Canadian Music Through the Decades 2010 to 2014

Welcome to the Eighth Edition of Our Canadian Music Through the Decades Series!

Welcome back to Our Canadian Music Through the Decades Series! This time, we’re diving into the early 2010s, a period that saw Canadian music scaling new heights, breaking international barriers, and solidifying its place on the global stage. From viral sensations to chart-topping hits and cultural moments that captured the world’s attention, the years 2010 to 2014 were a thrilling chapter in Canada’s musical history.

A New Era of Canadian Music

The early 2010s marked a shift in Canadian music. Gone were the days when Canadian artists struggled for global recognition. This era saw a surge of artists whose talent and innovation demanded attention, both at home and abroad. From indie darlings to pop icons, Canada produced a wealth of talent that dominated charts and defined the sound of the decade.

The Rise of the Canadian Pop Superstar

Pop music witnessed a renaissance in the 2010s, led by Canadian megastars like Justin Bieber, Drake, and The Weeknd. Bieber’s journey from YouTube sensation to international pop icon exploded in the early part of the decade, with hits like “Baby” and albums like Believe (2012) catapulting him to global fame. Drake, already a rising star, solidified his status as one of the most influential artists of the decade with albums like Take Care (2011) and Nothing Was the Same (2013). His seamless blend of rap, R&B, and pop redefined modern hip-hop and made him a global cultural icon.

Meanwhile, The Weeknd burst onto the scene with his 2011 mixtape trilogy (House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence), followed by his breakout album Kiss Land (2013). His moody, atmospheric R&B sound not only resonated with fans but also influenced the genre’s direction in the years to come.

Indie Acts and the Continued Evolution of Canadian Rock

While pop and hip-hop dominated the charts, Canada’s indie and rock scenes were alive and thriving. Arcade Fire’s The Suburbs (2010) was a defining moment, earning the band the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2011 and proving that Canadian indie rock could compete on the world stage. Other indie acts, such as Feist, Broken Social Scene, and Metric, continued to make waves, blending thoughtful lyrics with innovative sounds.

Tegan and Sara underwent a significant sonic shift during this period, transitioning from indie-folk to synth-driven pop with their 2013 album Heartthrob, featuring hits like “Closer” that found new audiences while retaining their core fan base.

The Hip-Hop and R&B Explosion

Canadian hip-hop and R&B gained unprecedented traction during these years. In addition to Drake and The Weeknd, artists like Classified, Kardinal Offishall, and K’naan contributed to the genre’s growing popularity. K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag,” released in 2009 but gaining momentum in 2010 as the official anthem for the FIFA World Cup, brought a message of hope and resilience to a global audience.

Viral Hits and Cultural Moments

The early 2010s also gave us some unforgettable viral hits. Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” (2012) was a cultural phenomenon, becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time and earning her international stardom. Meanwhile, Baauer’s “Harlem Shake,” though not Canadian itself, created opportunities for Canadian artists to explore viral platforms like YouTube, which was becoming a major force in music discovery.

Breaking International Barriers

Canadian artists in this era were not just creating music—they were shaping culture. They became headliners at major festivals, topped the Billboard charts, and received widespread acclaim. Music videos, award show performances, and collaborations with international stars further cemented their status.

Hits That Defined 2010-2014

Some of the standout Canadian tracks from this period include:

“The Suburbs” by Arcade Fire
“Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
“Take Care” by Drake ft. Rihanna
“I Feel It Coming” by The Weeknd
“Closer” by Tegan and Sara
“Anything” by Hedley
“Wavin’ Flag” by K’naan

A Thriving Legacy

Looking back, the years 2010 to 2014 were a golden era for Canadian music, setting the stage for the global dominance that Canadian artists enjoy today. The diversity of sound, the bold creativity, and the ability to connect with audiences worldwide continue to inspire the next generation of artists.

So, as we continue to explore the rich history of Canadian music through the decades, take a moment to revisit the music of the early 2010s. Relive the hits, discover the deep cuts, and celebrate a time when Canada truly made its mark on the global stage.

What were your favourite Canadian tracks from this era? Let us know in the comments and keep the conversation going!