The Celtic Tenors Welcome George Hutton to the Trio.

 

The Celtic Tenors Welcome George Hutton to the Trio, Ushering in New Lineup and Booking Agency + Canadian Tour Ahead

https://celtic-tenors.com/

https://lnk.to/ctenorssocials

https://lnk.to/TCTdsps

https://www.youtube.com/@ctenors

 

After more than 25 years of captivating audiences around the world, The Celtic Tenors are turning the page to an exciting new chapter in their storied journey. The internationally acclaimed vocal trio proudly welcomes celebrated Derry-born tenor George Hutton, who joins founding member Matthew Gilsenan and long-time member Daryl Simpson. Together, they bring a renewed spirit, fresh harmonies, and vibrant energy to the beloved group.

 

Rooted in Ireland and cherished across the globe, The Celtic Tenors have always embodied a musical brotherhood. With Hutton stepping in for the cherished James Nelson, the trio now reflects a rich harmony of Ulster and Leinster—uniting Simpson (Tyrone), Gilsenan (Meath), and Hutton (Derry) in a lineup that honors both tradition and transformation.

 

After a quarter century of touring the world James Nelson has chosen to retire, leaving a remarkable legacy of music, laughter, and heart. As a founding member, his voice and presence helped define the soul of The Celtic Tenors. His warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication touched audiences everywhere and inspired fellow artists alike. Though he now takes a well-earned bow, his influence will continue to resonate in every performance yet to come.

 

It’s a privilege to welcome George. His energy, artistry, and deep Celtic roots bring new color to our harmony and promise an exciting future for The Celtic Tenors,” says Matthew Gilsenan.

 

The group offers its heartfelt thanks to James Nelson for decades of excellence and dedication and now looks ahead with excitement.

 

To be stepping into the shoes of James Nelson—they’re big shoes to fill, but what an honor. I am so grateful for this opportunity and excited to carry on the group’s legacy with Daryl and Matthew,” says George Hutton

 

Whether heartfelt or high-spirited, The Celtic Tenors are ready for what comes next.

 

Music has always been about bringing people together. With George joining the trio, we’re embracing a new era for The Celtic Tenors—one filled with fresh harmonies, renewed energy, and a continued passion for sharing Ireland’s music with the world,” says Daryl Simpson.

 

“We’ve always believed in mixing world-class music with a good bit of fun, and George fits right in. It’s an exciting time for The Celtic Tenors—our voices, our stories, and our laughter are ready for this next adventure,” says Daryl Simpson.

 

Since launching in 1999, The Celtic Tenors have reimagined vocal music through a fusion of classical, folk, pop, opera, and traditional Celtic stylings. With over a million albums sold and a global touring legacy, they’ve performed for world leaders, sold out venues across multiple continents, and topped charts in North America, Europe, and beyond.

 

Mentored by iconic Irish songwriter and producer Phil Coulter, the trio continues to evolve while staying rooted in the spirit of their homeland.

 

The lineup refresh comes at a moment of momentum. The group recently signed with The Feldman Agency for North American representation and are set to return this winter with their fan-favorite holiday show The Celtic Christmas, including a major performance with the Vancouver Island Symphony and more dates to be announced soon.

The trio’s first major projects together will include a brand-new PBS television special and a special performance celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Irish in Peterborough, Ontario. The Celtic Tenors are available through Slammin Media, with global distribution via Believe.

 

Still proudly based in Ireland, The Celtic Tenors continue to share the power and playfulness of Irish music with audiences across the world.

 

The Celtic Tenors Tour Dates:

August 2, 2026 — Yougal, Ireland

August 9, 2025 — Peterborough Music Festival, Del Crary Park

August 12, 2025 — Gravenhurst, Ontario, Wenonah II Muskoka Steamship Cruise

November 29, 2025 — Nanaimo, British Columbia, Port Theatre

December 2, 2025 — Surrey, British Columbia, Bell Performing Arts Centre

December 9, 2025 — Ottawa, Ontario, Shenkman Arts Centre

December 11, 2026 — Brantford, Ontario, The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts

February 19, 2026 — Medicine Hat, Alberta, Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre

February 20, 2026 — Camrose, Alberta, Jeanne & Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre

February 21, 2026 — Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Dow Centennial Centre Shell Theatre

