It’s almost that time again. Every year around the middle of summer, music fans from all over Canada and beyond flock to Montreal for Osheaga – the country’s largest music and arts fest. The 2024 edition is set to be the biggest yet, with over 90 international artists taking the festival’s five stages in Parc Jean-Drapeau from August 2nd to August 4th.
Whether you’re a dedicated festival-goer or a curious first-timer, our guide to ten standout artists to catch this year will ensure you make the most out of your festival experience. From buzzy Montreal up-and-comers to today’s biggest stars, here are 10 acts not to miss at Osheaga 2024.
Chappell Roan
August 3 – Bell River Stage
If you’ve been online (or turned on the radio) this summer, you’ll know that Chappell Roan is “your favourite artist’s favourite artist.” Her meteoric rise may seem like an overnight success, but her lore reveals she’s been at it for a decade – getting dropped by a major label and moving back in with her parents in Missouri before finally striking a global chord. The queer pop singer-songwriter may not have been named headliner when Osheaga announced the festival lineup earlier this year, but if the crowds she drew at Gov Ball and Bonnaroo are any indication, her show will be one of the main events.
Two Door Cinema Club
August 2 – Bell River Stage
The “Indie Sleaze” music resurgence keeps going strong, making Irish indie rockers Two Door Cinema Club a popular choice for both millennials who witnessed their initial success over a decade ago, and younger audiences discovering their upbeat alternative pop for the first time. Danceable hits like “What You Know” have become sunny festival anthems, as well as synonymous with the nostalgic late 2000s/early 2010s music and fashion era.
NO WAVES
August 3 – Green Stage
Don’t let their age fool you, the impressive young musicians that form Montreal’s nu-punk band NO WAVES have been performing and making a name for themselves in the local scene since their early teens in 2017. The hard work has clearly paid off – earning them the cover of Cult MTL’s July issue, and their first Osheaga performance at this year’s festival. Catch them before the world knows their name!
Reneé Rapp
August 3 – Bell River Stage
Known for her acting roles in Mean Girls (on Broadway and in film) and HBO’s The Sex Lives of College Girls, Reneé Rapp has established herself as a burgeoning popstar and a mainstay on every gay girl summer playlist. Her powerful vocals and relatable songwriting, paired with her filterless and memeable live appearances, promise an entertaining concert to add to your festival itinerary.
Amyl and the Sniffers
August 4 – belairdirect Valley Stage
An Amyl and the Sniffers show is not one you’re soon to forget. Frontwoman Amy Taylor’s electrifying energy appears to only grow more explosive as she thrashes across the stage, leading the Australian four-piece through catchy punk rock bangers. Expect a wild, unfiltered experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
SZA
August 4 – Bell River Stage
Grammy award-winning R&B sensation SZA will light up the Osheaga stage on the last day of the fest with her smooth, soulful voice and deeply personal lyrics. With viral hits like “Kill Bill” and a universally acclaimed debut album, Ctrl, SZA is a must-see at this year’s festival. The American singer-songwriter is known for delivering emotional live performances – connecting with audiences through her honest and raw storytelling.
Tyla
August 4 – belairdirect Valley Stage
South African sensation Tyla (one of our picks for RAC’s Most Anticipated Albums of 2024) will bring her unique blend of amapiano pop-R&B to the Montreal festival grounds for the first time this year. Her smash hit “Water” – and the mesmerizing dance that accompanies it – went viral on TikTok last year and is still stuck in our heads. Catch it live and see if you can follow along!
CRi
August 3 – Coca-Cola Island Stage
Montreal electronic artist and producer CRi is no stranger to the Osheaga stage, or really any major local festival, with performances at the Montreal Jazz Festival, Igloofest, and Piknic Électronik already under his belt. Having collaborated with a number of Quebec’s biggest pop acts including Charlotte Cardin, Half Moon Run, and Milk & Bone, who knows who may join him on stage (purely speculating – RAC cannot be held accountable for starting any rumours)!
Melanie Martinez
August 2 – Coors Light Mountain Stage
Melanie Martinez’s theatrical performances, concept-driven albums, and alter ego “Cry Baby” have set her apart as a unique artist in the pop landscape ever since her 2012 appearance on The Voice. Known for her Tumblr-era roots and hits like “Dollhouse” and “Pity Party,” Melanie Martinez shows always promise a visual and auditory spectacle.
Bladee
August 2 – Green Stage
Swedish artist Bladee’s genre-defying music blends cloud rap, hyperpop, and alternative R&B, creating a distinctive new style and earning him a loyal fanbase on and offline. The rapper/singer/producer/designer is also a key member of the highly aesthetic Drain Gang collective, and creative director for Sadboys Gear, Yung Lean’s clothing line. Expect an immersive, dark, and dreamy vibe.
Be sure to check out our other music guides and lists: Summer 2024 Guide: Top 8 Montreal Music Festivals and Top 10 New Songs for Your Summer 2024 Road Trip Playlist.
Written by Maryse Bernard
Illustration by Holly Li
