He sends her songs, she gives direct feedback: How Katy Perry supports Trudeau’s son Xav at the start of his music career.
18-year-old Xavier “Xav” Trudeau is working on his own music career and is increasingly coming into the public eye. As the son of the former Canadian Prime Minister, his name is already familiar to many. That his father was with him Katy Perry is also proving to be practical for his musical development: she is currently accompanying him as a mentor.
Xav provided the most detailed insights to date in the podcast show “Can’t Be Censored”. It will be moderated by Canadian journalists Travis Dhanraj and Karman Wong. There he spoke candidly about music, publicity and Perry’s role in his creative process. “If I’m really happy with a song, I send it to her,” he explains. “She is always open and honest and tells me what I should change.”
The tone seems surprisingly sober for a constellation that could hardly be more extraordinary. Perry’s feedback seems to have long been part of his everyday life – less of a celebrity moment, more of a working relationship.
Who is Xav – and what does he do musically?
Xav, real name Xavier James Trudeau, has been performing under his stage name since 2025. Stylistically, he moves in contemporary R&B with influences from trap and alternative pop. His previous releases such as “Til The Nights Done” and “Back Me Up” rely on atmospheric productions, reduced beats and a melancholic mood. The politician’s son clearly takes his cues from artists like Drake and Don Toliver.
He writes, co-produces and is signed to a Canadian indie label. The first releases have given him media visibility – but a commercial breakthrough is still pending.
The content of his songs revolves around self-discovery, relationships and growing up in the public eye. He conveys these themes with a deliberately reserved, sometimes almost fragile vocal performance.
Mentor Katy Perry
In the podcast, Xav paints a clear picture of Perry’s role: not an exaggerated star figure, but a direct, pragmatic contact person. “She’s super nice. Super down to earth,” he says.
The fact that this dynamic works is apparently also linked to the family situation. He emphasizes several times that what matters most to him is “that my father is happy.” The downside of this constellation is the constant media attention. He describes his life as “sometimes so crazy” – and adds “What is my life?” added.
While many young artists fight for visibility, Xav has to learn to control it.
