Following a short stint as The Axis Club, Toronto’s iconic music venue is returning to its legendary roots as The Mod Club. Revered for its pivotal role in the city’s music and nightlife culture, the venue is reviving the energy that once made it one of Toronto’s most beloved performance spaces. With a renewed focus and a fresh slate of concerts and events, this cultural landmark is back—and it’s better than ever.
Originally located in the heart of Little Italy, The Mod Club was founded by Platinum Blonde’s Mark Holmes and Bobbi Guy. What began as a series of vibrant, 1960s UK-inspired “Mod Club” nights soon evolved into a full-fledged movement. In 2002, the venue found a permanent home at 722 College Street, quickly establishing itself as a staple in Toronto’s live music landscape.
Over the next two decades, it hosted an impressive roster of local and international talent including The Weeknd, Amy Winehouse, Muse, Katy Perry, and John Mayer. Its intimate layout and unmistakable vibe helped foster emerging talent and cement legendary performances.
In 2020, The Mod Club closed its doors, rebranding as The Axis Club in 2021. Despite the change, longtime owner Manuel DaCosta stayed committed to the venue’s evolution. In 2023, he partnered with Live Nation Canada to enhance the fan and artist experience while preserving the space’s historic legacy.
“We are excited to be a part of The Mod Club’s return,” says DaCosta. “This venue has always held a special place in Toronto’s heart, and we’re thrilled to usher in its next chapter.”
To celebrate, GRAMMY Award-winning artist Daniel Caesar will take the stage for an exclusive acoustic set on June 14, presented by Billboard Canada x NXNE. Caesar, who made his debut at The Mod Club in 2016, returns to where his meteoric rise began.
“I’m really glad to be coming back to The Mod Club,” says Caesar. “That place will always have a special place in my heart.”
With a rich past and a bold new vision, The Mod Club is once again set to shape the future of live music in Toronto.
