Why Sad Bangers Are Dominating Summer 2025 🥺

From viral edits to festival anthems,

One thing is clear this summer: sad bangers are winning. Artists like Fred again.., Peggy Gou, and even Charli XCX are blending emotional lyrics with club-ready production — and fans are feeling it. These are songs that make you dance and overthink.

The rise of this sound isn’t new,

But 2025 has taken it up a level. Whether it's post-breakup healing on the dancefloor or feeling isolated in a crowd, people are connecting to music that mirrors their emotional complexity. UK garage, deep house, and vocal-driven electronic tracks are all part of the wave.

This shift is inspiring producers worldwide to get more personal with their sound design. You can hear it in tracks like “Lonesome” by DJ FTP and Martina Bosede — a late-night garage-influenced slow burn that wraps vulnerability in groove. It's made for those 2AM moments when you’re alone in your feels, but still moving.

For DJs, you can grab the official Lonesome DJ Pack here.
For full background and credits, read the official press release.

Expect more of these hybrid pop/club songs to hit your feed as artists embrace duality. Soft yet strong, sad yet euphoric. Welcome to the summer of the emotional dancefloor.

PRESS RELEASE: FTP and Martina Bosede Release Hypnotic New Single “Lonesome”

July 17, 2025 – Toronto, ON

Nigerian DJ, artist, and TV host Martina Bosede returns today with Lonesome, a lush new single created in collaboration with acclaimed Canadian DJ and producer, DJ FTP (For The People). Released on all streaming platforms, Lonesome blends hypnotic house rhythms with airy, sensual vocals, capturing the bittersweet feeling of loneliness — whether in a crowded room or within a relationship — all wrapped in an irresistible summer vibe.

Built on pulsing beats, shuffling percussion, and minimal synth textures, Lonesome is a late-night slow burn that invites listeners into a space where vulnerability meets groove. Martina's signature featherlight delivery floats effortlessly over DJ FTP's crisp, finely tuned production, creating an intimate, hypnotic soundscape perfect for introspective moments and hazy dancefloors alike.

"Lonesome is about that feeling when you're dancing, but somewhere else in your head — vulnerable, yet still moving," says Martina.

Martina Bosede is a dynamic international DJ, artist, and TV host based in Toronto, known for seamlessly blending house rhythms with emotive vocals. She has performed at iconic venues and events across the UK, Ireland, Nigeria, and Canada, including residencies at Ministry of Sound and Scala.

Toronto-based DJ FTP brings over a decade of experience to the collaboration, known for his versatile open-format sets at premier Worldwide venues such as Scotiabank Arena, Havana Club, and The El Mocambo.

Listen to Lonesome on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

For interviews or more info, contact ftp@djftp.ca.

Why Everyone’s Obsessed with UK Garage Again

If you’ve been out lately, you’ve probably noticed: UK Garage is everywhere again.

From Toronto to Berlin, DJs are slipping shuffling 2-step drums, deep basslines, and airy vocals into their late-night sets. Once a strictly underground UK sound, UKG has gone global — and in 2025, it’s evolving into something more emotional, more hypnotic, and more addictive than ever.

So why the sudden resurgence?

One reason is mood. In a time when people want to feel something on the dancefloor, UKG hits that perfect balance between movement and emotion. It’s upbeat, but introspective. You can dance, but you can also think. And that’s exactly the energy listeners are craving.

Tracks like Lonesome by Martina Bosede & DJ FTP show how the new wave of UK garage blends soulful vocals with minimal production — giving that signature “alone in the club” vibe without losing the groove. It’s house-adjacent, but with a rawer, more vulnerable edge.

Whether you're a longtime fan of the genre or just discovering it through artists like Conducta, Sammy Virji, or Interplanetary Criminal, UK garage remains one of the most emotionally rich and sonically exciting sounds out.

🎧 Hear what we mean — listen to Lonesome
📄 Full press release

The History of Hip-Hop in Toronto

Toronto's hip-hop scene has a rich history, dating back to the early 1980s. Some of the early pioneers of Toronto hip-hop include Maestro Fresh Wes, Michie Mee, and Ghetto Concept.

