By Steph.C.&BKONTHESCENE
In a world where music has the power to heal, inspire, and unite, two teenage brothers, Callum Buckley (18) and Thomas Buckley (16), have taken a stand to make a difference. Founded in its inaugural year, Rock The Barn Toronto was driven by a powerful purpose. After losing a classmate to suicide days before high school graduation in 2022, the Buckley brothers combined their love for music and charity to create this country music concert fundraiser to increase awareness for young people facing mental health challenges and raise money for the CAMH Foundation.
Set against the rustic and charming Barn at Fresh City Farms in Downsview Park in Toronto, generous music-loving donors gathered in their country-style best to enjoy a night filled with passionate performances. As the sun set and anticipation filled the air, the concert commenced with a wave of excitement. The stage came alive with artists ready to share their music.
The enchanting Claire Hunter combined country music with jazz vocal styling. Callum Buckley, the teenage talent who co-founded Rock The Barn Toronto, captivated the audience with covers of beloved favorites and his heartfelt and soul-stirring original compositions. He opened for Sacha, an Ontario-born singer-songwriter who was recently inducted into the prestigious CMT’s Next Women of Country class of 2021. Her electrifying energy and powerful vocals got the crowd singing along and toe-tapping the night away. Each artist brought their unique style and stage presence, and everybody loved them.
This charity concert was not just about the music; it celebrated community and generosity. Donors were treated to delicious food and drinks. Crank Lite Lager sponsored delightful beverages, while Ghost Tacos, a local culinary gem from Newmarket, provided nearly 600 tasty gourmet tacos.
Beyond the magnetic performances, Rock The Barn Toronto spotlighted mental health advocacy. Through the partnership with the No One Left Behind Campaign at CAMH, Dr. Shreejoy Tripathy from the Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics spoke about mental health issues and encouraged attendees to engage in open conversations about mental health with their families and friends, fostering a community of support and understanding.
Rock The Barn Toronto 2023 was a huge success thanks to all donors, sponsors, and the three highly talented upcoming country music artists. It was a night to remember.
We would like to thank the Buckley brothers for the invitation to Rock The Barn and we look forward to the event in 2024.
BKonthescene 