February 22, 2026 — Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, E.A. Rawlinson Centre For The Arts

March 5, 2026 — Burlington, Ontario, The Burlington Performing Arts Centre

 

Contact Information

North American Booking:
Jordan Powley, The Feldman Agency
jordan@feldman-agency.com

Management:
Richard Mills, Global Creative Partners
rmillsglobal@gmail.com

Label:
Bruce Bradley, Slammin Media
bruce.bradley@slamminmedia.ca

2025 ECMA Winning Children’s Music Artist, Heather Feather, Announces Album 'Together'

 

 

 2025 

ECMA Winning Children’s Music Artist, Heather Feather, Announces 

Social-Emotional Development Focused New Album, 'Together'

Holding a PhD in Music Theory from McGill, Heather Feather’s sophomore album delivers lessons inspired by inclusion, rooted in academic theory 

“Appealing to kids intelligence” - CBC Radio

Release Date: June 27 2025

 Backed by Grammy-recognized collaborators, built with rigorous academic insight, and shaped by her experience with Multiple SclerosisCanadian children's artist, Heather Feather, is pleased to announce her second studio album, Together, out on June 27 2025.


The 2025 East Coast Music Award “Children’s Artist of the Year,” recipient holds a PhD in Music Theory from McGill, Bachelor of Music from Memorial University, and is a fearless disability advocate, recently partnering with international advocacy group, RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities). Redefining what children’s music can be, Heather's new album delivers emotionally rich and developmentally grounded music that empowers young listeners with empathy, inclusion, and self-awareness.

Her music has been described by CBC as “appealing to kids’ intelligence", and has been featured on TV and radio stations across the country.

 

Montreal, QC – June 17 2025 - Award-Winning Canadian Children’s artist, Heather Feather, has announced the release of her second studio album, Together, set for release on Friday, June 27 2025.




Heather Feather’s sophomore album, Together, combines a lifetime of academics, world-class musicianship, and social-emotional concepts designed to resonate with children of all ages. Backed by her PhD in Music Theory from McGill University and joined by Grammy and Latin Grammy Award winning collaborators, Heather delivers “Kindie” music, kid-friendly indie music, that elevates the genre with rich arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and academically driven developmental purpose. Her songs are both engaging and educational, offering families and educators tools to nurture empathy, inclusion, and self-awareness through music.

A two-time East Coast Music Award nominee, Heather Feather was awarded the 2025 ECMA for “Children’s Artist of the Year.” Her debut album, Songs For Growing, also received a MusicNL nomination for “Jazz Album of the Year” and international recognition, including Third Place at Canada’s People’s Choice Awards and Global Album of the Year at the 2022 Funky Kids Radio Awards. Heather’s work has been featured on CBC News, CBC Radio, CKUT Radio, and was recently added to the CBC Kids Music Playlist. Beyond performance, Heather is a passionate advocate for accessibility in the arts. As a member of RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities), she draws on her lived experience with multiple sclerosis to champion inclusive practices across the industry. She recently spoke at Folk Alliance International on disability culture and the vital role of representation in music. Heather also serves on the leadership board of the Children’s Music Network, and is a sought-after educator and performer at schools, libraries, and festivals across Canada and the U.S. Recently signing with Prologue Performing Arts, Heather will be taking her newest album on the road as a Teaching Artist in K-6 classrooms across Toronto in early 2026.

Focused on social and emotional development, Heather Feather’s sophomore album, Together, explores concepts in development in a direct and creative manner that is clear and accessible for young listeners. With straightforward lyrics and thoughtfully crafted melodies, the album emphasizes empathy, inclusion, and real-life experiences such as being left out, celebrating others, and learning how to belong. Drawing on her academic training and musical fluency in Folk, Jazz, and Indie genres, Heather designed the songs to align with both a child’s cognitive development and emotional world. “I wanted to encourage conversations about what inclusion really means,” Heather shares. “So many kids experience these feelings, but they’re not often talked about in music, and that’s what I wanted to change.” The album is produced by Grammy and Latin Grammy winner Dean Jones.






The albums’ lead single, “A Fishy Tale”, introduces a playful lesson about not judging others by appearances. Set in an underwater game of hide-and-seek, the song unfolds like a fable, complete with suspense, plot twists, and a joyful message of unity. A lively blend of Jazz and Blues with a bouncy bassline and hand snaps, it’s accompanied by a whimsical, hand-drawn animated video that invites counting and curiosity.

