It’s official that Dan Kanter, widely recognized as Justin Bieber’s lead guitarist and musical director, has joined the judging panel for season 7 of YTV’s popular Canadian talent show THE NEXT STAR. Kanter’s behind the scenes influence includes co-producing two Bieber albums and co-writing the song Be Alright on the Believe project. He will join Tara Oram and Mark Spicoluk at the judges table as they prepare to tour across Canada in search of the country’s next star, offering a fresh set of eyes and seasoned expertise to aspiring performers.
The press tour for this season hints at a broader scope for the show, with a focus on discovering authentic musical presence and stage command across the country. The interview discussions reveal Kanter’s mindset as a judge who values musical curiosity, versatility, and a genuine love for performance that can light up a room. He brings a breadth of experience from stage to studio, and he is ready to help ambitious singers grow through constructive feedback and honest appraisal.
As a new judge, Kanter looks for contestants who carry magnetic enthusiasm, natural charisma, and a deep passion for music that resonates with audiences. The combination of his talents as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter makes him uniquely positioned to understand what it takes to stand out in a crowded field. His critiques aim to be candid and supportive, focusing on turning raw talent into real artistry and helping performers sharpen their strengths while addressing areas for improvement.
Justin Bieber’s fans might be surprised to learn about his broader musical taste. Kanter notes that Bieber harbors a serious appreciation for hard rock, a preference that stems from family influences. The artist who often performs pop classics can also belt out metal and hard rock with familiarity, alongside the more familiar rhythm and soul of mainstream hits. In one memorable moment during a Bali retreat, Bieber cooked breakfast for a friend and collaborator, a simple reminder of his down‑to‑earth side beyond the bright lights of the tour. This anecdote underscores the varied facets of a performer who can switch from a high‑octane show to a calm, caring moment offstage.
For those who aren’t Beliebers, Kanter emphasizes that Bieber’s breadth as an artist is part of what makes him compelling live. Bieber plays multiple instruments, sings, writes songs, and moves with a performance energy that leaves a lasting impression on audiences. Kanter has seen firsthand how audiences react when a show feels authentic and unforced, and he aims to help Next Star contestants bring that same sense of immediacy to the stage.
Two moments stand out from Kanter’s touring history. Openings for large tours, like the UK trek with Fefe Dobson, marked the first time he performed before arena crowds, a milestone that connected youthful aspirations with a lived reality on a grand stage. Earlier on, his high school band treated every gig as if it were a sold‑out venue, a mindset that fueled his long‑standing belief in the importance of approaching auditions and performances with the same intensity and professionalism. Bieber’s tours produced a rare kind of energy from devoted fans, with moments on the road feeling almost seismic in their intensity. The sheer dedication of Beliebers underscored the responsibility that comes with performing in front of a global audience.
Returning to Toronto, Kanter feels a special thrill at performing in his hometown while on tour with Bieber. Seeing fans he recognizes from local haunts waiting outside familiar venues adds a personal layer to the experience and reinforces the importance of staying connected to one’s roots while chasing bigger stages.
Education remains a central theme in Kanter’s career. He is pursuing a Master’s degree in Musicology, a path that he describes as essential for understanding music not just as performance but as an interdisciplinary art form. York University’s program is noted for its collaborative environment, blending music analysis with working alongside dancers and film students. This background informs his approach to big‑scale pop shows, where music, choreography, wardrobe, and stage design must align to tell a cohesive story.
Canadian auditions for season 7 start in the spring, and Kanter encourages aspiring performers to come prepared. He advises contestants to rehearse intensely, to perform exactly what they practice, and to bring a fearless, standout choice to the audition room. The message is clear: rehearse with purpose, perform with confidence, and dare to be different while staying true to one’s musical voice.
Dan Kanter’s journey from a hometown musician to a seasoned industry professional informs his perspective as a judge. He believes in honest feedback that motivates growth, balanced with encouragement that helps young artists believe in themselves. His track record with Justin Bieber and as a collaborator across different musical disciplines gives him a practical, real‑world lens on what it takes to turn talent into a lasting career. As season 7 of THE NEXT STAR unfolds, Kanter brings both a proven track record and an energetic, mentoring spirit to the show, aiming to uncover the next generation of Canadian talent and perhaps inspire a new wave of performers across North America.
Citations: industry interviews and performance history are documented broadly in entertainment coverage within music trade outlets and national arts media.