Departure Festival brought Caribbean culture to the forefront of Toronto this week, with talented artists taking over the city to perform, participate in panels, and attend industry events. The festival featured soca and reggae artists alongside Canadian talent from across the country, with Now Toronto serving as the official media partner.
The opening night gala took place at Lula Lounge and was hosted by Dr. Jay, known as the De Soca Prince of Toronto. Artists featured at the festival included Azizi Clarke, Nikita, Tionne Hernandez, and Sivers, who appeared on the red carpet for the opening night.
Dr. Jay expressed enthusiasm for the festival's impact on the music industry. "As a DJ, I realize that so many people get showcased through Departure, and I just love to see it," he told Now Toronto. "So many things are happening for the culture. I want to big up Departure for that," he continued.
The Barbadian contingent at the festival celebrated the opportunity to showcase their talent in Toronto. Artist Azizi Clarke told Now Toronto: "We get a chance to showcase our talent here in Toronto, and it's gonna be amazing. I'm extremely appreciative of this opportunity, and I can't wait to see the Barbados kill it out there today". Clarke added that music has been central to her life since childhood: "I've been singing from the time I could speak, coming out the womb. Yes, my music is everything, and I want to take it to the world".
Sivers highlighted the festival's role in bridging Caribbean and Canadian communities. "You know, it's all about the fans, all the people that support departure and the people that support Barbados," Sivers said, describing himself as "just a poet from a small island". He added: "It just represents union, the connection between the Caribbean, especially Barbados, with Canada. I'm just really excited to be a part of the process".
Tionne Hernandez emphasised the significance of sharing Caribbean sounds with a wider audience. "I am so happy to be able to share my talent with the wider world, because usually it's just within the Caribbean," Hernandez told Now Toronto.