Other standout tracks include “Fill Your Bucket”, inspired by Carol McCloud’s social-emotional book series. Blending Swing, Folk, and Pop, the song encourages kindness and teaches children that they can protect their own happiness by being kind to others. “Happy for You” delivers a joyful, 60s-style groove that explores the importance of empathy and celebrating others' successes, an often overlooked yet essential social skill. Meanwhile, “Include Me”, featuring children’s music icons Suzi Shelton and Kim Noller, offers a heartfelt plea for inclusion from the perspective of a child who has been left out, along with actionable ideas for creating belonging.

Across ten thoughtfully composed tracks, Together delivers developmentally appropriate, emotionally resonant songs rooted in music theory and lived experience. With its balance of sophistication and singability, the album provides children with the tools they need to understand their feelings, navigate relationships, and embrace inclusion through lessons that are direct and purposeful. Backed by world-class musicianship and academic insight, Together redefines what children’s music can be: intelligent, heartfelt, and genuinely transformative.

                                                                           

                                                                     Upcoming Shows:

 June 28, 2025 - Family Music Party - Beaconsfield, QC

August 9, 2025 - Fundy Sea Shanty Festival - St. Martins, NB

October 5, 2025 - Beaconsfield Public Library - Beaconsfield, QC

February 2026 - Prologue Arts School Tour - Toronto, ON


Together will be available everywhere on Friday, June 27 2025


Together was created with the generous support of Canada Council For The Arts



Connect with Heather Feather:

https://www.weejam.ca/heather-feather

https://www.instagram.com/heather_feather_childrensmusic/

https://www.facebook.com/HeatherFeatherChildrensMusic

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRuGIEvYHmAbEVLkqIP_7yg

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1jMBCFhL681WN0jNFnE2V5

  

The 55th JUNO Awards, Canada's biggest night in music, will be returning to Hamilton in 2026, marking the seventh time the city will host the event.


The JUNO Awards, March 29, 2026
55th Annual
Canada's biggest night in music, 
will be returning to Hamilton in 2026, 
marking the seventh time the city will host the event.


20th Annual Canadian Folk Festival 2025 Winners are:

 

  

The 20th milestone anniversary featured four nights of bilingual concerts and presentations in Ottawa/Gatineau, with a diverse mix of veterans and newcomers taking home trophies. Loryn Taggart and Lucy MacNeil won the most of this year's 21 awards.

The 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards (CFMA) WERE held in Ottawa/Gatineau, Ontario, from April 3-6, 2025. The CFMA celebrated the breadth and depth of Canadian folk music. The International Folk Music Awards were held on February 19, 2025, in Montréal, Canada, as part of the Folk Alliance International conference, and streamed on YouTube.

 Performer Lineup consisted of 


This year’s awards week celebration ran from April 3 to 6, 2025 and featured a series of bilingual concerts that spotlighted the diversity, creativity, and cultural importance of Canada’s folk music scene. Instead of just one awards show, each concert included several awards presentations.


2025 CFMA Awards Week Concert Lineup featured:


Songs & Stories Songwriter  Concert

        Date & Time: April 3, 2025 | 7:30 PM
        Venue: Canadian Museum of History
        About the Event: A celebration of Canada’s top folk songwriters, this intimate concert featured heartfelt stories woven through intricate melodies.
        Performers: Burnstick, Celeigh Cardinal, Geneviève Racette, Jeffery Straker, Michel Robichaud, Sandra Bouza

    Awards: Contemporary Singer, Indigenous Songwriter, New/Emerging Artist, French Songwriter, English Songwriter, Producer

20th Anniversary Gala Concert

    Date & Time: April 4, 2025 | 7:30 PM
    Venue: National Arts Centre
    About the Event: Celebrate 20 years of folk excellence with a grand gala concert showcasing some of the most celebrated names in Canadian folk music.
    Performers: Connie Kaldor, Indian City, Kiran Ahluwalia, Lucy MacNeil, Mia Kelly, Sirène et Matelot
    Awards: Pushing the Boundaries, Traditional Album, Contemporary Album, Ensemble, Single, Instrumental Group
 

