TBFF LIVE PERFORMANCES SERIES - Day 1

Music Performance: Mel Dubé An eclectic blend of natural Caribbean-inspired vibrations, soulful rhythms is the essence of Toronto-based singer-songwriter Mel Dubé. Her sound is neo-soul and reggae influenced, with a melodic pop fusion. Trained in music theatre and jazz, Mel’s gift has been blessed by her Jamaican heritage and intrinsic love for music. As an independent artist, she released the single “Extra Side,” which was featured on international festivals and was the soundtrack of Music 311, a telephone system initiative managed by the City of Toronto. Her on-stage experience at the Redemption Toronto Reggae Fest, YYZ Live, to virtual shows for Toronto Black Film Festival 2021 solidified her abilities and desire to share her music. As an artist to watch, her current album, The Reveal features the single "Let it Go" that connects with her fans by having memorable reggae punchlines with a special touch of dancehall sensuality. Spoken Word Performance: Shakkoi Shakkoi is the CEO of Need Some Koi Inc. - a creative business that specialises in encouraging the use of self expression through art facilitation (Floetry Fitness). She is a poet, dance instructor & two time author. Her voice and expression has graced the stages of Afro Fest, Toronto Black Film Fest, Breakfast Television, Global News, Nia Centre for the Arts, Vibe 105 FM, The Virtuosity of Blackness, Pickering's Art Fest and was a keynote speaker for the University of Toronto, to name a few of her accomplishments. Shakkoi's unique, raw and powerful presence encourages many to "Release their Doubts & Step Out!". With plenty of experiences to share, there is no doubt that everyone needs some Koi in their lives!