Drake is venturing into the live entertainment business with the launch of his own music venue called History. Partnering with Live Nation Canada, the 2,500-capacity venue is set to open in Toronto toward the end of 2021, serving as an alternative to much larger venues where fans are distanced from the stage.
Following Tuesday’s (June 8) announcement, Drizzy took to Instagram to share the inspiration behind the move and why it means so much to be able to open a venue in his hometown.
“When I was younger in Toronto the biggest goal in the world to me was getting a crispy Iceberg or Girbaud fit from Jaydees Connections with @goldoildiamonds and trying to get into this legendary party called History Dance,” he said.
“I never made it in but I always heard all about it in the days to follow.”
He continued, “Now thanks to this partnership with @michaelrapino artists from all across the world can come to Toronto and make their own History. See you in FALL 21 @historytoronto.”
History plans to “offer artists a versatile and intimate destination to perform and connect with fans in Toronto,” with 200 concerts and events intending to be hosted every year.
“Some of my most memorable shows were playing smaller rooms like History,” Drake said in a press release.
“I wanted to take those memories and what I learned to create an incredible experience for both the artists and the fans.”
Live Nation president and CEO Michael Rapino added, “We saw an opportunity to bring Toronto a great new venue, and we have so much gratitude and respect for Drake teaming up with us to bring it to life in the best way possible.”
Situated at 1663 Queen Street East in the Beaches neighborhood, History has been three years in the making with construction expected to be completed later this summer.
“History will offer guests up-close experiences with their favourite artists that are unrivaled in Toronto,” Live Nation Canada chairman Riley O’Connor concluded. “We take pride in and expect History to become an important part of the community.”
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Egbodo Benjamin – Founder & CEO of This Is Hip Hop HQ Egbodo Benjamin is the visionary founder and CEO of This Is Hip Hop HQ Magazine, a premier platform dedicated to amplifying voices in the hip-hop industry. His commitment to authentic music journalism and artist promotion has positioned This Is Hip Hop HQ as a trusted space for rising talents and industry discussions. In 2024, Benjamin was recognized as a Founder of the Year (Under 30) Nominee by FOYA.Africa, a testament to his impact and entrepreneurial excellence in the digital media and entertainment space. Beyond music and media, he is also a Quantity Surveyor, bringing precision, strategy, and analytical thinking to every project he undertakes. His diverse expertise bridges the gap between structured business growth and creative storytelling, making him a dynamic force in both industries. Under his leadership, This Is Hip Hop HQ continues to grow as a global hub for hip-hop culture, artist reviews, and industry insights.
