I am not a huge fan of live music. I used to go to a lot of concerts in my youth often going to at least a dozen during the summer months but in my adult years a combination of other commitments and different ways to spend my free time and money mean it takes something special to get me out to a live show. But here are five shows I would never miss:

1. K-os
I’ve been a big fan of his since I first saw him at Centennial College before his first album release. We got him in for $500 or something ridiculous like that. I love his music and his simple live show. However, the live show might be not as simple anymore since he’s more famous now.

2. James
This band at one time had the most played song on the radio (around the world) with Laid. It was featured in American Pie which gave them some Stateside fame but they were already a big hit in Europe and especially in their native England. They’ve had several great albums since Laid hit it big in North America but when they do come to Toronto, they play small venues and sell-out fast.

3. Sinéad O’Connor
I was in grade six or seven with Nothing Compares 2 U came out (written by Prince). It was a commercial success and topped the charts for a few weeks. I liked the entire album and picked up her previous releases and pretty much every one since. I saw her at Massey Hall in Toronto in 1996 or 97, I forget which year, and it was fantastic.

4. Michael Jackson
Just to see him dance and try to figure out what is up with this dude. But it would be a great show.

5. U2
Especially with their 360 degree stage they’ve designed. This would be a great show. Plus their huge catalogue of music to pull from – this would be an easy win.