Music News

From viral Rickrolls to sonic glitches, these are the essential tracks to fuel your April Fools' social feeds and online mischief

Michael Balzary – better known to the world as Flea—has been the kinetic, shirtless heartbeat of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. But he’s traded his bass for the instrument that first stole his heart

New music from Marc Broussard, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Stuck On Planet Earth, Muse, and Death Cab for Cutie

Willie Nelson returns to the road this July for a 12-city summer tour featuring Sheryl Crow, Wilco, and The Avett Brothers

Classic rock swagger and soulful grit mark the band’s latest, with lead single “Profane Prophecy” setting the tone for a lively, unpolished return

New music from White Denim, The Pretty Reckless, Bleaches, Gorillaz, and Courtney Barnett

Behind Jerry Jeff Walker’s classic Mr. Bojangles lies the true story of a gentle drifter who danced through life’s hardships, leaving an unforgettable mark on music history.

On March 21, 1987, U2’s The Joshua Tree took the world—by storm, turning an Irish rock band into global superstars.

On the anniversary of his passing, a look back at the songs that made Kenny Rogers one of music’s most beloved storytellers.

How one Christmas classic’s legal victory echoes through the industry’s biggest music copyright cases.

Ditch the gimmicks for a soulful journey through Ireland’s musical heritage, featuring legendary anthems from The Dubliners to The Cranberries.

New music from Squeeze, The Warning, Depeche Mode, Pulp, and Metric

Chuck Berry’s 1956 anthem "Roll Over Beethoven" serves as the definitive rock 'n' roll manifesto, famously demanding that the classical masters make room for the electrified, jukebox-driven energy of a new generation.

An exploration in how the world’s most famous mathematical constant provides the rhythmic heartbeat for some of music's most evocative tracks.

Celebrating 125 years of "Mickle’s Folly," the Gravenhurst Opera House continues to resonate as the historic heart of Muskoka and the legendary birthplace of Canadian summer theatre

A defiant ritual of rhythm and distortion, this Friday the 13th playlist transforms ancient superstitions into a high-voltage soundtrack for the outcasts.

From primal screams to global anthems, we revisit the 1985 masterpiece that transformed Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith from synth-pop outsiders into the defining voices of a generation.

A tribute to Keith Emerson, the progressive rock titan who turned the synthesizer into a weapon of classical rebellion

A breakdown of Canada’s musical heavyweights, comparing the homegrown legacy of The Tragically Hip against the global dominance of Rush and Nickelback.

New music from Highly Suspect, Social Distortion, Avery Anna, Thirty Seconds to Mars and Yungblud

After conquering the charts with albums like The Real Thing and Angel Dust, Faith No More split in 1998, reunited for tours and a 2015 comeback album, then ultimately shelved plans again after cancelled 2021–22 dates

Blind since infancy, Toronto’s Jeff Healey rose to international fame with his lap-style guitar playing, chart-topping hit “Angel Eyes,” and a blues legacy that continues to inspire musicians worldwide

A rock legend’s defiant farewell: Sharon Osbourne reveals Ozzy knew his final concert could be his last

Less than a year after their reflective Rushmere, Mumford & Sons have delivered a defiant, banjo-fueled punch with Prizefighter,

A growing rebellion of legacy acts and alternative icons is pulling their catalogs from TikTok, sparking a high-stakes war over the value of a song in the age of the viral clip.

After nearly a decade of looking backward, U2 has blindsided the world with a raw, urgent surprise EP that ditches the stadium polish for something far more human

The Star Trek icon has announced a heavy metal album featuring 35 virtuosos, proving that for Captain Kirk, the final frontier is a wall of distortion

On the anniversary of his tragic passing in London, we look back at the life, the lyrics, and the lightning-bolt energy of AC/DC’s definitive wild child.

Following their years of producing sleek, arena-scale hits like "Learn to Fly" or "Best of You," there is an exciting, fly-on-the-wall intimacy in listening to these gritty, unrefined fragments of music.