Trad & Global Roots Concert


    Date & Time: April 5, 2025 | 7:30 PM
    Venue: Canadian Museum of History
    About the Event: Immerse yourself in the roots and rhythms of traditional folk and global roots music, where cultural traditions blended to create unforgettable performances.
    Performers: Bradley Murphy, Derina Harvey Band, Lemon Bucket Orkestra, Okavango African Orchestra, Prairie Comeau, The Andrew Collins Trio
    Awards: Traditional Singer, Global Roots Album, Solo Artist, Instrumental Solo Artist, Vocal Group, Instrumental Composer

Folk for Families Concert


    Date & Time: April 6, 2025 | 10:30 AM
    Venue: Canadian Museum of History
    About the Event: Perfect for music lovers of all ages, this family-friendly concert featured a fun-filled lineup by CFMA nominees.
    Performers: Abigail Lapell, Amelia Parker, Irish Millie, Will and Seeka
    Awards: Children’s Album, Young Performer
    Admission was free with museum entry or with a wristband


A week of exceptional music, inspiring performances, and engaging celebrations as we honour two decades of Canadian folk artistry.

About the Canadian Folk Music Awards:

Founded in 2005, the Canadian Folk Music Awards celebrate and promote the breadth and depth of Canadian folk music, embracing the many traditions that make up our musical heritage.

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of FACTOR, the Government of Canada and Canada’s private radio broadcasters.

The Canadian Folk Music Awards acknowledge the generous funding and support from Ottawa Tourism, The National Arts Centre, and the Canadian Museum of History. 

Visit: https://folkawards.ca/prix-awards

 2025 WINNERS WERE:

 21 awards were presented in 20 categories, and artists from every Canadian province, representing a wide range of folk, roots and world music styles, were featured. The two double winners were Montreal singer-songwriter Loryn Taggart and Lucy MacNeil. Montreal singer-songwriter Taggart won for solo artist of the year (for her album The Lost Art of Pulling Through) and single of the year, for "Tell Me How," and these victories confirm her impact on the national scene.

 

2025 CFMA Award Recipients by Province

ALBERTA

  • Celeigh Cardinal – Boundless Possibilities || Indigenous Songwriter(s) of the Year (tie)

SASKATCHEWAN

  • Jeffery Straker – Great Big Sky || Contemporary Singer of the Year

MANITOBA

  • Boy Golden – For Jimmy || Contemporary Album of the Year
  • Ruth Moody – Wanderer || English Songwriter(s) of the Year

ONTARIO

  • Abigail Lapell – Lullabies || Children’s Album of the Year
  • Alanna Jenish – Daleview || Instrumental Composer of the Year
  • Good Lovelies – We Will Never Be the Same || Vocal Group of the Year
  • Joshua Van Tassel, Christine Bougie (Good Lovelies) – We Will Never Be the Same || Producer of the Year
  • Kiran Ahluwalia – Comfort Food || Oliver Schroer Pushing the Boundaries Award
  • Maggie’s Wake – Maggie’s Wake || New/Emerging Artist of the Year
  • Mary Frances Leahy – First Light || Young Performer of the Year
  • Okavango African Orchestra – Migration || World Traditions Album of the Year
  • Tio Chorinho – Tempestuoso || Instrumental Group of the Year

QUÉBEC

  • Alexandre Poulin – La somme des êtres aimés || French Songwriter(s) of the Year
  • Jeremie Groleau – Uphill || Solo Instrumentalist of the Year
  • Loryn Taggart – Tell Me How || Single of the Year
  • Loryn Taggart – The Lost Art of Pulling Through || Solo Artist of the Year

NOVA SCOTIA

  • Alan Syliboy & The Thundermakers – Marks on the Ground || Indigenous Songwriter(s) of the Year (tie)
  • Lucy MacNeil – Angels Whisper || Stan Rogers Traditional Singer of the Year; Traditional Album of the Year

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

  • Rum Ragged – Gone Jiggin’ || Ensemble of the Year

 and 

20TH ANNUAL CANADIAN FOLK MUSIC AWARDS 2025.

  

Canadian Folk Music Awards Returns to ...

 

The 20th milestone anniversary featured four nights of bilingual concerts and presentations in Ottawa/Gatineau, with a diverse mix of veterans and newcomers taking home trophies. Loryn Taggart and Lucy MacNeil won the most of this year's 21 awards.

