On May 13, NXNE offered a preview of its 30th anniversary celebrations with a spectacular programming launch party that set the tone for an edition focused on innovation, renewal, and creativity. Held at Toronto’s Illuminarium, the event gave an exclusive audience—made up of media, industry professionals, and VIP guests—a first look at Rolling Stone Presents: AMPLIFIED, the Immersive Rock Experience.
From the moment they entered the space, guests were immersed in a sensory world that pushed the limits of technology, with advanced 4K projection, 3D audio, haptic flooring, and an immersive environment spanning over 7,000 square feet. The show traces the history of rock while making it vibrate and move.
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Conceived by Jodi Peckman (former Creative Director of Rolling Stone) and Joe Levy (former Editor-in-Chief of the magazine), the AMPLIFIED experience presents a thematic, non-linear narrative that explores backstage stories, studio sessions, political messages, fans, and much more. Narrated by Kevin Bacon and accompanied by a soundtrack featuring over 300 artists, the installation brings together more than 1,000 photos, 200 videos, and 1,300 Rolling Stone covers.
Highlights include the voice of Aretha Franklin, a rare Radiohead studio excerpt, the iconic hairstyles of Elvis and Justin Bieber, and a nod to Chappell Roan and her Pink Pony Club. The floor morphs into a garden, a studio carpet, or a club floor, while the walls pulse with images and music. The effect is complete—sensory and intergenerational.
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After the screening, the evening continued in a festive atmosphere. Guests enjoyed gourmet bites by renowned local caterer Food Dudes and refined cocktails courtesy of Distillerie de Montréal, before being treated to an immersive DJ set by the enigmatic Sickick.
“For thirty years, NXNE has propelled talent to the international stage, fueled discovery, and created major cultural and economic impact. But its true strength lies in its commitment to equity, accessibility, and the belief that great talent can come from anywhere,” said Elizabeth Crisante, Chief Commercial Officer at AMG, the parent company of NXNE and Rolling Stone Québec. “Rolling Stone shares this mission. Since 1967, the publication has documented the evolution of music and society, giving a voice to movements, uncovering truth, and spotlighting the artists who shape our world. In Canada, we carry that legacy forward by creating new avenues for artists to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”
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In addition to marking NXNE’s official launch, the event allowed key players in the music and media industries to connect and exchange ideas, paving the way for new collaborations. With AMPLIFIED as a starting point, the festival promises to go beyond traditional formats to reinvent our relationship with music.
Rolling Stone AMPLIFIED is on view at Illuminarium Toronto until the end of summer, before making its way to Montreal. For more information, visit the Illuminarium website.
