Lost brings Japanese stoicism to Francos stage Saturday

Montreal rapper Lost takes the stage at MTelus on Saturday, June 20, with a show that traces his creative journey from Cartierville to Japan and back again, centred on his new album GAMAN—a concept rooted in Japanese philosophy.

Lost's fascination with Japan crystallized during a 2024 trip to film a music video for his track OT. He spent time in museums, met a direct descendant of samurai who taught him about different sword styles, and threw shurikens. "I was really immersed in Japanese culture, which I already loved," he explained.

During that journey, Lost discovered gaman—a principle centred on self-mastery and resilience in the face of adversity. The concept resonated deeply with his own worldview and his personal history. "It's a concept that already aligned with how I think, with my mentality," the 32-year-old artist of Cameroonian descent said. "Culturally, there are connections. I've seen my parents in situations of precarity but never complaining."

He sees gaman as particularly relevant in turbulent times. "With all the chaos happening right now, it's good that artists express their ways of overcoming obstacles. Even if everyone doesn't adopt stoicism, the most important thing is to spark curiosity in the listener."

The album aims to "speak to multiple generations," he said. "When I was younger, I listened to albums I didn't truly understand until years later. I wrote an album that can last over time, much more personal, touching on broader subjects."

On stage, Lost initially envisioned performers in red masks playing with shadows inspired by Japanese theatre, but logistics and budget constraints led him to embrace simplicity—a choice that actually reflects gaman's philosophy. He promises a captivating show with surprise guests, likely including members of his crew 5Sang14, plus openers Fléau Dicaprio and Zayo, a young neighbourhood artist Lost is championing.