Broken Social Scene

At the dawn of the 21st century, Toronto musicians Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning began building a unique social network through their band, Broken Social Scene. Since debuting in 2001, the band has defied typical band structures, often featuring a revolving door of performers and creating a dynamic, ever-evolving sound. Initially a basement recording project, their live performances were known for their improvisational nature, with members from diverse musical backgrounds including post-rock, Latin jazz, synth-pop, and dance-punk.

Their 2002 album You Forgot It In People set a new standard for indie rock, blending expansive soundscapes and emotional depth. Follow-up albums like Broken Social Scene (2005), Forgiveness Rock Record (2010), and Hug of Thunder (2017) continued this tradition of unpredictable, intricate music.

Broken Social Scene achieved widespread success, with rave reviews, performances at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza, and multiple Juno Awards. Their influence extended to the Toronto music scene, where they founded the Arts & Crafts label and the Field Trip festival, fostering new talent.

Despite evolving in sound and personnel, one thing remains constant: Kevin Drew’s parting words at the end of every show—“enjoy your lives.” This is more than a farewell; it is a call to action, urging fans to disconnect from their phones and engage with the world, creating their own social scene. Broken Social Scene proves that underdogs can thrive when united, and that community is key to both music and life.