2,500 Rock Out at Free 54-40 Concert in Whitehorse, Yukon

UPDATE: A thrilling free concert by Canadian alt-rock band 54-40 rocked Whitehorse, Yukon, on August 30, 2023, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of between 2,500 to 3,000 fans. The performance, held at Shipyards Park, featured iconic hits like “Ocean Pearl” and “I Go Blind,” captivating attendees who eagerly sang along.

Concert-goers flocked to the park, where the sun shone brightly on the vibrant gathering. Lead vocalist and chief songwriter Neil Osborne energized the crowd, sending waves of excitement through fans as they clapped and cheered. The concert opened with performances by Bria Rose and Kris Moore, setting a lively tone that resonated throughout the evening.

Organizers from Lotteries Yukon and the Yukon Arts Centre were thrilled with the turnout, with Michele Emslie, the centre’s director of programming, stating, “Not only did Mother Nature cooperate, but there were obviously many 54-40 fans in the crowd.”

The event was part of a larger concert series, following another successful show featuring Our Lady Peace earlier this summer. Sara Skelton, CEO of the Yukon Lottery Commission, emphasized the concert’s community spirit. “Many shared how special it was to have a free concert where the whole community could enjoy a legendary Canadian band together,” she remarked.

In a surprise twist, 54-40 treated the audience to unreleased songs, adding an exclusive element to the night. Backstage, the band expressed their admiration for the Yukon, praising its stunning beauty and warm hospitality. This marked 54-40‘s fourth visit to Whitehorse, with their last performance six years prior.

The band has deep roots in Vancouver’s music scene, having formed in 1980. They continue to create new music, with tracks such as “Running for the Fence” and “Go Get ‘Em,” recorded this spring in Portugal, set to be released in October.

Families and fans of all ages enjoyed the concert, with many noting the accessibility of the venue. The Yukon Arts Centre describes 54-40‘s shows as “extraordinary affairs that bridge gaps between generations through a shared love of music.”

As the night concluded, Neil Osborne returned to the stage for a solo acoustic rendition of “One Gun,” followed by an encore that left the audience wanting more. This unforgettable evening solidified 54-40‘s legacy in the hearts of Yukoners, making it a night to remember.

Stay tuned for more updates from this vibrant concert scene as 54-40 continues to inspire and entertain across Canada.