Pop-Up Conversations: Stories from Canada’s Music Scene

My name is Alexa Young

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with Pop Up Conversations.

Since 2021, we’ve spoken with artists from across Canada, and you’ll find some of those conversations featured here. We’re in the process of building out individual episode pages, adding themes, timestamps, and other ways to make the content easier to navigate and enjoy at your own pace. Feel free to check back as we continue shaping things. For now, you can find our conversations on YouTube and Instagram. And if there’s a specific interview you’re looking for, just let us know and we’ll share the link.

Thanks, and see you soon

Alli Walker (Available)

Alli Walker opens up about her musical journey through the pandemic, unveiling the evolution of her upcoming album Growing Up. As she nears her 30s, Walker shares the autobiographical nature of her songwriting and how TikTok, with over 200,000 followers, has become a key tool for connecting with her audience. She delves into her approach to music video production, strategic collaborations, and the value of networking at events like the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs). With 15 years in the industry, she stresses the importance of a solid business plan, goal tracking, and overcoming challenges, such as song cover clearance issues, while staying true to her artistic vision.

Alexa Goldie (Unavailable)

Alexa reflects on how moving to Nashville has boosted her music career, providing more opportunities, networking, and influences from fellow songwriters. She shares her growth as a songwriter, now creating raw, authentic music. Her new single, "He Would," focuses on the idea that true care in a relationship shows through effort. Alexa discusses the recording process for the song and its upcoming May 11th release, with an acoustic video planned. She expresses gratitude for the ongoing support she's received.

Bywater Call (Unavailable)

Bywater Call reflects on their return to live performances post-pandemic, discussing early Ontario shows and European tour challenges. They highlight musical influences from soul legends and New Orleans culture, and explore the creation of their sophomore album Remain, shaped by COVID-19 disruptions. The band expresses excitement for promoting Remain and working on new material in 2023, showcasing their resilience and artistic commitment.

Caity Gyorgy (Unavailable)

Jazz artist Caity takes us on a journey through her love for music, her rise on Instagram, and the longevity of her career. She shares how discovering her passion at a young age shaped her path, leading to Juno Awards, collaborations with La Reserve Records, and a thriving career. Caity dives into the power of transcription, her songwriting process, and the mentors who guided her along the way. She also reflects on her latest Christmas single, the thrill of orchestral arrangements, and her excitement for future tours—hopefully in Europe! While awards are great, she’s just grateful to be living her dream as a full-time musician.

Francis Arevalo (Unavailable)

Francis Averalo dives into his hip hop journey, tracing early inspirations like the Black Eyed Peas and Lupe Fiasco that lit his creative spark in high school. He shares how he taught himself music production in 2016, driven by a desire to shape his sound and vision. Francis opens up about navigating mental health challenges, a turning point that deepened his connection to music and purpose. He breaks down his latest work, from the metaphor-rich single "Heat Check" to "Do You", a soulful collaboration with Desiree Dawson about staying true to yourself. Through it all, Francis is crafting music that speaks to who he is—and who he was.

Francois Clark (Unavailable)

Francois Klark takes us behind the scenes of his sophomore album Adventure Book—a pandemic-born project that spans continents and emotions. From the volcanic landscapes of Guatemala to the colorful streets of Mexico, the album unfolds like a cinematic journey, guided by a sun metaphor and enriched by global collaborations. We dive into the making of his latest single “Fuego,” the artistic vision behind the visuals, and what’s next: a Dolby Atmos release and a special
vinyl edition packed with bonus content.

Justine Blanchet (Unavailable)

In a powerful conversation, Justine Blanchet opened up about how a life-threatening health crisis at 12 sparked her path into music. Starting with opera and classical crossover, she found her true voice in country at 15—guided by influences like Shania Twain and Reba McEntire. She dove into the story behind her latest single “Heartless”—a bold anthem about recognizing toxic relationships—complete with a symbol-rich, self-directed video. Justine also teased her upcoming EP "Don't Ask Me to Dance", recorded in Nashville with top-tier collaborators, and shared her goals of performing on TV, securing a U.S. visa, and prepping for the radio release of “Heartless” on April 14.

Jace Carrillo (Unavailable)

Jace Carrillo discusses his musical journey from Venezuela to Canada, blending gospel, R&B, and Latin influences. He shares insights into his upcoming album Phenomena, focusing on love and space, and his plans to release singles episodically. Reflecting on key career moments, including competing in La Voix Quebec and learning from Ryan Tedder, Jace previews his new single, "Desaparecerse." Looking ahead, he aims to expand his reach through industry connections, merchandise, and live performances.

