At the halfway point of 2020, it's difficult to reflect on anything at all, including the music we love. It's like the world has turned upside down but all we can do is hope that, on the other side of everything that's happening, we'd be closer to seeing a world where everyone's human rights are respected. We're starting to see Canadian artists speak up and speak out, including in their music, to share their stories and feelings on what they've been through and the current situation. A few of the songs on this list fall into that category but there’s sure to be more to come as this movement isn’t one that will pass. To kick off a summer that will certainly be one to remember, here are the 10 best Canadian songs of June 2020. Happy Canada Day!
Bizz Loc, "Is It Worth It"
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He might be one of the hardest rappers out there but Bizz Loc still knows when enough is enough. Linking up with A.R.—one of his go-to producers—for “Is It Worth It” is Loc’s nod to the peers he’s lost to senseless violence. While the subject matter is slightly different for Bizz Loc, his undeniable passion is still there. Hopefully his message is heard and received.
Roney, "B.L.M."
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The thought-provoking social commentary Roney interweaves with his personal storytelling and affirmations makes for the powerful “B.L.M.” The song gets to the point right from the title, a parallel to the reality of the situation. There’s no more time for nuance.
Jack Harlow f/ DaBaby, Tory Lanez, and Lil Wayne, “What’s Poppin”
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With a deep dig into his bag of flows, Tory Lanez resurrects his "Swavey"-period cadence on the remix to Jack Harlow’s breakout hit “What’s Poppin” alongside Lil Wayne and DaBaby. Lanez goes as far as dropping the “Canada!” tag at the end of his verse, a callback that will surely be appreciated by his day ones.
Adria Kain, "Peace Be Still"
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Her voice was always luxurious but, with the way things are, it’s become an absolute necessity. The timing of Adria Kain’s return with “Peace Be Still” couldn’t be better. As much as this summer might pass us by, this moment of forced reflection might bring us to somewhere better than where we were before.
DVBSS f/ blackbear and 24kGoldn, “Tinted Eyes"
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The pair of Orangeville brothers that make up DVBSS brought blackbear and 24kGoldn together for this trunk-rattler. It’s a perfect reminder that it’s summertime and, even though there’s nowhere to go, there’s nothing wrong with going for a drive windows-down, blasting the song of the moment.
Smiley f/ LB Spiffy, "Name Brand"
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On the heels of his fire emoji EP YYZ-LAX, Smiley, and his infectious, nonchalant ad-libs, dropped this LB Spiffy collab. LB continues his streak of consistency while Smiley stays committed to his entertaining signature flow on the 6ixbuzz-commissioned joint.
LocoCity, "Credit Card"
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To keep the momentum from his debut project Save Yourself going, Bleecker St. boss LocoCity dropped this top-of-the-world anthem. As much as he references a few principles that keep his scene churning out high quality music, Loco leans on the classic, timeless sound he’s built for yet another triumph.
Tizzy Stackz and Pilla B, "Red Light"
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This collab between Tizzy Stackz and Pilla B is a gutter shoot ‘em up song. On the surface, it’s about the vulnerability of an enemy when they’re sitting at a red light, an easy recipe for revenge. But, as the downtempo track, which carries a reflective tone throughout, winds down to a singalong chant of “red light” with hand claps, it morphs into something else at the end. That red light, on a symbolic level, speaks to a place where anyone can find themselves. Slow down before you get there.
3MFrench, "In Da Field"
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The three Ms stand for "Makin Money Moves," which is also the title of Scarborough native 3MFrench’s new album. On the record’s upbeat single “In Da Field,” Triple M’s smooth flow stands out as he lays out what sets him apart: urgency and motivation.
88GLAM, "Gucci Snake
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With break-up rumours swirling after their ties with XO were severed and their Close To Heaven Far From God project was delayed, 88GLAM responds with their new mixtape, New Mania, which includes this banger.