The 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards (CFMA) WERE held in Ottawa/Gatineau, Ontario, from April 3-6, 2025. The CFMA celebrated the breadth and depth of Canadian folk music. The International Folk Music Awards were held on February 19, 2025, in Montréal, Canada, as part of the Folk Alliance International conference, and streamed on YouTube.

 Performer Lineup consisted of 


This year’s awards week celebration ran from April 3 to 6, 2025 and featured a series of bilingual concerts that spotlighted the diversity, creativity, and cultural importance of Canada’s folk music scene. Instead of just one awards show, each concert included several awards presentations.


2025 CFMA Awards Week Concert Lineup featured:


Songs & Stories Songwriter  Concert

        Date & Time: April 3, 2025 | 7:30 PM
        Venue: Canadian Museum of History
        About the Event: A celebration of Canada’s top folk songwriters, this intimate concert featured heartfelt stories woven through intricate melodies.
        Performers: Burnstick, Celeigh Cardinal, Geneviève Racette, Jeffery Straker, Michel Robichaud, Sandra Bouza

    Awards: Contemporary Singer, Indigenous Songwriter, New/Emerging Artist, French Songwriter, English Songwriter, Producer

20th Anniversary Gala Concert

    Date & Time: April 4, 2025 | 7:30 PM
    Venue: National Arts Centre
    About the Event: Celebrate 20 years of folk excellence with a grand gala concert showcasing some of the most celebrated names in Canadian folk music.
    Performers: Connie Kaldor, Indian City, Kiran Ahluwalia, Lucy MacNeil, Mia Kelly, Sirène et Matelot
    Awards: Pushing the Boundaries, Traditional Album, Contemporary Album, Ensemble, Single, Instrumental Group
 

Trad & Global Roots Concert


    Date & Time: April 5, 2025 | 7:30 PM
    Venue: Canadian Museum of History
    About the Event: Immerse yourself in the roots and rhythms of traditional folk and global roots music, where cultural traditions blended to create unforgettable performances.
    Performers: Bradley Murphy, Derina Harvey Band, Lemon Bucket Orkestra, Okavango African Orchestra, Prairie Comeau, The Andrew Collins Trio
    Awards: Traditional Singer, Global Roots Album, Solo Artist, Instrumental Solo Artist, Vocal Group, Instrumental Composer

Folk for Families Concert


    Date & Time: April 6, 2025 | 10:30 AM
    Venue: Canadian Museum of History
    About the Event: Perfect for music lovers of all ages, this family-friendly concert featured a fun-filled lineup by CFMA nominees.
    Performers: Abigail Lapell, Amelia Parker, Irish Millie, Will and Seeka
    Awards: Children’s Album, Young Performer
    Admission was free with museum entry or with a wristband


A week of exceptional music, inspiring performances, and engaging celebrations as we honour two decades of Canadian folk artistry.

About the Canadian Folk Music Awards:

Founded in 2005, the Canadian Folk Music Awards celebrate and promote the breadth and depth of Canadian folk music, embracing the many traditions that make up our musical heritage.

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of FACTOR, the Government of Canada and Canada’s private radio broadcasters.

The Canadian Folk Music Awards acknowledge the generous funding and support from Ottawa Tourism, The National Arts Centre, and the Canadian Museum of History. 

Visit: https://folkawards.ca/prix-awards

 2025 WINNERS WERE:

 21 awards were presented in 20 categories, and artists from every Canadian province, representing a wide range of folk, roots and world music styles, were featured. The two double winners were Montreal singer-songwriter Loryn Taggart and Lucy MacNeil. Montreal singer-songwriter Taggart won for solo artist of the year (for her album The Lost Art of Pulling Through) and single of the year, for "Tell Me How," and these victories confirm her impact on the national scene.

