Music/Features

Beloved Hamilton rockers Arkells are this year’s recipients of the Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour, given to artists who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

The band’s members — which include Max Kerman, Mike De Angelis, Anthony Carone, Nick Dika and Tim Oxford — are being honoured for their extensive work in their community. Notably, turning their Rally summer concert in hometown Hamilton into a fundraiser for local housing and a community-building event.

This year’s Rally included the opening of the Rally Court basketball court in Hamilton’s ward three neighbourhood, also supported by Raptors coach and Arkells mega-fan Nick Nurse.

The band donated a dollar per ticket from the Rally show as well as their entire tour. The band also worked to support local music programs in the Hamilton area.

“When I think of Arkells, I think of unity, community, heart and sheer talent,” said Gary Slaight, president and CEO of the Slaight Family Foundation. “They lead with compassion and integrity and epitomize the values that my late father, Allan, had in mind for this special honour. They are an inspiration and deserving of this recognition.”

Previous recipients of the Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour include: Alessia Cara, Shawn Mendes, The Weeknd, Serena Ryder.

The band will receive the award at the Canadian Walk of Fame Gala. Gala details to be announced shortly, though the event is usually held at the end of November or in early December.