Madison (Unavailable)

Maddisun takes us on a journey through her musical evolution—from her small-town roots in Cranbrook to the transformative years she spent in Ireland. She channeled her experiences into her debut album, Self Reflections, drawing inspiration from her musical family and legends like Dolly Parton and Fleetwood Mac. She shares the story behind her lead single, Running, a song of resilience, and the cinematic, western-themed music video filmed in Canada's desert region. Maddisun also teases her upcoming album, Home is Where the Music Is, which explores themes of self-discovery, mental health, and empowerment. Looking ahead, she’s embracing new creative ventures, including an AI-driven music video, a new EP, and an upcoming tour stop in Edmonton—all while setting her sights on higher production quality and future recordings in Nashville or Austin.

Meryem Saci (Unavailable)

Meryem Saci reflects on her musical journey and the evolution of her identity over the past decade. She highlights the significance of blending elements of her upbringing and adult experiences to craft a distinct narrative and sound. Her work explores themes of self-discovery, balancing consciousness with worldly desires, overcoming life’s challenges, and using music as an emotional outlet. Her EP Game of Life embodies these existential questions and realizations, offering listeners a sense of empowerment and connection. Looking ahead, there is a strong interest in delving deeper into the intersections of her story, music, and broader narratives.

Madison Violet (Unavailable)

Madison Violet’s Lisa and Bradley open up about life on the road post-pandemic—equal parts nerve-wracking and rewarding. Reflecting on 20+ years of grassroots touring, they share the lessons behind smarter touring, their origin story from Toronto in '99, and how lockdown led them to self-produce their 11th album in a renovated Airstream. The album dives into vulnerability, shaped by their emotional contrasts, with the lead single "Sycamore" tackling mental health and the power of community. As they navigate an ever-changing music industry, they celebrate the fans who still treasure physical

albums—and the deeper connection music can bring.

Perpie Awele (Unavailable)

Perpi Awele explores her musical journey—from her roots in Nigeria to her evolution as a saxophonist and composer. She shares how a deep connection with her audience led her to pivot from biochemistry to music, embracing the saxophone through self-teaching and inspiring others along the way. Her creative process emphasizes collaboration, resulting in compositions like Meditation and The Landing 1803, which narrates the history of Igbo slaves. She also discusses the significance of her EJ Live Project, reflects on her childhood in a close-knit community, and her efforts to recreate that spirit for her children in Canada. Looking ahead, she announces her upcoming album, EJ Awili, set for release ahead of a major concert on September 23rd—potentially at a larger venue to accommodate her growing audience.

Mia Kelly (Unavailable)

In this heartfelt conversation, singer-songwriter Mia Kelly opens up about her deeply personal album Garden through the War. Exploring themes of vulnerability as strength, Mia discusses her songwriting roots, mental health, and the healing power of music. From poetic influences like Leonard Cohen to the community that sustains her, Mia offers an intimate look at her artistic journey—and why lasting impact matters more than fame.

Reeny Smith (Unavailable)

Reeny Smith gets real about her musical evolution in this candid conversation. From intimate acoustic shows on tour with Classified to the soulful sounds of her latest single Amber Lights, Reeny shares how live performances push her creativity and confidence. She talks ’90s R&B influences, vocal growth, and upcoming projects — including a cross-country collaborative album and a fun, family-driven Christmas release. Rooted in authenticity, Reeny's mission is clear: to inspire the next generation of Nova Scotian artists.

Rachel Hickey (Unavailable)

Rachel Hickey shares her musical journey, from early influences in classic rock and Christian music to her evolving creative process. She delves into her song "High," exploring themes of self-doubt and confidence, and teases her upcoming album The Eve of St. Agnes, inspired by John Keats. She also highlights the mood-driven music video for "High" and her aspirations to expand live performances, including in Edmonton, as she prepares for her album release by summer’s end.

Sade Awele (Unavailable)

Sadé Awele, dives into her musical influences, drawing inspiration from Jill Scott and Whitney Houston while shaping a sound that fuses Afrosoul, R&B, jazz, gospel, and contemporary styles. She reflects on her evolving songwriting process, moving toward improvisational melodies influenced by live performances. Discussing her song "Intuition," she reveals the deep collaboration and personal storytelling behind it. The conversation also explores her cinematic music video, directed by Bruna Arbex, which has gained recognition at film festivals. Looking ahead, Sade teases performances at Talon Music Week and Canadian Music Week, along with a new EP incorporating Afrobeats, set for release this fall.

Studio Notes