In the early 1990s, Toronto's hip-hop scene began to gain international attention, thanks to artists like Kardinal Offishall and Choclair. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Toronto became a major hub for hip-hop music, with the rise of artists like Drake, The Weeknd, and Tory Lanez.

Today, Toronto's hip-hop scene is more vibrant than ever. There are a number of talented artists making music in the city, and Toronto is home to a number of successful hip-hop labels and businesses.

Here is a brief timeline of some of the key moments in the history of hip-hop in Toronto!

• 1981: Maestro Fresh Wes releases "Let Your Backbone Slide," one of the first hip-hop songs to be recorded in Canada. Music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ

• 1983: Michie Mee releases "If You Don't Know," the first rap song by a Canadian woman to be played on national radio.

• 1989: Ghetto Concept releases "Certified," the first Canadian rap album to be certified gold.

• 1991: Toronto Hip Hop Pioneer, Kardinal Offishall releases "Naughty Dread," his debut single!

• 1993: Choclair releases "What It Be Like," his breakthrough single.

• 2011: The Weeknd releases "House of Balloons," his debut mixtape.

• 2012: Drake releases "Take Care," his second studio album, which wins a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album.

• 2015: The Weeknd releases "Beauty Behind the Madness," his second studio album, which is nominated for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

• 2016: Tory Lanez releases "I Told You," his debut studio album, which is certified platinum in Canada and the United States.

These are just a few of the many milestones in the history of hip-hop in Toronto. The city's hip-hop scene has been influential on the global stage, and it continues to produce talented artists and businesses.

To learn more about the history of hip-hop in Toronto and the city's current hip-hop scene, visit DJFTP.ca.

Toronto's Hottest Hip-Hop Artists

Toronto Rapper Nav at the Club

Toronto is home to a number of talented hip-hop artists, and many of them have gone on to achieve international success. Here are a few of the hottest hip-hop artists from Toronto:

Drake:

Drake is one of the most successful hip-hop artists of all time. He's won numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards. Drake is known for his catchy melodies, smooth flow, and ability to appeal to a wide audience. With the release of his new album “For All The Dogs” Drake has once again evolved catering his sound to a younger generation with help from industry heavy hitters Yeat, Lil Yachty and BNYX

The Weeknd:

The Weeknd is another successful hip-hop artist from Toronto. He's known for his dark and atmospheric music. The Weeknd's music has been featured in a number of films and television shows, and he's won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards.

Tory Lanez:

Tory Lanez is a versatile artist who can rap and sing. He's also known for his collaborations with other artists like Kehlani, Meek Mill, and Jack Harlow . Tory Lanez has released a number of successful albums, and he's won numerous awards, including a BET Award and a Juno Award.

Nav:

Nav is a superstar artist from Rexdale, Toronto. He's known for his melodic beats and catchy hooks. Nav has released a number of successful singles, and he's collaborated with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Lil Baby and Travis Scott.

Pressa:

Pressa is a young rapper who's making a name for himself with his Toronto drill street music. Drill music is a subgenre of hip-hop that's characterized by its dark and violent lyrics. Pressa has released a number of successful singles, and he's collaborated with some of the biggest names in hip hop music, such as Coi Leray and Lil Uzi Vert.

These are just a few of the many talented hip-hop artists from Toronto. The city's hip-hop scene is vibrant and diverse, and there's something for everyone. So be sure to check out some of these artists and discover new music to love.

To learn more about Toronto's hip-hop scene and find out about new releases, visit DJFTP.ca.

Toronto's Best Hip-Hop Clubs

Toronto is home to a vibrant and diverse hip-hop scene, and there are plenty of great clubs where you can catch a show or dance the night away. Here are a few of the best:

Lost and Found:

 Lost is one of the most popular hip-hop clubs in Toronto, and it's known for its energetic Saturday and Monday night parties that you never know who will show up to!

Century: 

Century is another popular hip-hop club, and it's known for its upscale vibe and diverse music selection including Hip Hop, Drill, Latin, Afrobeats and House.