 

2025 CFMA Award Recipients by Province

ALBERTA

  • Celeigh Cardinal – Boundless Possibilities || Indigenous Songwriter(s) of the Year (tie)

SASKATCHEWAN

  • Jeffery Straker – Great Big Sky || Contemporary Singer of the Year

MANITOBA

  • Boy Golden – For Jimmy || Contemporary Album of the Year
  • Ruth Moody – Wanderer || English Songwriter(s) of the Year

ONTARIO

  • Abigail Lapell – Lullabies || Children’s Album of the Year
  • Alanna Jenish – Daleview || Instrumental Composer of the Year
  • Good Lovelies – We Will Never Be the Same || Vocal Group of the Year
  • Joshua Van Tassel, Christine Bougie (Good Lovelies) – We Will Never Be the Same || Producer of the Year
  • Kiran Ahluwalia – Comfort Food || Oliver Schroer Pushing the Boundaries Award
  • Maggie’s Wake – Maggie’s Wake || New/Emerging Artist of the Year
  • Mary Frances Leahy – First Light || Young Performer of the Year
  • Okavango African Orchestra – Migration || World Traditions Album of the Year
  • Tio Chorinho – Tempestuoso || Instrumental Group of the Year

QUÉBEC

  • Alexandre Poulin – La somme des êtres aimés || French Songwriter(s) of the Year
  • Jeremie Groleau – Uphill || Solo Instrumentalist of the Year
  • Loryn Taggart – Tell Me How || Single of the Year
  • Loryn Taggart – The Lost Art of Pulling Through || Solo Artist of the Year

NOVA SCOTIA

  • Alan Syliboy & The Thundermakers – Marks on the Ground || Indigenous Songwriter(s) of the Year (tie)
  • Lucy MacNeil – Angels Whisper || Stan Rogers Traditional Singer of the Year; Traditional Album of the Year

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR

  • Rum Ragged – Gone Jiggin’ || Ensemble of the Year

 and 

The 2026 Canadian Folk Music Awards (CFMA) will be held in Calgary, Alberta. The event will take place from April 9-12, 2026, with venues including Bella Concert Hall, the National Music Centre and the Westin Calgary, which also serves as the host hotel

 Canadian Folk Music Awards / Prix de ...

The Canadian Folk Music Awards 2026 CFMA Submissions Now Open!

Early bird submissions open until June 12, 2025. Final submission deadline is July 15, 2025.

New Category for 2026! Album Artwork of the Year https://folkawards.ca/prix-awards/submission-form/

 
 

WINNERS OF 13th Annual 2025 CMAO Awards Country Music Association of Ontario

 

 

The Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAOntario) wass proud to announce the first wave of performers for the CMAOntario Festival & Awards Weekend presented by Cowbell Brewing Co. from May 30-June 1, 2025 in Hamilton. In addition to the 13thAnnual CMAOntario Awards Show, CMAOntario Festival & Awards Weekend included Songs & Stories: Songwriters in the Round, Bonfire, two open stages, and the R2i TuneUp Conference. 


On Saturday, May 31 the CMAOntario Festival & Awards Weekend presented the Bonfire concert at The Music Hall featuring Ontario’s hottest new music with rising stars and CMAOntario nominees with an evening concert filled with performances by Sacha, Alexa Goldie, Carson Janik, Dayna Reid, and Drew Taylor.

Jason McCoy of The Road Hammers and Pure Country Radio hosted the 13thAnnual CMAOntario Awards Show, presented by Cowbell Brewing Co., which took place on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at The Music Hall. McCoy has hosted the CMAOntario Awards Show every year since 2014, stewarding the ship of history making award presentations and performances by Ontario’s country music industry with a brand of unbridled enthusiasm and humour only he could provide.

The CMAOntario Awards Show included exciting performances by: Andrew Hyatt nominated for four CMAOntario Awards this year; Sacha, nominated for three CMAOntario Awards; Nate Haller, Robyn Ottolini, and Mackenzie Leigh Meyer, who were nominated for two CMAOntario Awards each; Amanda & James, first time nominees for Group or Duo of the Year; Alexa Goldie, nominated for Breakthrough Artist of the Year; Mitch Jean, first time nominee for Francophone Artist or Group of the Year;  and the CMAOntario house band, The Western Swing Authority, who were up for two CMAOntario Awards this year!