New music from The Linda Lindas, Kyle Poulin, Young The Giant, Odd Marshall, and Arkells

From the pioneering waves of Marconi to the "Courtesy-Kars" of the 1950s, the story of radio is the story of human connection—a legacy reclaimed today by Hunters Bay Radio (CKAR-FM) as the resilient, community-powered heartbeat of Huntsville, Muskoka, and the Almaguin Highlands.

New music from Block, Papa Roach, Beck, Emm Gryner, and The Black Crowes

On a cold Sunday night in 1964, four young men from Liverpool didn’t just play songs on television. They quietly flipped the cultural switch in North America.

Springsteen delivers a raw, urgent response to a nation in turmoil with "Streets of Minneapolis," a powerful protest anthem that serves as the gritty, spiritual successor to his 1993 classic.

The lead vocalist of the 70's super group Three Dog Night passed away on Monday

A raw, whiskey-soaked dive into heartbreak that asks if you're ready to walk a mile in a wunderkind's bruised shoes—is it worth the airtime or just more clutter for the curb?

While history was made with Bad Bunny’s landmark win, the 2026 Grammys felt less like a tribute to timeless art and more like a carefully staged, gimmick-heavy broadcast

New Order was keen to move past post punk after the death of Ian Curtis and resulting break up of Joy Division

New music from Bruce Springsteen, Sugar, The Beaches, Matt Berninger and Black Stone Cherry

As violence concerns escalate, the legendary Queen guitarist warns that the "Land of the Free" may have become too high-risk for the band’s iconic stadium tours.

First images of the Beatles biopic reveal Paul Mescal as McCartney and Barry Keoghan as Starr, bringing the iconic band to life on screen.

Faithfull, who rose to fame in the 1960s, became a defining figure of the British Invasion, passed away in 2025

The legendary British rocker isn’t holding back. Sir Rod Stewart’s latest video takes aim at former U.S. President Donald Trump

The Canadian rockers that went from prairie obscurity to national stardom after a Rolling Stone cover launched them into the spotlight

From a child prodigy to a global icon, we trace the incredible evolution of Stevie Wonder and the creative "Superstition" that changed the sound of the seventies forever

New music from The Sheepdogs, Alice Merton, George Axon, Ariel Posen and Kirk Stephenson

Exploring the enduring legacy of Rush’s "Tom Sawyer," the quintessential anthem that redefined progressive rock

The Monkeys are back with "Opening Night," a reflective single that hints at exciting directions for the band’s future

From Toronto stages to Muskoka cottages, Marc Jordan’s life and music career are captured in a new biography that charts his journey as one of Canada’s most enduring songwriters

The East Bay’s iconic punk trio returns to their roots to headline the opening ceremonies of the NFL’s landmark 60th championship.

From high school hallways to international stages, Windsor’s power duo prepares to ignite Huntsville with their signature blend of gritty blues and modern alt-rock

New music from Seafret, Young the Giant, Lukas Nelson, Father John Misty, and The Black Crowes

Ten years after his passing, the legacy of the Eagles co-founder continues to define the landscape of American rock and roll.

In January, 1973, a mystery-wrapped masterpiece began its three-week reign atop the charts, defining a decade of pop music and celebrity intrigue.

On this day, Producer Phil Spector, the architect of the “Wall of Sound,” who reshaped popular music with timeless hits passed away in disgrace and a life sentence for murder

Seven years after her sudden passing, the legacy of The Cranberries' frontwoman continues to resonate

Loud, fearless and emotionally raw, Yungblud’s rise is reshaping rock music for a new generation — with praise from legends and whispers of unexpected collaborations.

After the holiday hush, the airwaves are back in full force with a high-octane mix of indie-punk, alt-rock, and synth-driven grooves.

The co-founder of the Grateful Dead and tireless architect of the "jam band" sound has passed away at 78

David Bowie’s childhood home in London is set to open to the public next year, offering a glimpse into the bedroom where the music icon first dreamed of stardom.

The new documentary celebrates the station’s groundbreaking role in alternative music and inspires community stations like Huntsville’s Hunters Bay Radio, where DJs still choose their own music.

