2025 JUNO BLOCK PARTY: DAY 1
VANCOUVER ART GALLERY, VANCOUVER
The first night of the Juno Block Party set the tone for an electrifying weekend, bringing together a stellar lineup of Canadian artists and Juno Nominees, in the heart of Vancouver. With performances by Tia Wood, Loony, Raman Bains, and Wild Rivers, the night was a testament to the diversity and depth of Canada’s music scene.
Tia Wood opened the evening with a performance that was as moving as it was powerful. Hailing from the Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Alberta, she blends her indigenous roots with R&B influences, captivating the crowd with her ethereal vocals and deep storytelling. Her vocals carried an emotional weight that resonated throughout the audience, making for a truly compelling start to the night.
Loony took the stage next, bringing her signature mix of neo-soul and R&B. Her silky vocals mixed with her enthusiastic stage presence had the crowd moving to the beat, with tracks shining in the live setting. The richness of her voice, paired with her creative storytelling, created an intimate yet electric atmosphere that had fans completely locked in.
Raman Bains brought an entirely different energy, fusing Punjabi music with contemporary pop and hip-hop elements. His set was vibrant, with pulsating beats and infectious rhythms that had the crowd dancing. He was joined on the stage by other Desi artists and even treated the crowd to some new unreleased music. Raman Bains showcased his ability to seamlessly blend cultures, proving why he’s an artist to watch in the global Desi music scene.
Indie folk band Wild Rivers closed out the night with a performance that was both uplifting and deeply emotive. Pulling in the biggest crowd of the night, Wild Rivers did not disappoint. Their harmonies were flawless and had the audience singing along in unison. Their set was a perfect blend of nostalgia and warmth, making for a fitting end to an unforgettable first day.
Day 1 of the Juno Block Party was a stunning showcase of the many sounds shaping Canadian music today. From Tia Wood’s soul-stirring vocals to Wild Rivers’ indie charm, the night highlighted the power of diverse storytelling through music. If this was just the beginning, the rest of the weekend promises even more unforgettable moments.