Early Mercy: 

Early Mercy is an after hours style bar on King West and on Saturdays becomes one of the most popular parties in the city. With its patio in the summer and 4AM last call most night, the best place to extend your night has to be Early Mercy.

Club Lux:

 Club Lux is a dancehall and hip hop club in the downtown area, and it's known for its rowdy atmosphere, large crowds and impeccable selection of dancehall and hip hop music

Apt 200:

 Apt 200 is a smaller hip-hop bar with a more intimate vibe. It's a great place to catch a show by up-and-coming DJs and hear everything from throwbacks to new bangers!

If you're looking for a great place to catch a hip-hop show or dance the night away in Toronto, be sure to check out one of these clubs. You won't be disappointed!

To learn more about Toronto's hip-hop scene and find out about upcoming events, visit DJFTP.ca.

Drake Type Beats: The Secret to Creating Your Canadian Rap Hit!

What are Drake type beats?

Drake type beats are instrumental beats that are similar in style to the beats used in Drake's songs. These beats are typically characterized by their catchy melodies, smooth grooves, and hard-hitting drums.

Why are Drake type beats so popular?

Drake is one of the most popular and successful rappers in the world, and his beats are some of the most sought-after in the industry. His beats are known for their ability to create hits, and many artists have used Drake type beats to create their own successful songs.

How to create a hit song with a Drake type beat

If you're looking to create a hit song with a Drake type beat, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you need to make sure that the beat is catchy and memorable. Second, the beat should be appropriate for your song's lyrics and style. Third, the beat should be produced at a high quality.

Once you have a good Drake type beat, you need to write lyrics that are catchy and memorable. The lyrics should also be appropriate for the beat's style. Once you have written your lyrics, you need to record your song and mix and master it to a high quality.

Where to find Drake type beats

There are many places where you can find Drake type beats. You can search for beats online, or you can contact a producer directly. If you are looking for high-quality Drake type beats, you should check out FTP Beat Store at djftp.ca/drake-type-beats.

FTP Beat Store has a wide selection of Drake type beats to choose from, and all of their beats are produced at a high quality.

Afrobeats: The Hottest New Sound in Music

What is afrobeats?

Afrobeats is a genre of music that originated in West Africa. It is a fusion of African music genres, such as highlife and fuji, with Western music genres, such as hip hop and R&B. Afrobeats has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it is now one of the hottest new sounds in music. Another popular sound coming from Africa is “Amapiano” which in many cases has fused with afrobeats on songs like UNAVAILABLE by Davido and Monalisa by Lojay, Sarz and Chris Brown.

Why is afrobeats so popular?

Afrobeats music is popular for many reasons. It is characterized by its catchy melodies, infectious rhythms, and danceable beats. Afrobeats songs are also often upbeat and positive, which makes them appealing to a wide range of listeners.

Who are some popular afrobeats artists?

Some of the most popular afrobeats artists include Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Tems. These artists have released some of the biggest afrobeats hits of recent years, such as "Essence" by Wizkid featuring Tems, "Fall" by Davido, and "Ye" by Burna Boy.

Where can I find the hottest Toronto afrobeats beats?

There are many places where you can find afrobeats beats. You can search for beats online, or you can contact a producer directly.

If you are looking for high-quality afrobeats beats, you should check out FTP Beat Store at djftp.ca/afrobeats FTP Beat Store has a wide selection of afrobeats beats to choose from, and all of their beats are produced at a high quality.

Radio-Ready Hip Hop Beats: Get Your Music on the Radio!

If you want to get your Canadian hip hop music on the radio, you need to have radio-ready beats. Radio-ready beats are beats that are produced specifically for radio play. They are typically well-mixed and mastered, and they have a catchy and memorable melody. Popular Radio Hip Hop artists are Drake, Tory Lanez and Nav.

How can i make my rap songs radio ready?

There are a few things you can do to make sure that your beats are radio-ready. First, you should make sure that your beats are mixed and mastered professionally. Second, you should make sure that your beats are well-produced and have a catchy melody. Third, you should make sure that your beats are appropriate for the radio format.