81% of Canadians tune in to radio each week - a significant share of Canadians’ attention, whether during the morning commute, at work, or in the evenings

The song immortalizes Toronto Maple Leafs legend Bill Barilko, blending hockey history, tragedy, and Canadian cultural pride into one iconic rock anthem.

Ten years ago today, a legendary artist turned his own exit into a work of art.

Initially dismissed by the charts, Springsteen’s wordy 1973 debut proved that the "New Dylan" was actually a one-of-a-kind rock icon in the making.

From the visionary harmonies of Brian Wilson to the heavy metal thunder of Ozzy Osbourne, we celebrate the enduring legacies and unforgettable anthems of the trailblazers who shaped the soundtrack of our lives.

On January 3, 1987, the "Queen of Soul" shattered music’s glass ceiling, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer for every female artist who followed.

Amidst the cold studios and rising tensions of January 1969, the Fab Four managed to set aside their differences to record one last chart-topping legacy.

Aaron Hall recaps the best new songs of 2025

John Lennon turned a mundane newspaper story about potholes into one of The Beatles’ most surreal and iconic songs

A key creative force through The Cure’s most expansive years, Perry Bamonte leaves behind a legacy built on texture, restraint, and songs that still echo long after the lights go down.

Best known for Driving Home for Christmas but responsible for decades of blues-soaked hits, Chris Rea leaves behind a catalogue that soundtracked long drives, late nights, and quiet reflection.

A single blow in Boston exposed years of tension inside Jane’s Addiction leading to lawsuits by the members of the band

Five decades after the song first defined a generation of isolation, Pink Floyd offers a new visual dimension to its most enduring anthem.

New music from Longhorne Slim, Thomas Raggi, Chet Faker, Banners, and Guns N' Roses, as heard on The Countdown with Aaron Hall

How a Florida kid with a knack for melody helped build the Allman Brothers Band and carried its legacy through triumph and tragedy.

Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire," a breathless, chart-topping chronicle of 40 years of history, proved that every generation inherits chaos and cemented its status as a timeless historical anthem.

New music from All Time Low, South Arcade, Roxton, Plup, and The All-American Rejects, as heard on The Countdown with Aaron Hall

The B.C. band’s upcoming release, set for January 23, 2026, highlights decades of musical evolution and enduring creativity

Remembering Scott Weiland 10 years after his death, the dynamic frontman of Stone Temple Pilots whose talent and struggles left a lasting mark on rock music.

Neil Young's "Tonight's The Night 50th Anniversary Deluxe" expands the legend of the grief-stricken 1975 masterpiece .

New music from Hardy, Howl Owl Howl, Shinedown, Stephen Wilson Jr., and Kassandra Bois

Jimmy Cliff passed away on Monday at the age of 81

"Wheat Kings" remains a testament to the power of art, standing as one of the most important and resonant songs in the Canadian music canon.

New music from the Wild Rivers, Blondshell, The Neighbourhood and Joy Oladokun

On November 20, 1971, Isaac Hayes became the first Black artist to win an Oscar for Best Original Song as the “Theme From Shaft” topped the Billboard Hot 100 and redefined funk in film.

Draped in lilies and shadow, Nirvana's 1993 Unplugged session was a raw, vulnerable final performance that became one of rock's most iconic and haunting masterpieces.

New music from Melissa Etheridge, Black Pistol Fire, Kings of Leon, Bon Jovi and Hollerado

This curated playlist features moving tributes from The Trews, Mark Knopfler & Bryan Adams, Midnight Oil, and Vera Lynn, guiding listeners through remembrance, sacrifice, and hope.

New music from Bahamas, Orville Peck, Foo Fighters, 54-40 and a new local artist make the cut

The band is set to hit the stage on September 16th in Toronto

The Rolling Stones’ Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker) blends funky grooves and social commentary, proving the band’s depth beyond their biggest hits.

Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Crossfire captures the brilliance and heartbreak of a Blues legend whose life and career were tragically cut short.

A timeless ballad reborn through cinema, “Unchained Melody” proves that true emotion in music never fades — it only finds new voices.

