Scenic mountain lake with forested shoreline and blue sky. Bold yellow text reads “Music BC Lineup Announced!” overlaid on the image.

Rifflandia Breakouts: BC Artists Poised to Steal the Show

From soulful slow burns to sweat-soaked dancefloor bangers, this year's Rifflandia lineup is bursting with homegrown talent ready to make a lasting impression. These are the artists pushing boundaries, blending genres, and bringing a fresh, fearless energy to every stage they step on. Whether it’s soul, indie rock, global rhythms, or deep, driving techno, each one is carving out their own lane in BC’s vibrant music scene. Get to know the six incredible acts—presented in collaboration with Music BC—set to light up the festival—and maybe even steal the whole show!

 

 

A performer in black clothing and sunglasses stands on a brightly lit stage, pointing outward, with an audience watching in a darkened theatre filled with blue stage lights and fog effects.

Sekawnee: Boundary-Breaking Beats with Deep Roots

Hailing from Vancouver, Sekawnee is a rising force on the West Coast—songwriter, producer, and recording artist all in one. With Indigenous roots from the Squamish, Tla'amin, Musgamagw Dzawada'enuxw, Tɫingit, and Xaayda Nations, and African heritage from the Ivory Coast, his sound carries a rich cultural depth and global perspective. After years of honing his skills behind the scenes, he's now stepping into the spotlight with sonically bold, lyrically sharp records that hit hard and linger long. Whether he’s singing, rapping, or producing, Sekawnee brings a fearless energy and creative freedom that’s impossible to ignore.

 

 

Three musicians perform on stage under vibrant purple lighting. One plays bass and sings, another plays drums, and the third plays electric guitar. “TROUBLE ON THE OUTSKIRTS” is displayed on banners behind them.

Trouble On The Outskirts: From Jazz Clubs to Indie Rock Fireworks

What started as a quiet jam session in a cozy Victoria jazz club quickly exploded into something much bigger. Guitarist Max Mackrill and drummer Michael Tessier laid the foundation, pulling inspiration from legends like Springsteen and The Killers. Add bassist Jared Sundberg and keyboardist Erik Evans, and suddenly Trouble On The Outskirts was crafting a fresh, uniquely compelling sound you can’t ignore. Expect heart, grit, and melodies that stick with you long after the last chord fades.

 

 

A man in a dark shirt stands against a black background, lit from above, with his head slightly bowed and his face in shadow, creating a contemplative or somber mood.

Ryael: Soul-Bearing R&B from the Church to the Stage

Born in Toronto and now rooted in Esquimalt, Ryael is turning heads with his raw, emotionally charged blend of Alternative R&B and Soul. Raised in the church, he cut his teeth singing and playing instruments, shaping a sound that’s as heartfelt as it is polished. His debut single Midnight Confession laid it all bare, while follow-up BLEED digs even deeper into grief and growth. With each track, Ryael delivers something rare—music that feels like a conversation with your inner self.

 

 

A woman poses confidently in a white sleeveless top, mini skirt, and knee-high socks against a blue, ethereal background with soft reflections on the floor.

ZEYDA: The Frequency Conductor Bringing Deep Techno with a Twist

Meet ZEYDA, a Vancouver-based techno artist who’s all about blending underground progressive beats with melodic vibes — and a dash of Middle Eastern flair that makes her sound truly unique. Known for getting dance floors moving and spirits soaring, she’s supported some heavy hitters like Nicole Moudaber and Yotto, and you can catch her lighting up festivals like FVDED In The Park. If you’re ready for a sonic journey that hits your heart and your hips, ZEYDA is your new favourite name.

 

 

A man with a full beard and glasses wearing a beige wide-brimmed hat and a plaid flannel jacket stands against a white background, holding his hands together and looking confidently at the camera.

DATGUYRY: Global Rhythms and Festival Energy You Can’t Ignore

When DATGUYRY takes the stage, expect an electrifying mix of R&B, Afrobeats, Hip-Hop, and Dancehall wrapped up in a vibe that bridges cultures and gets everyone moving. Whether under the sun or flashing lights, his sets are dynamic, high-energy celebrations that leave crowds buzzing. More than just a DJ, he’s a storyteller weaving rhythms that connect and inspire. Keep your eyes peeled — this producer is crafting the soundtrack to your next unforgettable night out.

 

 

A person wearing a patterned hoodie, cargo pants, and high-top sneakers stands against a low concrete wall with plaques, beneath leafy trees. The scene is black and white, and a No Parking sign is partially visible in the background.

Dj Lion: The Young Cub Roaring Into the Jungle of Drum & Bass

Levi, aka Dj Lion, is proof you’re never too young to rock the decks. Born and raised in Campbell River with a controller in hand by age 9, he’s already turning heads with his fluid mix of Drum & Bass, Jungle, and UK Garage. Mentored by Aspen King and fueled by a community supporting his passion, Levi has smashed milestones from local birthday raves to out-of-province gigs. Don’t be fooled by his age — this cub’s got serious claws when it comes to owning the dance floor.

 

 

So there you have it—six distinct, vibrant voices ready to bring their sound and soul to your ears. Whether you’re dancing, daydreaming, or just discovering your next favourite artist, this lineup promises a festival experience you won’t forget. Which one will you catch first?

 

Proudly supported by Music BC, Creative BC, and the Province of British Columbia.

 

 

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