjamin, president & CEO of the CLMA, who has been vocal about the importance of live music in Canada during an uncertain political climate for touring artists.
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“Canada has a large number of exceptional industry leaders, but Nate’s impact on our sector stands out for its breadth, integrity and long-term vision,” she says. “From grassroots artist development to large-scale touring and festivals, he understands how every part of the live music ecosystem connects — and how strong leadership can lift the entire industry.”
Sabine enters the role during a crucial time for the Canadian live music industry. Last year, the CLMA released its first-ever Hear & Now report, which assessed the economic impact of live music. While it contributes billions of dollars to the economy, the study found that it doesn’t always come without financial strain and venue closures — as illustrated by numerous Canadian music festivals that have struggled or shut down and called to action.
Sabine recently spoke out in favour of the renewal of the Canada Music Fund, which will see the government distributing $48 million over the next three years to several nationwide music organizations, funds and initiatives.
