Loft Entertainment

First round of announcements for #Departure2025

Congratulations to Loft Entertainment Founder and CEO Randy Lennox for being appointed?as Officer of the Order of Canada?in recognition for his longtime contribution to Canadian culture. Randy is the first major music label executive in history to receive the Officer level distinction, the country’s highest civilian honour. “It is a privilege to work in the creative business that I love. This recognition was not something I could have imagined, and I am humbled to receive this honour.”

Sometimes, the stars align—and for this project, they really did. It’s no secret that we’re teaming up with the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Patrick Roberge Productions Inc and Loft Entertainment to deliver unforgettable talent for the opening and closing ceremonies in Vancouver 2025. But here’s what you didn’t know: a few months ago, at a surprise Jelly Roll show in Toronto, we pitched the idea of Jelly joining the Games as a performer. Being a huge advocate for veterans and mental health, he was all in. From there, the question became: how do we announce this in a way that’s totally Jelly Roll AND Invictus Games cool? Enter Jake Nothdurft from our team, who said, “What if Jelly Roll tattooed Prince Harry’s neck to announce it?” Wild? Yes. Brilliant? Also yes. And so, the magic began. We partnered with the talented Matt Finlin at Door Knocker Media to bring this idea to life. The challenges? Finding time in Jelly’s crazy NYC schedule (SNL, MSG, Global Citizen) and Prince Harry’s equally packed week at during UNGA. But in true 128 fashion, we made it work: 30 minutes, one tattoo shop, the perfect owner (shoutout Josh for shutting down his studio Eastside Ink Tattoo ) and a whole lot of teamwork. The result? A piece of content we’re ridiculously proud of—not just because it’s fun, but because of the light it shines on Invictus and the incredible competitors preparing for the Games. Huge thanks to Loft, Invictus, PMP, Door Knocker, Josh, Jelly Roll, and Prince Harry for being total legends and helping us bring this crazy idea to life. Here’s to inspiring moments and unforgettable collaborations! David Johnson Scott Moore Robyn McVicker Patrick Roberge Jenny Duncan Jeffrey Latimer and SO MANY more - THANK YOU! and more to come ?? #InvictusGames #JellyRoll #MentalHealth #VeteransSupport

“Departure honours where we’ve come from and celebrates where we are going.” Yesterday, Loft Entertainment and Oak View Group unveiled Departure Festival + Conference — a reimagined vision of Canadian Music Week happening May 6–11, 2025 in Toronto. Rooted in its rich music history, Departure expands its footprint in the arts and culture, embracing a broader spectrum of artistic expressions, from technology to comedy in its inaugural year, and expanding into film and fashion in the near future. #Departure2025 will debut an enriched program including a songwriter showcase, comedy performances, revitalized digital infrastructure, and an enhanced culinary experience with boutique food trucks and outdoor activations at its new home Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection. Radiodays North America will return as part of Departure, bringing industries back together to learn and inspire those working in audio entertainment. ? Artist applications open on November 22, with waived application fees and paid honorariums for showcase performers, a testament to Departure’s commitment to supporting and celebrating artists. Priority (VIP) and Conference Passes will go on early bird sale starting November 22 on departureto.com ??: George Pimentel

The long-running Canadian Music Week conference is entering an exciting new chapter following its recent acquisition by Canadian firm Loft Entertainment and U.S.-based venue developer and management company Oak View Group. Announced at a press conference in Toronto this afternoon, Departure Festival + Conference takes place May 6-11 at Hotel X in Toronto as reimagined and expanded event that builds on Canadian Music Week’s long and respected music history. Departure is set to feature new programming including music, art, comedy and technology, according to the announcement. To read full article click here: https://lnkd.in/esDzsTy9 #Pollstar #Departure2025 #OakViewGroup #LoftEnterainment