Canada’s Walk of Fame: Music Under the City Stars

Some of Canada’s most talented singer-songwriters and musical icons gathered in Toronto on August 2 for Music Under The City Stars, an exclusive fundraising event at the majestic Casa Loma presented by Canada’s Walk of Fame, Walter and Maria Schneider, Jeffrey Latimer Entertainment and Liberty Entertainment Group. The intimate affair with only 200 guests raised over $350,000 and created awareness and support for the future of Canada’s Walk of Fame and its Foundation. New national programs are being created to develop emerging Canadian talent in five pillars; Arts and Entertainment, Sports and Athletics, Science and Technology, Business and Entrepreneurship, and Philanthropy and Humanities.

Surrounded by the castle’s spectacular gardens, at sunset guests dined on incredible food and wine while experiencing unforgettable musical performances and first-time collaborations from a diverse range of artists all accompanied by the Andy Kim Band. The event kicked off with an entertaining medley performed by the evening’s host Sean Cullen. Canadian country singer Michelle Wright then delivered her hit songs “Take It Like A Man” and “Safe In The Arms of Love” followed by Kayla Diamond who performed her chart-topper “Carnival Hearts” and a cover of The Weeknd’s “Starboy.” Canadian jazz singer Nikki Yanofsky energized the audience with her single “Something New” complete with a horns section. Nikki invited Glass Tiger’s own Alan Frew to the stage to join her in singing the 2010 Olympic theme song “I Believe.” Renowned composer Stephan Moccio joined the performance on the piano, marking the first time that the three delivered this song together. Alan went on to sing a couple of his own hits including “Someday.”

Just before the intermission, legendary guitarist Don Felder of The Eagles made a surprise guest appearance, thrilling the audience with “Take it Easy” and “Hotel California.”

Andy Kim and Ron Sexsmith had the crowd moving with classic hits “Baby I Love You” and “Sugar, Sugar.” Canadian comedian and impressionist Andre-Philippe Gagnon performed a medley of Canadian songs in his signature style – from The Guess Who to Gordon Lightfoot, Neil Young and The Weeknd, while Sean Jeans delivered a soulful performance of “I’ll Never Smile Again” by Canadian Ruth Lowe, and pop singer and songwriter Jonathan Roy sang his hit “Face Brave.”

Canada’s Walk of Fame inductee Corey Hart told stories and sang a few songs before closing the night as he brought the house down with his hit song “Never Surrender.”