when music meets mission: a night to remember

On Friday night, Matthew Perry House and Make Music Matter came together for Live Loud Live – an evening that proved the transformative power of music in addressing substance use and mental health needs.

Hosts Tom Power and Tara Slone brought incredible energy and heart to the stage. Tom's interview with Matthew Perry about his memoir, "Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing," added profound meaning to an already special evening.

The lineup was extraordinary: Serena Ryder, Dallas Green (City and Colour), Royal Wood, Benjamin Kowalewicz, Aaron Solowoniuk, Ian D'Sa and Jonathan Gallant (Billy Talent), Royal Wood, Andy Maize & Josh Finlayson (Skydiggers), Damhnait Doyle, Amy Millan, Sekou Lumumba, Hill Kourkoutis, Kim Stockwood, Cone McCaslin and Dave Baksh (Sum 41), Kevin Drew, Kevin Young, Andy Stochansky, Brian Kobayakawa, and Davide Direnzo.

Honourary Canadian and friend of Matthew Perry House, Hank Azaria brought down the house with his Bruce Springsteen tribute. Throughout the night, artists collaborated on reimagined classics, showcasing not just their talent but the genuine joy of creating together for a cause that matters.

Perhaps what moved me most was the overwhelming generosity – from sponsors who made the night possible, to artists who donated their time and talent, to attendees who bought tickets knowing they were supporting both organizations.

My Executive Director, Caitlin Morrison, captured it perfectly: "When you show up, beautiful things happen. The things that you never have a chance to see again." Her words remind us that showing up, even when inconvenient, creates moments we'll never forget.

This is a night none of us will soon forget.