“A spine-tingling playlist of 20 Halloween hits, from classic scares to modern eerie anthems, perfect for your haunted soundtrack.”

Released on this day on October 28th 1972, the album is thought to be the start of Wonder's classic period

New music from Sam Fender & Elton John, Jesse Welles, The Rural Alberta Advantage, Courtney Barnett and Men Without Hats

Legendary Canadian rock band Rush will hit the road in 2026 for their first tour since 2015

On October 23rd, Bob Dylan recorded the iconic "The Times They Are-A-Changing"

On this day in 2008, a homeless man found a wax head of Sir Paul McCartney in a train - his ticket to ride

Danny Michel’s new single “Northern Star” reflects on life’s journey with introspective lyrics and a rich, soulful sound, adding to a career full of imaginative, heartfelt music.

New music from CKY, Richard Ashcroft, Dropkick Murphys, Yellowcard and local artist Jan Olsson

On December 31, 2025, MTV will cease broadcasting music, marking the end of an era that transformed global youth culture

Arkansas-born singer-songwriter Jesse Welles captivates audiences with his soulful hit Pilgrim and a growing catalog of acclaimed songs.

Little Richard’s frantic vocals on “Good Golly, Miss Molly” helped solidify rock ’n’ roll’s wild energy — and connect its roots with the legends that came before.

Petty was the leader and frontman of the rock bands Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Mudcrutch and a member of the late 1980s supergroup the Traveling Wilburys.

AJR, Sloan, The Sheepdogs & More Lead This Week’s Playlist

A cold and a backstage quarrel at Liverpool’s Casbah Coffee Club set the stage for the Beatles’ legendary lineup and the future of modern music.

After decades of lost royalties over a Rolling Stones sample, Richard Ashcroft finally regained control of The Verve’s iconic hit.

Dire Staits turned a modest barroom tale into one of rock’s most enduring anthems.

A U.S. judge has dismissed Spencer Elden’s lawsuit claiming Nirvana’s Nevermind album cover constitutes child exploitation

New music from Colter Wall, Twenty One Pilots, Yukon Blonde, David Garfield, and The World On Loan

More than 40 years after its release, Rush’s “Tom Sawyer” remains a timeless classic, showcasing the band’s unmatched musicianship and enduring influence

From The Beatles’ “Come Together” to Pink Floyd’s “Money,” Abbey Road Studios has shaped nearly a century of music history

On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a collection of powerful songs from Indigenous artists offers reflection, resilience, and a reminder of the ongoing journey toward justice and healing.

New music from Jane's Party, Nine Inch Nails, Mountain Head, Aerosmith, & Sarah McLanchlan

A definitive journey through the songs that defined a country, and captured the soul of the Canadian landscape

Their debut single “My Cologne” drops October 31, leading into a fall tour and new album.

Cape Breton folk duo Madison Violet is returning to Huntsville for a farewell performance on October 26 at the Algonquin Theatre.

A 26 year old was charged with uttering threats

New music from Gorillaz, Stink Amos, Big Wreck, The Glorious Sons and Harm & Ease

A new documentary explores Ozzy’s life, career, and final days, revealing the man behind the “Prince of Darkness.”

the rock legends will reunite for two farewell concerts at London’s O2 Arena giving fans one last chance to experience their iconic sound live.

New music from Shaboozey, Molly Tuttle, Goldie Boutillier, Cheap Trick and The Struts

A newly uncovered note reveals the late icon’s eclectic musical tastes, and highlights the songs he valued most from his own catalogue.

New music from The Trews, Gin Blossoms, Bon Jovi, Stephen Wilson Jr., and local artist Patty Crozier

Pulp will mark the 30th anniversary of their landmark album *Different Class* with a special reissue on October 24, featuring the original tracks and their full 1995 Glastonbury headline performance.

A music icon celebrates his wedding with a unique, all-instrumental playlist.

Alabama Shakes have ended a decade-long silence with Another Life, their first new song since 2015, marking the start of a new chapter for the Grammy-winning band. Listen to it here.

