Photograph by Eric Chakeen
Toronto has been growing skywards at a remarkable rate for the past 15 years or so and has taken on a whole new life along the way. Looming towers of glass and stone stand tall over stately Edwardian architecture, red-brick factories and stoic smokestacks that reflect a bygone era. Building cranes are as common as Canada geese.
But a city such as Toronto isn’t defined by its real estate. It’s the people, the rich blend of cultures, the palpable energy and hometown pride that give this place its distinct character. To help capture the true spirit of The 6, we caught up with the coolest guys in the city, the creative forces who are shaping local culture and making waves around the world. As their star power and influence continue to grow, each has made a concerted effort to keep his roots firmly planted in Toronto’s rich terroir, cultivate the scene and hone his craft. Together they represent a new guard that is proudly representing their city on the global stage.
Read the full story here.
Messrs Majid Al Maskati (left) and Jordan Ullman, aka Majid Jordan
There’s something delightfully infectious about Majid Jordan’s music. You’ve probably had one of their songs stuck in your head without even knowing it. Case in point: the Canadian R&B duo’s smash-hit collab with Drake, “Hold On, We’re Going Home”. Comprising singer Mr Majid Al Maskati and producer Mr Jordan Ullman, Majid Jordan have been releasing a stream of acclaimed albums and hit singles since 2011, perfecting the slow jam in the process. Their latest track, “Superstar”, ignited airwaves the second it dropped in October and is an apt description of their current status.
How did you guys link up and realise you could make music together?
Mr Jordan Ullman: It was pretty instant. We had an initial conversation. We saw each other on the street probably a few months after that and then started recording in my makeshift dorm studio. We were just two young guys trying to create.
Mr Majid Al Maskati: When I first met Jordan, I was like, “Yo! This guy has some skills that I’ve never seen before.” I’ve never been in a situation where I was able to record and produce so seamlessly. He’s so easy-going and open-minded and eclectic in his tastes. That all led to wanting to work together.
What is the key to a good creative partnership?
Mr Al Maskati: Communication. Respect. Just trying to put yourself in one another’s position. Also, patience with one another and with yourself. We all have good days and bad days. If I’m having a rough day, he can lift me up. You have to motivate each other. It’s easier to motivate one another than to constantly motivate yourself.
There’s so much incredible music coming out of Toronto. What’s driving that?
Mr Ullman: It’s almost like an optimistic competition with the world. I was born and raised here, and it’s friendly enough that you don’t feel isolated. It’s also big enough that you don’t feel limited and small enough that you really feel like you can do something major.
How does it feel to do a show in front of your hometown crowd?
Mr Al Maskati: Oh, man, we get mad love. That’s why we’re so proud to be from Toronto, because the people that come to our shows, they sing almost every single word. We sold out two nights in a row on our last tour and we just want to keep giving back to them. The fans are really what got us this far.
What’s in store for 2020?
Mr Ullman: We’re really taking our time with what we’re working on because it’s a whole new decade of music.
Mr Al Maskati: No pressure!
Mr Ullman: I’ve literally been thinking about it like that. You spend so much time working to make something that can speak to people for ever. So, we’re working on our third album and hopefully seeing more places around the world.
Mr Al Maskati: Maybe we’ll go to Bahrain and record over there. That’s where I’m originally from and, with Jordan, I want to help build a bridge between these two places and start creating some things across the borders.