Punjabi music has garnered significant attention in the global music arena, with Canada playing a vital role. Leading Punjabi artists like AP Dhillon, Karan Aujla, and Shubh, with roots in cities such as Brampton, Ont., Surrey, B.C., and Victoria, are currently making waves. While these stars have risen in recent times, there exists a rich history of musicians who paved the way for their success.
A new series, The Punjabi Wave, produced by CBC Music in collaboration with the CBC Creator Network, delves into the evolution of Punjabi music in Canada. The series explores the journey from performances in wedding halls to sold-out arenas, highlighting the artists and producers who used music as a means to connect sounds, identities, and generations.
The inaugural episode spotlights Jazzy B, the first Punjabi Canadian superstar, who is revered by many contemporary artists as a trailblazer and source of inspiration. Hailing from Surrey, Jazzy B created groundbreaking music that reshaped the landscape of Punjabi music.