What else makes a song radio ready?

Here are some tips for making your beats radio-ready:

• Use high-quality samples and instruments.

• Make sure your beats are well-mixed and mastered.

• Use a catchy and memorable melody.

• Avoid using explicit lyrics or samples.

• Keep your beats under four minutes long.

• Make sure your beats are appropriate for the Canadian radio format.

Who can i contact to promote my song?

Once you have created radio-ready beats, you need to promote them to Canadian radio stations. You can do this by sending them demos of your songs or by contacting them directly. You can also promote your beats to Canadian DJs and other music professionals, such as DJ FTP

If you have high-quality radio-ready beats, you will be more likely to get your music on Canadian radio!

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WHERE CAN I FIND Radio Ready Hip Hop Beats?

There are many places where you can find hip hop beats online. You can search for beats online, or you can contact a producer directly.

If you are looking for high-quality radio ready hip-hop beats, you should check out FTP Beat Store at djftp.ca/beats

FTP Beat Store has a wide selection of hip hop, drill, dancehall and afrobeats beats to choose from, and all of their beats are produced at a high quality.

Hitmaka Type Beats: The Key to Creating Banger Hits

What are Hitmaka type beats?

Hitmaka type beats are instrumental beats that are similar in style to the beats used in Hitmaka's songs. These beats are typically characterized by his catchy melodies, smooth grooves, interpolated samples of 90’s and 2000’s music and hard-hitting drums.

Why are Hitmaka type beats so popular?

Hitmaka is one of the most in-demand producers in the industry, known for his work with Drake, Lil Baby, Big Sean and other top artists. His beats are known for their ability to create bangers, and many artists have used Hitmaka type beats to create their own successful songs.

How to create a banger hit with a Hitmaka type beat

If you're looking to create a banger hit with a Hitmaka type beat, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, you need to make sure that the beat is catchy and memorable. Second, the beat should be appropriate for your song's lyrics and style. Third, the beat should be produced at a high quality.

Once you have a good Hitmaka type beat, you need to write lyrics that are catchy and memorable. The lyrics should also be appropriate for the beat's style. Once you have written your lyrics, you need to record your song and mix and master it to a high quality.

Where to find Hitmaka type beats

There are many places where you can find Hitmaka type beats. You can search for beats online, or you can contact a producer directly. If you are looking for high-quality Hitmaka type beats, you should check out FTP Beat Store at djftp.ca/beats. FTP Beat Store has a wide selection of Hitmaka type beats to choose from, and all of their beats are produced at a high quality.

Pop-Rap Beats: The Secret to Your Next Hit

What is Pop-Rap?

Pop-rap is a genre of music that combines elements of pop and hip hop. It is one of the most popular genres of music in the world, and it is constantly evolving. One of the most important elements of pop-rap is the beat. A good beat can make a pop-rap song stand out and become a hit.

Who makes pop-rap music?

Some of the most popular pop-rap artists include Drake, Cardi B, and Post Malone. Some of the most popular pop-rap songs include "FNF (Let’s Go) by Glorilla, "Players" by Coi Leray, and "Up" by Cardi B.

If you are looking for pop-rap beats, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, you should make sure that the beat hits hard and has a chord progression that is catchy and memorable.

Second, the beat should be appropriate for the song's lyrics and style.

Third, the beat should be produced at a high quality.

WheRE Can i find Pop-Rap beats?

There are many places where you can find pop-rap beats. You can search for beats online, or you can contact a producer directly.

If you are looking for high-quality pop-rap beats, you should check out FTP Beat Store at djftp.ca/

FTP Beat Store has a wide selection of pop-rap beats to choose from, and all of their beats are produced at a high quality.

The Controversial Do Not Play List of Grandmaster Flash: A Look at the Songs DJs Should Avoid

Grandmaster Flash is a hip-hop legend, and if you're in the know, you'll know about his infamous do not play list. This list is a collection of songs that he believes should never be played by DJs. The list is hotly debated, with some people thinking it's too restrictive, while others believe it's important for maintaining the integrity of hip-hop culture.

