By: Ethan Rogers
Are you a fan of Bon Jovi’s powerful anthems, Sam Smith’s emotional ballads, Adam Lambert’s theatrical flair, or Michael Jackson’s electrifying performances? Now, imagine wrapping all of those into one artist. Meet Steve Major, the Hungarian-Canadian powerhouse who’s bringing pop, rock, and musical theatre together in a way that has captivated audiences worldwide.
But his story isn’t just about his unique sound—it’s about taking bold steps, embracing his roots, and collaborating with one of Hungary’s biggest stars, Milán Valkusz of the chart-topping duo VALMAR. Together, they’re working on a new track set to release this year, one that aims to connect audiences across continents.
Steve Major’s journey in music began when he was just four years old, belting out “Do-Re-Mi” from The Sound of Music around their house. From those humble beginnings, his career grew into something extraordinary. By the age of 10, he was performing in a Canadian youth troupe, and by 11, he landed his first professional role as Kurt in The Sound of Music.
Steve’s love for music and theatre continued to flourish through his teenage years at the well-known Etobicoke School of the Arts, where he majored in musical theatre. It wasn’t long before his powerful, gritty voice caught the attention of Sony Music Canada. His first professional studio experience resulted in a full-length album and set the stage for a career filled with exploration and evolution.
Photo Courtesy: Steve Major
As a young adult, Steve honed his craft by performing in professional theatre productions like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Rent, as well as releasing internationally acclaimed albums with DEP/Universal Music. Then, in 2017, he took his talent to the seas, performing as a principal male vocalist on luxury cruise ships, captivating audiences from Asia to Europe.
Although Steve’s career took him around the globe, one part of his identity remained unexplored—his Hungarian heritage. His father fled Budapest during the 1956 revolution, and while Steve grew up in Canada, he always felt the pull to connect with his roots. Recently, he acquired Hungarian citizenship and made the journey back to Budapest, a decision that would change the trajectory of his career.
Soon after arriving, Steve landed an opportunity to compete on Hungary’s version of The X Factor. In true Steve Major fashion, he took the stage and blew the mentors away with a stunning rendition of Queen’s “The Show Must Go On.” Milán Valkusz, one of the show’s mentors and a member of VALMAR, immediately recognized Steve’s raw talent and dynamic stage presence. Milán became not just a mentor but a champion of Steve’s abilities, guiding him through the competition.
Despite language barriers—Steve doesn’t speak fluent Hungarian—he connected with the audience and judges alike. He advanced to the live shows, where he wowed fans with Aerosmith’s “Dream On” and continued to solidify his place as a global talent. Though he didn’t win the competition, his time on The X Factor Hungary opened doors he never imagined. Most importantly, it brought him and Milán Valkusz together, setting the stage for their upcoming collaboration.
Photo Courtesy: Steve Major
Milán Valkusz, half of Hungary’s wildly popular pop duo VALMAR, is no stranger to success. Since 2018, VALMAR has dominated the Hungarian charts with hits that blend youthful energy, emotional lyrics, and irresistible melodies. With millions of fans and chart-topping singles like “Úristen” and “Valencia,” Milán’s musical expertise perfectly complements Steve’s unique blend of pop-rock-theatre.
Photo Courtesy: Balint Kovacs / Steve Major
The pair first connected during The X Factor, but their mutual respect for each other’s artistry quickly evolved into a full-fledged collaboration. After the show wrapped, Steve and Milán hit the studio to begin working on a track that blends their distinct styles. Described as “emotional and high-energy,” the single is poised to captivate fans in both Hungary and Canada—and beyond.
“Working with Milan has been incredible,” Steve shared. “He has such a clear vision, and I think our styles complement each other in a way that will surprise people. We’re putting our hearts into this project.” The forthcoming track, slated for release soon, is already generating buzz. Fans of VALMAR are eager to see how Milán’s pop expertise meshes with Steve’s theatrical edge, and Steve’s growing European fanbase is excited to hear what’s next after his successful single “Torn,” which brought attention to the crisis in Ukraine.
All eyes are on the upcoming single. With Steve Major’s powerful vocals and Milán Valkusz’s hit-making sensibilities, the track is shaping up to be one of the exciting collaborations of the year.
Published by Jeremy S.
