Canadian children’s musician Chris McKhool has released “Animal Samba,” the lead single from his upcoming album ‘Global Dance Party!,’ due November 6. The track, built around samba rhythms and flamenco-style percussion, was produced by McKhool, Kevin Laliberté and engineer John “Beetle” Bailey, and mixed in Dolby Atmos. Contributors include Saskia Tomkins on cello, Drew Birston on bass and a horn section featuring Doug Banwell, Kevin Turcotte and William Carn.
The release follows a JUNO nomination for McKhool’s 2025 album ‘Little Leaf’ in the Children’s Album of the Year category, his second JUNO nod after an earlier nomination for ‘FiddleFire!’ McKhool, a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal recipient and multiple Canadian Folk Music Award winner, has performed for more than a million children across North America, according to the announcement, and has appeared on programs including Mr. Dressup and CBC.
‘Global Dance Party!’ will roll out with additional singles, “Party in the Street” and “On Halloween,” ahead of its full release. McKhool is touring Ontario and Alberta this fall, with stops in North York, Burlington, Toronto, Canmore and Mississauga, including a Halloween-themed release celebration in Toronto on October 30.
Based on a press release provided to Music Industry Weekly by Eric Alper, thatericalper.com.