SOULFEST MONTREAL: New music festival

Montreal now has its own Soul music festival.

The first edition of SOULFEST MONTREAL kicked off Thursday, July 11, and runs until Sunday.

“SOULFEST MONTREAL is the festival that really brings the best of soul music here in Montreal, but internationally as well,” said Anaelle Grace, marketing and artistic director for the festival.

The festival’s programming includes both indoor and outdoor performances.

Outdoor shows will take place at Square Saint James in downtown Montreal (Sainte-Catherine Street West, between Saint-Alexandre and City Councillors streets). It’ll be transformed for the occasion into an open-air dance floor set against the backdrop of the St-James Church, which will be illuminated for the duration of the festival. ​

Indoor shows are set for Le Balcon, which can be found inside of St-James Church.

The festival will celebrate Soul, Motown, R&B, Gospel and Funk music.

“It’s what brings people together; it’s really a vibe. It’s more than just music; it’s a connection, an emotion, a lifestyle,” said Grace.

In addition to local talent being showcased, the festival will also feature performances from Soul music icons like Kim Richardson and Freddie James, among others. Surprise performances are also in store.

Slim Williams took the stage for all four nights of the festival. On Friday, Dutch Robinson joined him as a special guest.

For Williams, being at the festival is a full circle moment.

“I’ve been with the Balcon since the beginning. You know, I was playing with them in the old Balcon when there was nobody there, and then we built it up. So I’m honoured to be performing for the first time at the Soul Fest,” he said.

While enjoying the music, festival-goers can also enjoy a SoulFood-themed culinary menu.

“Come out, you must come out and see these amazing artists and see what Montreal has to give, not only to Quebec, not only to Canada, but to the world. You know, they have to feel this,” said Williams.

For more, visit soulfestmtl.com