So, what kind of songs make it onto the do not play list? Grandmaster Flash believes that certain songs promote negative stereotypes and can be harmful to the hip-hop community. Some of the tracks on his list include "Cop Killer" by Ice-T, "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, "Gangsta's Paradise" by Coolio, and "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy.

Grandmaster Flash's passion for hip-hop culture goes beyond just music. He's a scholar and teacher, and he founded the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, New York, to preserve the history of hip-hop. Grandmaster Flash is also a vocal advocate for responsible DJing and the importance of upholding the culture.

If you're a DJ, you might be wondering if you should follow Grandmaster Flash's do not play list. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what music you play and the message you want to send to your audience. However, it's worth considering the impact that your music can have on the community and culture, and the importance of respecting hip-hop's roots.

In short, Grandmaster Flash is a hip-hop icon, and his do not play list is just one example of his dedication to the culture. Whether you agree with the list or not, it's clear that Grandmaster Flash has had a profound impact on hip-hop and will continue to shape the genre for years to come.

Top 5 Turn Up Songs of All Time: The Ultimate Party Playlist

Photo by AO

Top 5 Turn Up Songs of All Time: The Ultimate Party Playlist

When it comes to getting the party started, there are a few songs that always seem to do the trick. Here are my top 5 turn up songs of all time – the ultimate party playlist:

1. "Faneto" by Chief Keef: "I'm a gorilla in a f****** coupe"

   This song always gets people on the floor jumping up and down and swanging their locs.

2. "Dreams and Nightmares" by Meek Mill: "I used to pray for times like this / To rhyme like this / So I had to grind like that / To shine like this"

   Even though this song may be overplayed, people still love to recite it from the soul and have the club sounding like church.

3. "Freestyle" by Lil Baby: "Shoutout my label thats me, I'm in this bitch with TB, I'm in this bitch with 4 Tray..."

   Lil Baby fans are so crazy that they will recite this song word for word and ask for it to be played again immediately.

4. "Knife Talk" by Drake: "I heard Papi outside / And he got the double R Droppy outside"

   When the line "I heard Papi outside... and he got the double R Droppy outside" drops, people will have the earth shaking.

5. "Mo Bamba" by Sheck Wes: "I got hoooooeeesss, calling a young n***** phone"

   Sheck Wes has created his career off making the most hype music in history, and "Mo Bamba" is no exception. With its infectious beat and catchy lyrics, this song is sure to get the party started.

How I Became One of Toronto's Top Hip Hop DJs

As a DJ in Toronto, it's an honor to be recognized as one of the top in the city – especially in the competitive and vibrant hip hop scene. But how did I become one of Toronto's top hip hop DJs? Here are a few reasons why:

1. Extensive knowledge of hip hop: Being a top hip hop DJ isn't just about playing the latest hits – it's about having a deep understanding of the genre and its history. I've spent years studying and immersing myself in all aspects of hip hop culture, from the classic old school tracks to the newest underground releases.

2. Versatility and adaptability: As a DJ, it's important to be able to read the crowd and know how to keep the party going. I pride myself on my ability to adapt to any situation and play a wide range of music to keep the energy high. Whether it's a packed club or a more intimate event, I know how to keep the crowd moving.

3. Professionalism and reliability: As a professional DJ, I understand the importance of being on time, prepared, and easy to work with. I always arrive early to set up and make sure everything is in order, and I take the time to listen to clients and understand their vision for the event.

4. Creativity and originality: While it's important to play the hits, it's also crucial to bring something new and original to the table. I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting music to add to my sets, and I'm not afraid to take risks and play tracks that might not be mainstream.

5. Networking: Connecting with other industry professionals and building relationships has helped me get gigs and grow my career as a DJ in Toronto.

By combining my extensive knowledge of hip hop, versatility and adaptability, professionalism and reliability, and creativity and originality, I've been able to establish myself as one of Toronto's top hip hop DJs. If you're looking for a dynamic and skilled DJ to bring energy and excitement to your next event, I hope you'll consider me.