New music from Hallow Souls, The Offspring, Bruce Springsteen, Headstones and local artist Dallas Clarke

This year’s inductees also include Jane Siberry, Gino Vannelli, and the McGarrigle sisters

Jimi Hendrix’s groundbreaking guitar work continues to influence artists across genres, keeping his music fresh and vital decades after his rise to fame.

Former Police members Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland are suing Sting for "millions in lost royalties," reportedly stemming from the lucrative earnings of their hit song, "Every Breath You Take."

Fans sang every word as Oasis brought 16 years of anticipation to life with a high-energy reunion show in Toronto.

From the urgency of Rise Against to the reflective folkpop of The Strumbellas, this week’s picks are the perfect soundtrack for saying goodbye to August and easing into what comes next.

Tom Morello launches a politically charged playlist, blending music and activism to protest Trump-era policies.

Florence Welch returns with Everybody Scream, a mystical 12-track album arriving October 31, featuring collaborations with Aaron Dessner, Mitski, and Mark Bowen.

Radiohead’s new live album, *Hail to the Thief (Live Recordings 2003-2009)*, captures the band in peak form.

Rock pioneers Ann and Nancy Wilson are keeping Heart alive after 50 years, overcoming health setbacks and stolen instruments while continuing to tour and inspire a new generation of fans.

New music from Francis Baptiste, Bryan Adams, The Planet Smashers, Three Days Grace and Our Lady Peace (well sort of)

A new biopic is reportedly in the works to tell the story of Sinéad O'Connor, focusing on her journey from a difficult youth to an outspoken global music icon.

Miles Davis's revolutionary 1959 album Kind of Blue used a modal approach to create a masterpiece of jazz, featuring an all-star lineup and influencing countless musicians across genres.

Canadian alt-rock duo Mountain Head hits Canvas Brewing in Huntsville this Friday. Expect psychedelic grooves, hits like We Stole Your Head, and a high-energy, mind-bending live show.

An ordinary day on the Chicago River turned into an infamous, messy disaster for the Dave Matthews Band, cementing "poopgate" as a bizarre footnote in rock history.

Featuring new music from The Verve Pipe, Sons of Legion, Rob Thomas Pulp, and Finger Eleven

“Crossfire” marked Stevie Ray Vaughan’s powerful comeback—blending modern blues with personal redemption in one of his most defining and successful songs.

From punk-rock roots and a challenging hiatus to a powerful comeback and a Hollywood parallel, The Headstones' story is one an of enduring Canadian rock band.

New releases from Yungblud, Tyler Childers, Robert Plant, Sheryl Crow and Jon Batiste

On this day 22 years ago, half a million fans packed a Toronto airfield for the historic SARS benefit concert headlined by the Rolling Stones, AC/DC, and Rush.

The first modern benefit concert took place on August 1st 1971 proving music could do more than entertain

Survivor's Eye of the Tiger wasn’t just a chart-topping hit—it became a timeless anthem of grit, thanks to a call from Sylvester Stallone and a perfect match with Rocky III.

Big Sugar’s All Hell for a Basement turns a line from author Rudyard Kipling into a gritty anthem for Canadians chasing work and survival out West.

ZZ Top’s longtime bassist Dusty Hill died on this day at 72, leaving behind a legacy of gritty blues-rock and a band facing its next chapter.

Brand new music from William Prince, The Goo Goo Dols, On In The Chamber, The Black Keys, and The Last Dinner Party

From Don McLean to Roberta Flack to the Fugees, the evolution of an iconic song

A tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away at 75, celebrating his iconic career, his recent farewell concert, and five of his greatest songs.

On July 23rd, we mark 14 years since the brilliant Amy Winehouse joined the "27 Club," leaving behind an undeniable musical legacy tragically cut short by her battle with addiction.

Jeff Buckley’s life was cut short at 30 when he drowned in the Wolf River while working on his second album, leaving behind a legacy defined by brilliance and loss.

New music from Miranda Lambert & Chris Stapleton, Van Morrison, Neil Young, Cast and The Lumineers!

Some of today’s most famous bands got their names by paying tribute to songs that inspired them, linking their identity to music history.

