American hip-hop artist, actor, and political activist Killer Mike is set to perform at the Calgary Folk Music Festival on Sunday, July 26. The Grammy-winning rapper, known for his work with Run the Jewels, will take the main stage at Prince's Island Park.
Replacement for The Psychedelic Furs
Killer Mike, born Michael Render, was announced as a replacement for British new wave band The Psychedelic Furs, who canceled their appearance due to a serious medical issue. The band announced the cancellation earlier this month via Instagram.
Sunday Main Stage Lineup
The Sunday main stage schedule also includes Foxwarren, Adrian Quesada's Trio Asesino, and Alberta singer-songwriter Corb Lund. Other headliners throughout the festival include Valerie June, Of Monsters and Men, Thundercat, Goldie Boutilier, and Marty Stuart.
Killer Mike's Career Highlights
Killer Mike's music career began in the mid-1990s, gaining fame after appearing on Outkast's 2000 album Stankonia. He has collaborated with Jay-Z, Big Boi, T.I., and Black Thought. He has six Grammy nominations and four wins, including Best Rap Album for Michael in 2024.
In 2013, he formed the superduo Run the Jewels with Brooklyn rapper El-P, described by Rolling Stone as "hip-hop's most intense truth-tellers." His song "Headphones" was nominated for a 2026 Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.
Activism and Other Ventures
Beyond music, Killer Mike has acted in films like Baby Driver and ATL, and voiced in the 2021 Netflix film America: The Motion Picture. He campaigned for Senator Bernie Sanders, co-founded Greenwood Bank to serve Black and Latinx communities, and speaks out against police brutality, racism, and economic inequality.
The Calgary Folk Music Festival runs from July 23 to 26. For tickets and information, visit calgaryfolkfest.com.