For more tips and just all around great content follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

Top 3 Tips for DJs Starting to Do Gigs Outside

As a DJ, there's nothing quite like the excitement of playing at a new venue or event. But if you're just starting to do gigs outside, it's important to be prepared and ready for any challenges that may come your way. Here are my top 3 tips for DJs starting to do gigs outside:

Photo by Anil

1. Say hello to everyone: When you're playing at a new venue, it's important to be friendly and approachable. Take the time to say hello to everyone you meet, from the event staff and security to the guests and other DJs. Building relationships and connections can go a long way in the music industry.

2. Build up your library: Before you start doing gigs outside, it's important to have a strong and diverse library of music to draw from. Take the time to curate your collection, and be sure to have a variety of genres and styles to fit different crowds and events.

3. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst: When you're playing at a new venue, it's important to be prepared for anything that might come your way. Always have backups on hand, including extra cables, USBs, and CDs (depending on the age of the CDJs at the venue). This way, you'll be ready for any unexpected issues that may arise.

By following these tips, you can set yourself up for success as a DJ starting to do gigs outside. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, these strategies will help you be prepared and ready for any challenges that may come your way.

For more tips and just all around great content follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

My DJing Schedule in Toronto: Where to Find Me

Photo by Kelvin

As a DJ in Toronto, I have a packed schedule playing at some of the city's hottest clubs and bars. If you're looking to catch a great DJ set in Toronto, here's where you can find me:

1. Mister Wolf: Every Wednesday, I'm at Mister Wolf, a popular bar and nightclub on Queen Street West known for its insane sound and lighting system. Here, I play the best in hip hop, reggaeton, and R&B for a diverse and energetic crowd.

2. Darkroom: Every Thursday, I'm at Darkroom, a nightclub known for its beautiful light system and diverse music selection. From hip hop and dancehall to afrobeats and house, I have the freedom to mix and blend different genres to create a unique and dynamic sound.

3. Isabelle's: Every Friday, I'm at Isabelle's, a trendy bar and nightclub on King Street West. With its fashionable and hip crowd, Isabelle's is the perfect place to play a wide range of music and keep the party going all night long.

4. Early Mercy: Every Saturday, I'm at Early Mercy, a stylish bar and nightclub on King Street West with a sophisticated and laid-back atmosphere. With 4AM last call every Saturday, Early Mercy is the perfect place to keep the party going until the early hours.

If you're looking for a great DJ set in Toronto, be sure to check out my schedule and come party with me at one of these amazing venues. I can't wait to see you on the dance floor!

For more tips and just all around great content follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

Top 5 Nightclubs and Bars to See a DJ in Toronto

Toronto is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of great places to see a DJ in action. Here are my top 5 picks for the best nightclubs and bars to catch a DJ in Toronto:

1. Lost & Found: Located on King Street West, Lost & Found is one of Toronto's most popular nightclubs for hip hop music. With its high-energy atmosphere and top-notch sound system, this venue is the perfect place to dance the night away to the best in hip hop.

2. Mister Wolf: Located on Queen Street West, Mister Wolf is a trendy bar and nightclub that attracts a diverse crowd. With its insane sound and lighting system, this venue is the perfect place to hear the best in hip hop, reggaeton, and R&B.

3. Century: Located on King Street West, Century is a popular nightclub known for its high-energy atmosphere and diverse music selection. With its well-curated vibes, this venue is the perfect place to hear a wide range of music, from hip hop to electronic and beyond.

4. Isabelle’s: Located on King Street West, Isabelles is a new bar and club that attracts a fashionable and hip crowd. With its eclectic mix of music, including EDM, afrobeats, guarancha, and dancehall, Isabelles is the perfect place to hear something new and exciting.

5. Early Mercy: Located on King Street West, Early Mercy is a stylish bar and nightclub that caters to a sophisticated crowd. With its intimate atmosphere and top-notch drink selection, Early Mercy is the perfect place to see a DJ in a more laid-back setting.

These are just a few of the many great venues to see a DJ in Toronto. Whether you're in the mood for a wild night out or a more laid-back atmosphere, these clubs and bars are sure to have something for everyone.

