Acclaimed Canadian vocalist to release 10-track project through Universal Music Canada on June 26
New album blends jazz, soul, R&B and rock while highlighting cross-generational collaborations
Canadian jazz vocalist and songwriter Molly Johnson has announced the release of her new album Talk To Me, set to arrive June 26 through Universal Music Canada.
The 10-track project combines selections from Johnson’s recent All I See and Long Time Running EPs with four newly recorded songs, including the lead single “Holiday,” which was released this week. The album continues Johnson’s long-running exploration of jazz, soul, R&B and rock while introducing a broader collaborative approach involving artists from multiple generations of Canadian music.
Among the featured collaborators are JUNO Award-winning rapper Haviah Mighty, producer and artist CUBE, and Jim Cuddy of Blue Rodeo.
The album’s release marks another milestone in Johnson’s decades-long career, during which she has become one of Canada’s most recognized jazz and contemporary vocal performers.
Cross-generational collaborations shape the album’s direction
At the centre of the project is the title track, “Talk To Me,” a collaborative recording featuring Haviah Mighty that focuses on themes of communication, listening and intergenerational connection.
The track combines Johnson’s soulful vocal delivery with Haviah Mighty’s contemporary lyricism, creating what the singer describes as an intentional exchange between artists from different generations and musical traditions.
“What does a 67-year-old woman and a 21-year-old kid have in common? A real love of great music,” says Johnson about working with producer and artist CUBE. “I really believe we need to listen to younger voices, and I feel so excited that I get to be part of this new generation of music. The future looks bright to me.”
The collaborative spirit extends throughout the album, which Johnson says was built around openness to new perspectives and evolving creative approaches.
Industry observers note that established Canadian artists increasingly are pursuing partnerships with younger musicians and producers as part of efforts to bridge audiences across genres and demographics.
Jim Cuddy collaboration revisits Canadian classic
One of the album’s most anticipated recordings is Johnson’s interpretation of The Tragically Hip song “Long Time Running,” performed alongside Jim Cuddy.
Originally released in 1991, the song remains one of the most recognizable entries in Canadian rock music. Johnson’s reinterpretation aims to preserve the emotional resonance of the original while introducing a more intimate and jazz-influenced arrangement.
“This has been a long time coming,” says Johnson. “I’ve always wanted to record a duet with Jim. We’ve been friends for years, so to finally collaborate on a song by our beloved The Tragically Hip feels like real magic.”
The album also reunites Johnson with several longtime musical collaborators, including Davide Di Renzo, Mike Downes and Robi Botos, whose contributions have helped define her sound over many years.
New recordings such as “Holiday,” “Happy,” “Sunday Morning,” and “Just As Bad As You” further expand the project’s stylistic range while maintaining Johnson’s signature vocal warmth and interpretive style.
Album release supported by international live performances
Johnson is scheduled to support the album with several live performances this summer, including Canadian dates in Winnipeg and Montréal before heading overseas for a performance in France.
Her upcoming tour schedule includes:
- June 17, 2026 – Winnipeg, Manitoba – Desautels Concert Hall
- June 26, 2026 – Montréal, Quebec – Gesù
- July 1, 2026 – Vienne, France – Théâtre Antique
The release arrives during a period of sustained recognition for Johnson, who continues to hold a prominent place within Canada’s cultural and music sectors.
Over the course of her career, Johnson has received multiple honours, including two JUNO Awards, the Governor General’s Award, the Order of Canada and the Chevalier Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Long-standing influence beyond music
Beyond her recording and performing career, Johnson has also played a significant role in arts advocacy and charitable initiatives across Canada.
In 1993, she launched the Kumbaya Festival in support of AIDS hospices and Canadians living with AIDS, an initiative that contributed directly to the establishment of Toronto’s Casey House. The event remains one of the largest music fundraising efforts in Canadian history.
Johnson also serves as the founding artistic director of the Kensington Market Jazz Festival in Toronto, where she has helped showcase hundreds of performers while supporting local music communities.
Talk To Me will be available June 26 through Universal Music Canada, with “Holiday” currently available on streaming platforms.