The 2026 CCMA Awards: A Celebration of Canadian Country Music
The Canadian Country Music Association Awards, or the CCMA Awards, are set to return to Saskatoon's SaskTel Centre on September 19, 2026, and the nominations have just been unveiled. This year's ceremony promises to be a star-studded affair, with a diverse range of artists and categories up for recognition.
One of the most notable aspects of this year's nominations is the dominance of Josh Ross and Cameron Whitcomb, who each received seven nominations. Ross is up for Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans' Choice, Male Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Musical Collaboration of the Year, and Video of the Year. Whitcomb, on the other hand, is nominated for Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans' Choice, Male Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year. Their success in multiple categories highlights their versatility and impact on the country music scene.
James Barker Band, Thelma & James, and Tenille Townes are also making waves with five nominations each. Barker Band is up for Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans' Choice, Group or Duo of the Year, and Single of the Year. Thelma & James are nominated for Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Group or Duo of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year, Video of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year. Townes is nominated for Female Artist of the Year, Single of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year, Musical Collaboration of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year. Their nominations showcase the depth and talent within the Canadian country music industry.
Owen Riegling and Morgan Griffiths are also making their mark with four and three nominations, respectively. Riegling is up for Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans' Choice, and Male Artist of the Year. Griffiths, a first-time nominee, is nominated for Fans' Choice, Breakthrough Artist or Group of the Year, and Single of the Year. Other notable nominations include Nate Haller, Brett Kissel, and Meghan Patrick, each with three nominations. Their diverse range of nominations highlights the competitive nature of the CCMA Awards and the high caliber of talent in the Canadian country music scene.
One exciting addition to the CCMA Awards this year is the Francophone Artist of the Year category, presented by Spotify. This category recognizes exceptional Francophone acts that have made significant contributions to the genre. The nominees are Francis Degrandpré, Fred Dionne, Gab Forest, Vince Lemire, and Laurence St-Martin. The winner will be announced during the ceremony, adding a new dimension to the awards and celebrating the rich cultural diversity of Canadian country music.
Country Music Week 2026, which runs from September 16 to 19, will be a celebration of country music and its homegrown stars. The CCMA Awards will showcase previously announced performances by Dean Brody, James Barker Band, The Reklaws, Owen Riegling, and several homegrown Saskatchewan artists, including Tenille Arts, Hunter Brothers, Kalsey Kulyk, and Jess Moskaluke. With more performances to be announced, the ceremony is sure to be a memorable event for country music fans across Canada.
The full list of nominees can be found on the CCMA website, and the awards will be broadcast live on September 19. The CCMA Awards are a testament to the thriving Canadian country music industry and a celebration of the talent and creativity that makes the genre so beloved. As an industry insider, I can't wait to see who takes home the trophies this year and look forward to another exciting ceremony.