Music fans casted their votes for the CMAOntario Fans’ Choice Award, sponsored by Tourism Hamilton, with the 2025 nominees being Josh Ross, Owen Riegling, Sacha, Steven Lee Olsen, Tebey, and The Reklaws and the WINNER WAS:  

2025 CMAOntario Festival and Awards
presented by Cowbell Brewing Co.

Thurs May 29, 2025 Dave Woods with 'This Rounds on Me' at Stonewalls 730-10 with artists:

 
 
 Friday May 30 Songs and Stories at Textile Bldg Floor 3 at 8-930

Friday May 30 Open Stage Textile Bldg Floor 3 at 10-12  

 

Saturday May 31 R2i Conference Textile Bldg Floor 3 at 9-3pm

Saturday May 31 Harmonia Interactive Songwriter Textile Bld Floor 3 at 3-430pm  

Saturday May 31 Bonfire Stage - Music Hall from 7-10pm

Saturday May 31 Open Stage - Music Hall from 10pm -12am 

 

 Sunday June 1     R2i Conference at Textile Bldg Floor 3 from 9-230pm 

Sunday June 1st  Dave Woods and 'This Rounds on Me' Stonwalls from 2-430pm


and 

Sunday June 1st  13th Annual CMAO Awards at The Music Hall from 7-930pm

After party June 1st 10pm -12am 

 

 CONGRATS to artist, Owen Riegling who took home 5 trophies.

A SPECIAL CONGRATS to Peterborough's Elyse Saunders on her many nominations this year and her win for Video of the Year with her hit 'Never Have I Ever' 

and 

Kudos to my childhood friend from Bracebridge, Deric Ruttan on being nominated for 3 Ontario Country Music awards - Producer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year on “Still Make Cowgirls” by Karli June, and received a 3rd nomination for Songwriter of the Year co-writing “Quits” by Tim Hicks.  

Deric is already a three-time Songwriter of the Year winner having written songs for many other artists like Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton and Jason Aldean.  From the Muskoka Youth Choir, to Bracebridge Muskoka Lakes Secondary School Music Class to Bracebridge Albion Hotel to bands like Bad Moons, to London Fanshawe College for Music to Nashville including the Grand Ole Opry, and the rest they say is MUSIC INDUSTRY HISTORY.....one of the top writers in Country music world-wide.  Keep on making your magic DR!

 

The WINNERS of the 13th Annual CMAOntario Awards are:

SINGLE OF THE YEAR sponsored by Pure Country 

Blinding Lights (Country Version): Tebey

Finding Firsts: Andrew Hyatt'

Hey Mom I Made It: Sacha

Moonshines: Owen Riegling

Never Have I Ever: Elyse Saunders

Race To The Bottom: Nate Haller

 

ALBUM/EP OF THE YEAR sponsored by Country 106.7

Break Up Rules: Paige Rutledge

Bruce County: - From the Beginning - Owen Riegling 

Golden Child: Meghan Patrick

Growing up to Do: Robyn Ottolini

L Is For: Andrew Hyatt

Pathways: Julian Taylor

  

SONGWRITER(S) OF THE YEAR

Chrystal Oudijk, Douglas Romanow, Nicole Rayy: Guilty

Elyse Saunders, Jason Blaine: Never Have I Ever

Karli June, Deric Ruttan: Still Make Cowgirls

Owen Riegling, Daryl Scott, Jesse Slack: Moonshines

Tebey, G. Palmer, S. Walker, D. Dupelle: Hangover at My Place

Tim Hicks, Deric Ruttan, Monty Criswell: Quits

 

 

FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by IBEW Local 353

Dayna Reid

Elyse Saunders

Jessie T

Karli June

Robyn Ottolini

Sacha

 

 

MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by IBEW Local 353

Andrew Hyatt

Brian John Harwood

Nate Haller

Owen Riegling

Ryan Langdon

Tim Hicks

 

 

GROUP OR DUO OF THE YEAR sponsored by CHAW Country 103

Amanda and James

New Moon Junction

River Town Saints

Rosewood Ave

The Redhill Valleys

The Western Swing Authority

 

 

RECORD PRODUCER(S) OF THE YEAR

Adam Newcomb: Sacha, Elyse Saunders, Riley Taylor

Deric Ruttan: Karli June – Still Make Cowgirls

Douglas Romanow: Nicole Rayy – Guilty

Matthew Koebel: Jessie T, Paige Rutledge, Jessica Sole

Shawn Moore: Spencer Burns, Bradley Hale, Brothers Wilde, Tim Albertson

The Agenda: Angelica Appelman, David Madras, Kasey Nugent, Patrick James Clark, Peter Peres

 

 