For more tips and just all around great content follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

5 Tips for Success as a DJ in Toronto

Hey all, I’m trying to get more active on my website this year so i’m gonna be making some posts talking DJ stuff, Hip Hop and the Toronto nightlife scene, hope y’all enjoy.

As a DJ in Toronto, it's important to stand out in a crowded and competitive industry. Here are five tips to help you succeed as a DJ in Toronto:

1. Find your niche: Toronto has a diverse music scene, so it's important to find a niche that sets you apart from other DJs. Whether it's a particular genre of music or type of event, focus on what you do best and let your unique style shine.

2. Build a strong online presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for DJs. Make sure to have a professional website, active social media accounts, and a well-curated online portfolio to showcase your work.

3. Network, network, network: The music industry is all about who you know, so it's important to get out there and make connections. Attend local events and festivals, join industry groups and forums, and collaborate with other DJs and musicians.

4. Stay up-to-date on industry trends: The music industry is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. Follow industry blogs and news sources, attend conferences and workshops, and be open to learning new things.

5. Don't be afraid to experiment: As a DJ, it's important to be open to new ideas and genres. Don't be afraid to take risks and try out new styles and techniques – it's often these experiments that lead to breakthroughs and success.

By following these tips, you can set yourself up for success as a DJ in Toronto. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, these strategies will help you stand out in the crowded music industry.

For more tips and just all around great content follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

PRESS: TOP 20 CANADIAN DJs YOU NEED TO KNOW

 

SHIFTER’s “Top 20 Canadian DJs you need to know” list is sponsored by You.i TV, the Ottawa-based company and platform that powers Twitch.

The COVID-19 pandemic has pretty much ground the live entertainment industry, including nightclubs, to a halt affecting not only club owners all over the world, but DJs. But many DJs have taking this time to flex their entrepreneurial muscles, exploring new opportunities, from music production to live streaming on Twitch and Instagram Live with DJs like D-Nice leading the charge.

Here in the north, our country has produced some of the best DJs in the world, from A-Trak and Kaytranada to Toronto Raptors DJ 4Korners. But for every celebrity DJ, there are thousands you don’t hear about. A few months ago, we asked our social media followers to let us know who were the top Canadian DJs that people needed to know about, from British Columbia to the Maritimes and they came through for us.

 

11. FTP // Toronto

Residency: Official DJ for the Ryerson Rams

How long have you been DJing: 10 years

Favourite DJs: Cale Granton, Lincoln Baio and Charlie B. Also guys like DJ Puffy and all the Soulection DJs. A-Trak, Diplo, Jazzy Jeff and Preemo.

Toronto-based Open format DJ and producer Jaden Burton, aka For The People, has been a staple in the city’s college party scene, playing venues like Grace O’Malleys, Tequila Jacks, Fiction and Orchid. Ten years deep on the scene, FTP was mentored by popular Toronto DJs, Cale Granton (Toronto Maple Leafs), Lincoln Baio (King Of The Dot), Jon Daniels (Lavelle) and Chris Laroque (REBEL), For The People became the youngest member of the Foreign City DJ Collective in 2018 after perfecting his craft in his bedroom for seven years.

In 2018, his time on the college party circuit brought him full circle as he accepted an offer to be the official DJ of the Ryerson Rams. That led to him performing Kawhi Leonard’s first open practice in Toronto at Ryerson University, as well as in being named the official DJ of the 2019 USPORTS Women’s Basketball Championship, televised nationally by Sportsnet. Despite his growing profile in the city of Toronto, perhaps his biggest accomplishment to date was being selected into the Top 64 in the World Beat Battle.

Read more at Shifter Magazine

 

For The Summer (2020 Hip Hop Mix)

 

DJ For The People rips the ones and twos on this Hip Hop, Drill and Toronto centric mixtape hosted by Clyde Smith.

