Montréal's Harlem of the North Festival will welcome one of New York rap's defining voices this summer, as Lloyd Banks headlines the first day of the event on August 8 at Parc Angrignon. The fourth edition once again aims to showcase hip-hop culture in all its depth and diversity.
For festival founder Kevin Calixte, bringing Banks to Montréal was the result of careful planning. The idea came after seeing the celebrations surrounding the 22nd anniversary of The Hunger for More, the legendary G-Unit member's debut album. "We thought it would be a great way to pay tribute to that record at Harlem of the North, much like we did with Rainmen during the festival's first edition for the 25th anniversary of Armageddon." In his view, Banks represents a generation of rappers who defined the 2000s and whose influence continues to resonate today.
Since its inception, Harlem of the North has remained committed to celebrating hip-hop's five foundational elements: DJing, MCing, breakdancing, graffiti, and knowledge. That mission has never changed. "We want to create a space where the French-speaking and English-speaking scenes can come together, collaborate, and celebrate the culture in the same place and with the same spirit," Calixte explains.
The 2026 edition will also continue strengthening ties between Canada's hip-hop communities. Artists from Toronto and Ottawa will join the lineup to encourage greater exchange between the country's different scenes. Other performers announced for the festival include Montréal rapper Lyna Blu, Toronto's Raz Fresco, and the duo Ryse and Drey.
For Calixte, the festival is ultimately about creating a place where artists, DJs, media, and audiences can build relationships that last well beyond the weekend.
Beyond the music itself, that sense of community remains his greatest source of pride. "You see young people, parents, pioneers of the movement, and the next generation all experiencing the festival together. It's become a true intergenerational gathering." The complete lineup for the August 8 and 9 festival will be unveiled in the coming weeks, adding to a bill that already features one of American rap's most respected lyricists.
