CBC Music presents “Songs You Need to Hear,” a weekly showcase of fresh Canadian tracks. Take a look below to explore the current favorite songs of our producers. Don’t miss out on the best of CBC Music sent directly to your inbox every Saturday by signing up for our newsletter. Additionally, get excited for the 20 Canadian albums anticipated in 2026.
For more tunes, don’t forget to check out our SYNTH playlist on YouTube.
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**Hall of Fame, Chxrry**
Toronto’s rising R&B sensation, Chxrry, has dropped her debut album, “U, Me & My Ego,” with grand aspirations beyond local acclaim. In a recent interview with the Canadian Press, she expressed her desire for global recognition, boldly stating, “You want the city, I want the world.” This sentiment shines through in her track “Hall of Fame,” where she confidently asserts her prowess, claiming to outshine the top contenders. Despite her global dreams, Chxrry pays homage to her roots by referencing Toronto landmarks in her lyrics. With a catchy chorus demanding recognition, she advocates for unapologetic self-belief. – Melody Lau
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**Passport Picture, Kallitechnis and Mango Heist**
Montreal artist Kallitechnis delivers a shimmering jazz house track titled “Passport Picture” in collaboration with Los Angeles producer Mango Heist, catering to the wanderlust within us all. Listing off various cities she’s visited, Kallitechnis intertwines memories of a past love into the rhythmic melody. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an armchair dreamer, “Passport Picture” transports you to exotic destinations, setting the stage for their upcoming EP “Kosmos.” – Kelsey Adams
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**Secret Water, Gliiico**
Vancouver-born alt-rock trio Gliiico immerses listeners in a psychedelic journey with their sun-soaked single “Secret Water.” The De Torres brothers craft a dreamy atmosphere, blending ’80s synths and heartfelt lyrics to express longing and desire. As they tease their upcoming EP “The Veil,” the track’s pulsating energy and nostalgic vibes promise a captivating musical experience. – Natalie Harmsen
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**Suffer (acoustic version), Boy Golden**
Boy Golden’s evolution as an artist shines through in the acoustic rendition of his hit single “Suffer,” offering a raw and intimate perspective. Known for his lo-fi production style, Boy Golden strips down the track to its essence, creating a soul-stirring experience for listeners. This acoustic interpretation provides a new dimension to the song, showcasing his versatility and musical depth. – Nathan Gill