ArtistDirect News
Xavier Trudeau, Xav, Debuts in Ottawas Shawarma Festival Amid Political Spotlight
Xavier “Xav” Trudeau, the 18‑year‑old son of former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, performed at the second annual Shawarma Festival in Ottawa on Saturday, May 13, 2026. The event, which drew a record 350‑metre line of 2,451 shawarmas, also served as a platform for the young artist’s latest single, “Back Me Up.” The performance was part of a growing body of work that began with the release of his debut single, “Til the Nights Done,” on February 21, 2025.
Xav’s music career began in January 2025, a few weeks after his father announced his intention to resign as prime minister. The 17‑year‑old had already been creating music on BandLab since age 13 or 14, a process he described as a way to “share my story in a different way.” He released “Til the Nights Done” as a moody R&B track that drew comparisons to Drake and Don Toliver. The single’s lyrics, which reference cannabis and sexual themes, sparked backlash from listeners who linked the content to Xav’s age and his father’s political profile. A YouTube comment calling him “Lil Carbon Tax” exemplified the criticism.
Since his debut, Xav has issued four additional singles and an EP titled When Does It End?. He also produced a reaction video featuring his father’s responses to “Back Me Up.” In interviews, Xav has said he has not been shy about identifying himself as Justin Trudeau’s son. He has stated that the support of his father and, according to reports, his father’s girlfriend Katy Perry, has helped him navigate public scrutiny.
The Shawarma Festival performance was a significant moment for Xav, who said the event was a “good introduction” to a broader audience. The festival’s organizers noted that Xav’s presence added a unique cultural dimension to the event, blending music and culinary celebration. The festival itself is organized by Giza Entertainment and has become a staple in Ottawa’s cultural calendar.
Xav’s public statements reveal that he views his political lineage as both a benefit and a challenge. He has said that while he has had conversations with his father and his team about how to present himself publicly, he believes he can succeed “with or without” that connection. He has also expressed an intention to move to Los Angeles in September 2026 to further his music career.
Musically, Xav cites Don Toliver and Kid LAROI as major influences, noting that he focuses on melodies and flows rather than lyrical content. He has worked with Canadian artists such as Tyler Shaw, Virginia to Vegas, and Chantal Kreviazuk, and has received songwriting advice from these collaborators.
Despite the political backdrop, Xav has emphasized that his music is a personal expression. He has said that he wants to “make a change” and “sell out arenas,” aiming to leave a lasting impact on listeners. He has also stated that he is not a political figure and will not shy away from speaking on issues when he feels strongly.
The public reception to Xav’s work remains mixed. While some listeners have criticized the lyrical content, others have praised his production and vocal delivery. Xav has acknowledged that many people judge him based on his father’s reputation rather than his music. He has said that he is willing to listen to criticism but also expects listeners to give his work a chance.
In summary, Xavier Trudeau’s entry into the music scene has been marked by a rapid release schedule, a notable festival performance, and ongoing discussions about the intersection of his family background and artistic identity. His upcoming move to Los Angeles and continued releases suggest that he intends to pursue a long‑term career independent of his political heritage.
Xav’s music career began in January 2025, a few weeks after his father announced his intention to resign as prime minister. The 17‑year‑old had already been creating music on BandLab since age 13 or 14, a process he described as a way to “share my story in a different way.” He released “Til the Nights Done” as a moody R&B track that drew comparisons to Drake and Don Toliver. The single’s lyrics, which reference cannabis and sexual themes, sparked backlash from listeners who linked the content to Xav’s age and his father’s political profile. A YouTube comment calling him “Lil Carbon Tax” exemplified the criticism.
Since his debut, Xav has issued four additional singles and an EP titled When Does It End?. He also produced a reaction video featuring his father’s responses to “Back Me Up.” In interviews, Xav has said he has not been shy about identifying himself as Justin Trudeau’s son. He has stated that the support of his father and, according to reports, his father’s girlfriend Katy Perry, has helped him navigate public scrutiny.
The Shawarma Festival performance was a significant moment for Xav, who said the event was a “good introduction” to a broader audience. The festival’s organizers noted that Xav’s presence added a unique cultural dimension to the event, blending music and culinary celebration. The festival itself is organized by Giza Entertainment and has become a staple in Ottawa’s cultural calendar.
Xav’s public statements reveal that he views his political lineage as both a benefit and a challenge. He has said that while he has had conversations with his father and his team about how to present himself publicly, he believes he can succeed “with or without” that connection. He has also expressed an intention to move to Los Angeles in September 2026 to further his music career.
Musically, Xav cites Don Toliver and Kid LAROI as major influences, noting that he focuses on melodies and flows rather than lyrical content. He has worked with Canadian artists such as Tyler Shaw, Virginia to Vegas, and Chantal Kreviazuk, and has received songwriting advice from these collaborators.
Despite the political backdrop, Xav has emphasized that his music is a personal expression. He has said that he wants to “make a change” and “sell out arenas,” aiming to leave a lasting impact on listeners. He has also stated that he is not a political figure and will not shy away from speaking on issues when he feels strongly.
The public reception to Xav’s work remains mixed. While some listeners have criticized the lyrical content, others have praised his production and vocal delivery. Xav has acknowledged that many people judge him based on his father’s reputation rather than his music. He has said that he is willing to listen to criticism but also expects listeners to give his work a chance.
In summary, Xavier Trudeau’s entry into the music scene has been marked by a rapid release schedule, a notable festival performance, and ongoing discussions about the intersection of his family background and artistic identity. His upcoming move to Los Angeles and continued releases suggest that he intends to pursue a long‑term career independent of his political heritage.