Xav Trudeau Headlines Ottawas Shawarma Festival, Blending Politics and R&B

On Sunday, June 7, 2026, 18‑year‑old Xavier “Xav” Trudeau took the stage at Ottawa’s second annual Shawarma Festival, a community event that blends food, music and local culture. The performance marked the first time the son of former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau had headlined a public event outside the political sphere.

Xav, who launched his music career in January 2025, released his debut single “Til the Nights Done” in February. The track, described as atmospheric R&B with references to cannabis and romance, drew mixed reactions. Some listeners criticized the lyrics for their perceived political undertones, while others praised the production and vocal delivery. The single’s release coincided with the announcement of Trudeau’s resignation as prime minister, a timing that amplified scrutiny.

The young artist’s early career began with a single recorded in a professional studio, followed by four additional singles and an EP titled When Does It End?. He has also produced a reaction video featuring his father’s responses to his music. Xav has openly discussed the influence of artists such as Don Toliver and the Kid LAROI on his sound, noting that he “studied their melodies, flows, and genre” to shape his own style.

In interviews, Xav has addressed the intersection of his family legacy and his music. He explained that he was “told, ‘You should stay away from doing this,’ ‘You shouldn’t do that.’” He added that these lessons helped him gauge when to pursue public exposure. When asked whether the timing of his debut was strategic, he said the release was already planned before his father’s resignation announcement.

Public reception has been polarized. Some listeners reacted negatively to the combination of his political background and the lyrical content of “Til the Nights Done,” with one YouTube comment mocking him as “Lil Carbon Tax.” Xav acknowledged that criticism often stems from personal feelings toward his father, but he stated that he would “live with it” and that he had spoken to detractors who ultimately found his music “pretty chill.”

Xav has not shied away from acknowledging his lineage. He has said that having a high‑profile parent is both a benefit and a challenge, noting that his father publicly expressed pride in his work. He also mentioned support from his father’s girlfriend, pop star Katy Perry, though he emphasized that his career is independent.

Looking ahead, Xav plans to move to Los Angeles in September to further his music career. He expressed a desire to “make a change” and “sell out arenas,” aiming to leave a lasting impact through his music. He has also indicated interest in collaborating with Canadian artists such as Tyler Shaw, Virginia to Vegas, and Chantal Kreviazuk.

The Shawarma Festival, organized by Giza Entertainment in partnership with Ottawa Tourism, is a growing cultural event that attracts local vendors and performers. Xav’s appearance at the festival underscores his growing presence in the Canadian music scene and highlights the broader conversation about how public figures’ family ties intersect with artistic pursuits.

As Xav prepares for his relocation to Los Angeles, the music industry will likely continue to monitor how his dual identity as a musician and the son of a former prime minister shapes his trajectory. For now, his recent performance at Ottawa’s Shawarma Festival stands as a milestone in his evolving career.