Christina Smith’s musical journey is rooted in legacy, love, and a bold determination to take up space in spaces that often don't expect her sound. A classical fusion and opera artist, Christina has carved out her own lane in Toronto’s music scene, blending genres and storytelling in a way that’s uniquely hers.
“I started when I was actually about two years old,” she recalled. “My mom would play a lot of classical music in the apartment, and one day we were on the bus and people thought I was screaming, but I was actually matching the pitches I heard on the radio.” From that moment, it was clear Christina’s voice was destined for something greater.
Her upbringing in a musically-inclined Jamaican family, and a pivotal year spent living in Jamaica, heavily shaped her artistry. “Living in Jamaica gave me a grounding that I don't know if I would have had just living in Canada,” she said. “Everything was a celebration in song and dance.”
Christina’s career is full of bold moves, from surprising a grade four class with a spontaneous Rihanna solo to starring in Bring It On: The Musical in Regina. But one of her most impactful platforms has been Honey Jam.
The all-female music showcase gave Christina her first major artist development experience outside of an institution. “Honey Jam was definitely a stepping stone for me,” she said. “It gave me a picture of what the industry is really like, and a community of women who uplift each other.”
Her first audition in 2018 didn’t land her a spot, but in 2019 she came back with an opera piece, and made it in. “I said, actually, let’s try doing what feels right,” she explained. That authenticity led to a performance that she dedicated to her vocal coach, Carol Hasek.
Now, Christina is gearing up for a powerful return to the Honey Jam stage as part of its 30th anniversary concert on July 30 at Massey Hall. “All of the artists who are performing are alum, and we’re doing tributes to the artists who inspired us,” she shared. “There’s going to be so many different genres, there’s even a bit of Soca in there.”
Christina won’t reveal exactly what she’s performing, but promises it’s a tribute filled with meaning. “Thirty years of Honey Jam doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the legacy of people who said yes to supporting young women.”
Off-stage, Christina is just as passionate about encouraging other creatives. “Pigeon holes are for pigeons,” she said. “Get out of your comfort zone. Don’t let people limit you to what they see or hear—be all the things you are, unapologetically.”
Through every note she sings and every story she tells, Christina is carrying forward the voices of women—mothers, immigrants, and unsung heroes—who have taught her resilience and courage. “Art imitates reality, and reality imitates art,” she reflected. “We show what it’s like to be human through the work we do, and that’s the biggest blessing we can give to anyone.”
Don’t miss Christina Smith and other talented Honey Jam alumni at Massey Hall on July 30. Tickets are just $30 to celebrate 30 years of uplifting female artists. Doors open at 7:30 PM.
Follow Christina on Instagram: @christinasmithto for music, performance updates, and more.