Toronto’s music lovers are in for a treat this week as Khalid is set to headline a free live concert in the heart of the city as part of the 30th annual NXNE (North by Northeast) Music Festival. The Grammy-nominated R&B sensation will take over Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas Square) on Wednesday, June 12, in what is being called one of the most anticipated live performances of the summer. This special showcase is part of Billboard Canada’s new initiative, “The Stage,” celebrating NXNE’s milestone anniversary and the power of live music.
Khalid’s Toronto Performance: What You Need to Know
Khalid is no stranger to delivering chart-topping hits and emotional performances, and Toronto will witness it all live and for free. With tracks like “Talk,” “Location,” “Better,” and his latest releases gaining massive traction, the evening is set to be a powerful mix of nostalgia and fresh sounds.
The event does not require tickets, but it is first come, first served, and fans are encouraged to arrive early due to crowd limitations. It’s a rare chance to see Khalid in such an up-close and intimate setting, especially after performing at larger venues in the past.
This performance will also be livestreamed for fans across Canada, making it accessible even to those who can’t make it to downtown Toronto. Whether in the square or watching from home, Khalid’s set promises a memorable experience.
Daniel Caesar Joins the NXNE Lineup
While Khalid will bring the energy to Sankofa Square, Daniel Caesar will return to his roots at The Mod Club (formerly known as the Axis Club) on Friday, June 14. His intimate show will be a full-circle moment, as it marks his return to the same venue that helped launch his career during a past NXNE appearance.
Caesar’s soulful performances and fan-favorite songs like “Best Part,” “Get You,” and “Always” are expected to draw emotional responses from a packed venue. Access to this special concert was limited and available only through wristband registration, which closed earlier this month.
NXNE 2025: A Festival with Purpose and Power
This year’s NXNE is more than just concerts. Running from June 11 to 15, the festival will host over 300 artists across 25+ venues, from bars and clubs to pop-up stages and panels.
What’s new and exciting this year:
- Billboard Canada’s “The Stage” at Sankofa Square
- Free daily concerts featuring high-profile and emerging acts
- Panel discussions on music, culture, and innovation
- Festival wristbands offering access to club shows citywide
- VIP upgrades with perks like front-row access and exclusive lounges
NXNE has always aimed to bridge the gap between global stars and rising talents. This year’s lineup reflects that mission, and Khalid and Daniel Caesar are perfect examples—artists who’ve topped international charts while staying true to their creative roots.
Khalid’s Journey to Toronto’s Stage
Born in Georgia and raised in El Paso, Khalid Donnel Robinson rose to fame with his debut single “Location” in 2016. His unique blend of R&B, pop, and soul quickly made him a household name, with his debut album American Teen earning critical acclaim.
Khalid has collaborated with music heavyweights including Billie Eilish, Halsey, Ed Sheeran, and Normani, and he has a special connection to Canadian music as well. His past collaborations with Canadian artists like Alessia Cara and Tate McRae have performed exceptionally well, making this Toronto performance feel like a homecoming of sorts.
Fans can also expect songs from his latest album, which delves deeper into themes of self-reflection, love, and personal growth. With his smooth vocals and magnetic stage presence, Khalid brings vulnerability and power to every performance.
Daniel Caesar: Homegrown Soul
Daniel Caesar, a Toronto native, has quietly become one of the defining voices of modern soul. After independently releasing his breakthrough album Freudian, he gained widespread recognition with hits like “Japanese Denim” and “Blessed.”
His collaboration with H.E.R. on “Best Part” earned him a Grammy Award, and his influence continues to grow with each project. His 2023 release, Never Enough, showed a more experimental and personal side to his artistry, earning praise for its boldness and emotional depth.
His NXNE set is expected to be intimate, reflective, and heartfelt—offering fans a rare chance to connect with Caesar in a venue that launched his journey almost a decade ago.
Read Also-Nintendo Switch Pre Orders: The Latest Buzz on the Switch 2 Launch
Festival Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss
Beyond Khalid and Caesar, NXNE 2025 is stacked with programming to keep festival-goers entertained and inspired.
- Emerging artist showcases throughout Queen Street West, Parkdale, and Kensington Market
- Afternoon and evening panel talks with music executives, creatives, and artists
- Exclusive pop-up performances at secret locations announced via the NXNE app
- Interactive installations and community art experiences
- Food trucks, beer gardens, and brand activations
NXNE isn’t just about big names—it’s also about discovering your next favorite artist, stumbling into a set that changes your playlist, and experiencing Toronto’s music culture at its loudest and most vibrant.
Tips for Making the Most of NXNE
To maximize your NXNE adventure, here are some helpful tips:
- Download the NXNE mobile app for real-time updates, venue maps, and surprise set alerts
- Plan your evening ahead using the lineup schedule so you don’t miss major acts
- Bring ID, sunscreen, and cash, especially for club shows and vendors
- Use public transit—downtown traffic and parking will be intense
- Engage with the community—follow hashtags and join fan meetups at the square
Wrapping Up: A Weekend of Music You Won’t Forget
From Khalid’s free outdoor concert at Sankofa Square to Daniel Caesar’s soul-soaked set at The Mod Club, NXNE 2025 is delivering an unforgettable weekend for music fans in Toronto and beyond. It’s a rare moment when two of R&B’s brightest stars cross paths in one city within the same week—and you get to be part of it.
So bring your friends, your energy, and your love for great music. Whether you’re swaying to “Talk” under the Toronto sky or soaking in Caesar’s croons from the front row, this is the kind of festival experience you’ll talk about for years.
RSVP to the vibes, and don’t be late—because this isn’t just a show. It’s Khalid in Toronto, and it’s going to be epic.
Share this blog, tag your concert buddy, and start prepping your playlist for an unforgettable NXNE!