A rare pink 1956 Cadillac once owned by Elvis Presley is set to hit the auction block this fall, drawing interest from collectors worldwide.

Pearl Jam and drummer Matt Cameron part ways amicably after nearly three decades, concluding an iconic chapter in rock history.

The 80's are back with new music from Men Without Hats, Stephen Bishop and more

Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 album marked a bold new chapter, transforming the band into a pop-rock powerhouse and setting the stage for one of music’s most iconic lineups.

Velvet Sundown has revealed they're a fully AI-generated band, sparking a wave of backlash and debate over authenticity, artistry, and the future of music.

From the wailing blues of the Delta to the shredding solos of stadium rock, this is the story of the guitar heroes who shaped music history, one legendary riff at a time.

The Foo Fighters' "Today's Song" marks their 30th anniversary, a poignant reflection on their enduring rock legacy, personal triumphs, and the profound, lasting impact of Taylor Hawkins' absence.

New Music Monday on *The Countdown* highlights fresh tracks from Yukon Blonde, Hayden, Foo Fighters, Caamp, and Jeffrey Hawkins that are worth adding to your playlist this week.

Prince’s *Purple Rain* fused rock, funk, and soul into a groundbreaking album that redefined pop music and cultural expression in the 1980s.

Robbie Robertson, the Toronto-born guitarist and songwriter behind The Band, helped shape the sound of modern rock with a mix of Canadian roots and Southern soul.

Oasis Live '25 marks the long-awaited reunion of the iconic Britpop band, as brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher put their differences aside for a sold-out global tour.

Influential musicians like Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain, and Amy Winehouse all died at the age of 27, leaving behind immense legacies and unanswered questions.

Sloan: 4 members, 3 decades, one unique Canadian Band

Ten timeless tracks that capture the heart of Canada’s musical identity, from coast to coast and across generations.

Billy Idol’s wild past catches up with him as a surprise DNA test reveals a long-lost son from his hard-living heyday.

Did Serena ever busk in downtown Huntsville?

A deep dive into Bob Dylan’s complicated relationships with fellow folk artists and his fierce guard over musical authenticity.

On this day in 2009, the world lost Michael Jackson—an icon whose music, moves, and impact on pop culture remain unmatched.

From Led Zeppelin to Ed Sheeran, some of music’s biggest names have faced courtroom battles over where influence ends and plagiarism begins.

From soul-searching ballads to gritty rock anthems, this week’s picks dive into love, regret, and the weight of hard choices.

Classic Rock tracks that still Oown the season

A powerful mix of voices and visions, this Indigenous playlist showcases artists blending tradition, activism, and genre-defying sound.

On June 18, 1977, Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” hit No. 1—the same day the LP format that made Rumours possible was introduced 29 years earlier.

Pulp returns with More, their first album in over two decades—a sharp, reflective record that proves they’ve still got something to say.

Releases from the Lumineers, Ax & the Hatchetmen, Big Sugar, Kathleen Edwards and Born Ruffians

A playlist that's thoughtful, warm and a little rugged - just like Dad!

Several of David Bowie's most acclaimed albums gained even more recognition decades after their release, as new generations of listeners and critics rediscovered their influence and innovation.

Dr. John was a master of musical alchemy, turning New Orleans street sounds into something timeless and entirely his own.

Once hailed as a revolutionary force in music, Phil Spector’s legacy was overshadowed by his 2003 arrest and eventual conviction for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson.

New releases from Joe Bonamassa, Jamie Oppenheimer & Gina Horswood, Hinder, AMH, & Great Lake Swimmers

The new album "Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years" will be released later this summer

The band says they want to evolve, but stay true to their roots

The existence of a daughter is a well guarded secret

Even the greatest musicians had to keep an eye open for up & coming acts

New releases from Dan Mangan, Ezra Furman, Pearl Jam, Sublime, and The Black Keys!

The disorder that affects brain function and motor skills

It's a line up that blends big names, comedy icons and community involvement

The Godfather of Punk is proving that retirement is for the boring

Dead & Company will host The Bay area's biggest festival this year

Jim Morrison’s long-lost cemetery sculpture resurfaces after nearly four decades.