ROOTS ARTIST OR GROUP OF THE YEAR

Callie McCullough

Emily Clair

Julian Taylor

Mackenzie Leigh Meyer

The Redhill Valleys

The Western Swing Authority

 

 

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR sponsored by C to C Music Insider

Alexa Goldie

Dayna Reid

Olivia Mae Graham

Paige Rutledge

Spencer Burns

Sully Burrows

 

 

 

MUSIC VIDEO OF THE YEAR sponsored by Jim Dunlop Productions

Blinding Lights (Country Version): Tebey

Finding Firsts: Andrew Hyatt

Guilty: Nicole Rayy

Moonshines: Owen Riegling

Never Have I Ever: Elyse Saunders

Still Make Cowgirls: Karli June

 

 

 

INDUSTRY PERSON OF THE YEAR sponsored by Manrkē

AJ Astle, Roadhouse Productions

Christine Wiley & Christine Stevens, C to C Music Insider

Dave Woods, In the Country

Elliott Deseure & Nick Marinac, Adaptive Media

Samantha Pickard, Strut Entertainment

Sam Davs, Cosmic Alchemy Designs

 

 

MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR sponsored by Cithara Guitars

Adrian Juras (Karli June and Ryan Langdon)

Jeff Brown (Kelsi Mayne, Washboard Union, Jason Blaine)

Joey DePaiva (Mackenzie Leigh Meyer, Spencer Burns, Nicole Rayy)

Jordan Honsinger (Tebey)

Mackenzie Leigh Meyer (Robyn Ottolini)

Ryan Cassar (Elyse Saunders, Kelsi Mayne, Paige Rutledge)

 

 

ARTISTE OU GROUPE FRANCOPHONE DE L’ANNÉE

FRANCOPHONE ARTIST OR GROUP OF THE YEAR

Kristine St-Pierre

Les Rats D’Swompe

Mitch Jean

Reney Ray

Sugar Crush

Vincent Bishop

 

 

RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR (LARGE MARKET) sponsored by Fielding Estate Winery

Country 104 (CKDK-FM, London)

Country 106.7 (CIKZ-FM, Kitchener)

KX94.7 (CHKX-FM, Hamilton)

KX96 (CJKX-FM, Ajax)

Pure Country 93 (CJBX-FM, London)

Pure Country 94 (CKKL-FM, Ottawa)

 

 

RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR (MEDIUM MARKET) sponsored by Lucknow’s Music in the Fields

Cool 100.1 (CHCQ-FM, Belleville)

Country 104.3 (CJQM-FM, Sault Ste. Marie)

Country 105 (CKTG-FM, Thunder Bay)

Country 92.9 (CFCO-FM, Chatham)

HOT COUNTRY 88.5 (CKDX-FM, Newmarket)

Hot Country 93.9 (CFWC-FM, Brantford)

 

 

RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR (SMALL MARKET)

Country 103 (CHAW-FM, Little Current)

Country 89 (CKYY-FM, Welland)

Country 93 (CKYC-FM, Owen Sound)

K Country 93.7 (CKOU-FM, Georgina)

Pure Country 106 (CICX-FM, Orillia)

The Ranch 100.1 (CHLP-FM, Listowel)

 

 

FANS’ CHOICE sponsored by Tourism Hamilton

Josh Ross

Owen Riegling

Sacha

Steven Lee Olsen

Tebey

The Reklaws

 

COMPASS AWARDS - JOSH ROSS  


The Real McCoy Award Sposored by Slaight Music went to Jason McCoy

 The evening was also a heartfelt send-off for Jason McCoy, who hosted the show for the final time after 12 memorable years. To honour his incredible contributions to Ontario’s country music scene, the CMAOntario introduced a brand new accolade: The Real McCoy Award, presented by Slaight Music. This award recognizes someone who embodies compassion, integrity, and a deep love for the music—and it’s only fitting that McCoy was the first to receive it.


 

Music Video of The Year - our very own, Elyse Saunders for her 'Never Have I Ever'  


Elyse Saunders receiving her awards.  https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DsqofLPhX/

 






SPECIAL SHOUT OUT 

goes out to Peterborough's own, Ty Wilson on his recognition as a pre nominee just like our previous Peterborough songbird, Tami J Wilde was in 2013.  

Nice to see that Peterborough artists are getting recognized for their extreme talents.  

Keep up the fantastic music!