@dj.ftp
@clyxsmith
Art by @thisaintkristoff

TRACKLIST
Mix Tracklist

For The People
Chris Brown & Young Thug - Go Crazy
Layton Greene - Leave Em Alone
Saweetie - Tap In
LBP Poody - Address It
YNW Melly - 223’s
Lil Wayne - Clap For Em (J. Medina Edit)
6ix9ine & Nicki Minaj - Trollz
DaBaby - Find My Way
Pop Smoke - Element (BlaccMass Candy Shop Edit)
Sleepy Hallow & Sheff G - Breakin Bad
JI The Prince of NY - Need Me
NSG - Options
Young T & Bugsey feat. DaBaby - Don’t Rush (Remix)
Roddy Ricch - High Fashion
T-Pain - I’m Sprung
Tory Lanez & T-Pain - Jerry Sprunger
Burna Boy - Ye (For The People Remix)
Wiley & Stefflon Don - Boasty
KSI feat. Tion Wayne and Swarmz - Houdini
Drake - From Florida With Love
Rich The Kid feat. Kodak Black and Playboi Carti - Plug
Jack Harlow feat. DaBaby, Tory Lanez and Lil Wayne - What’s Poppin
Drake - Nonstop (@user-290523936 Make No Sense Edit)
NBA Youngboy - Make No Sense
Migos & NBA Youngboy - Need It
Moneybagg Yo feat. DaBaby - Protect The Brand
Lil Yachty feat. Drake and DaBaby - Oprah’s Bank Account
JACKBOYS feat. Young Thug - Out West

Drill
BlaccMass - Blacc Cypher
BlackMass - Pluto Forever
Drake feat. Fivio Foreign and Sosa Geek - Demons
Ivorian Doll - Rumours
Pop Smoke - Dior
Pop Smoke - Christopher Walking
Fivio Foreign - Big Drip
Lil Tjay feat. Pop Smoke and Fivio Foreign - Zoo York
Sheff G - No Suburban Pt. 2
Tory Lanez feat. Fivio Foreign - K Lo K
JACKBOYS feat. Pop Smoke - GATTI
NoJokeJigsaw - HEATA (@nojokejigsaw-music)

Toronto
STK-9 - Risk It All (@STKnine)
Pressa - 96 Freestyle (@pressabluefeathersrecords)
Tory Lanez - Who Needs Love
Killy & Houdini - VV’s (@hoodhokage)
SAFE - Bounce Freestyle (@safe-44)
Pressa & Houdini - Up & Down (@dahoudini)
Houdini feat. J Neat - Backseat (@jneat)
88Glam - Dance For Me (@88-glam-88-glam)
Northside Benji - Clicquot (@northsidebenji)
Smiley - 90210 (@smiley61st)
Friye - Flawless (@friyie)
Young Smoke - Lifestyle (@youngsmoke878)
Jayy Brown - Finesse Kid (@365moneyteam)
frvrfriday - Nana (@frvrfridayofficial)
Nav - Turks (@beatsbynav)
Yung Tory - 2020 (@yungtorydyb)
Smoke Dawg - Trap House (Remix) (@smoke-dawg-878)
LB - Not Lyin (@king-lb-946090011)

Hip Hop
Sheff G - We Getting Money
Sheff G - Moody
Lil Yachty - T.D.
JACKBOYS - GANG GANG
Lil Baby feat. 42 Dugg - We Paid
Flipp Dinero - How I Move
ROCKY - Party Girl
Lil Tjay - Ruthless
Sleepy Hallow - Deep End
Baby Keem - STATS
Lil Baby - Emotionally Scarred
Megan Thee Stallion - Girls in The Hood
Megan Thee Stallion - Savage Remix
ROCK$TAR EDIT
DaBaby - ROCKSTAR
NLE Choppa - Camelot
NLE Choppa - Walk Em Down
Polo G - 21
Pop Smoke - Foreigner (BlaccMass Remix)
Drake - Can’t Take A Joke (BlaccMass Remix)
Drake - Time Flies (BlaccMass Remix)

Outro
Octavian - Papi Chulo
Lil Uzi Vert - Money Spread
Speaker Knockerz - Dap You Up (BlaccMass Remix)
Drake - Pain 1993
Lil Uzi Vert - Myron
Playboi Carti - @meh
Drake - Toosie Slide