TORONTO —After decades of shaping Canada’s blues and roots scene from behind the keyboard, musician and producer Lily Sazz is taking centre stage with her first solo album, What Just Happened, set for release on October 24, 2025.
The record marks a defining moment for Sazz, who has long been known as a powerhouse collaborator — an accomplished keyboardist, backup vocalist, and bandleader — but never before as a solo artist. With What Just Happened, she’s stepping into her own voice, both literally and creatively. The collection of songs tells her story in a deeply personal way, fusing humour, heart, and hard-won wisdom.
A Turning Point Born from Adversity
Sazz’s debut emerged from a difficult period. After what she describes as a traumatic year in 2023, she channelled her energy and pain into music. The result is a body of work that reflects healing, resilience, and rediscovery.
“The result has been astounding,” reads the album’s announcement. The record features a “widely differing, yet cohesive collection of great songs” brought to life by an impressive roster of guest musicians — among them Colin Linden, Suzie Vinnick, Harry Manx, Steve Marriner, Darcy Hepner, Mike Branton, and Boreal.
Listeners can expect “tears, laughter, witty irony, and great musicianship,” the release notes. For Sazz, the creative process was nothing short of liberating. “Sometimes life in the music business feels like you’re paddling upstream, but with this project, it feels like I’m paddling with the current,” says Sazz. “I am enjoying the ride!”
From the Farm to the Stage
Sazz’s journey to solo artistry was anything but conventional. Raised in a farming community in Ontario’s Niagara Peninsula, her early years were far removed from the music industry. She first pursued classical music, majoring in piano and harpsichord, before an unexpected encounter with blues and roots music changed her direction entirely.
That discovery — raw, soulful, and spontaneous — sparked a lifelong passion that would shape her career. From that point, she became a fixture on the Canadian roots and blues circuit, lending her talents to countless projects and performances.
Building a Legacy in Canadian Blues
Over the years, Sazz built a reputation as a respected collaborator and leader. She spent a decade as musical director for the Women’s Blues Revue Band, one of Canada’s most recognized annual blues events. She also toured extensively with Rita Chiarelli, known as “Canada’s Queen of the Blues,” and co-founded several acclaimed bands, including Trailblazers, Groove Corporation, and the Maple Blues Award–nominated Cootes Paradise.
These experiences gave Sazz a front-row seat to the inner workings of the music industry, preparing her for the next chapter — one where she finally takes full creative control.
A Fresh Voice, a Confident Debut
Industry veterans are already praising What Just Happened for its craftsmanship and originality. Legendary Canadian producer Tom Treumuth, known for his work across genres and as host of the Talk Music podcast, calls the record a standout release.
“What Just Happened is a very special record. The songwriting is great, and Lily’s personality shines through, and she did a great job as producer. Every track offers a surprise that keeps you engaged. It’s refreshing to have some humour in the music, too,” says Treumuth.
With its blend of emotional depth, humour, and musicianship, What Just Happened offers an intimate look at an artist coming into her own. For Lily Sazz, it represents both a personal and professional milestone — the culmination of a lifelong journey from the background to the spotlight.
What Just Happened will be available on all major streaming platforms and through select Canadian retailers beginning October 24, 2025.
