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13-Year-Old Guitar Prodigy Vox Realis Shreds Into the Spotlight with Explosive Debut Single ‘Overkill’

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At just 13 years old, Seattle’s own Vox Realis is already commanding attention in the global guitar and metal scene. His debut single, “Overkill,” arrives as a high-voltage statement of intent, produced by Adair Daufembach (Angra, Megadeth, Kiko Loureiro) and featuring Felipe Andreoli (Angra) on bass and Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth) on drums. With Vox himself handling guitar duties, the track showcases a player whose skill, tone, and compositional maturity defy his years.

“‘Overkill’ is more than just a debut—it’s a statement,” says producer Adair Daufembach. “Vox Realis is the rare kind of player who combines feel, speed, and purpose. He’s not just talented for his age—he’s talented, period.” The track bursts with technical precision, molten riffs, and melodic weight, channeling the fire of guitar legends like Marty Friedman, Joe Satriani, and Dimebag Darrell while carving a path that’s uniquely his own.

Already recognized as one of the youngest rising stars in the guitar world, Vox has been featured in Guitar World Magazine as a “young artist to watch” and has appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Seattle Refined, KING 5, and KEXP Radio—where he made his broadcast debut at just 10 years old. He continues to hone his craft under the mentorship of GRAMMY-winning guitarist Kiko Loureiro (Megadeth, Angra), combining formal training with boundless creativity.

Outside the studio, Vox hosts his own viral series Metal For Breakfast, where his jaw-dropping performances and imaginative takes on iconic solos have drawn fans from across the world. With “Overkill,” he proves he’s not just a prodigy—he’s a full-fledged artist ready to redefine the sound and spirit of modern guitar music. Backed by some of metal’s finest, Vox Realis is not just the future of guitar—he’s the now.

Rock Rebel IV4 Reclaims Her Power with Fierce New Single ‘Still Alive’

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IV4, the artist formerly known for her viral pop hits and magnetic online presence, has officially entered a bold new era with her electrifying new single “Still Alive.” Blending grunge, metal, and alternative rock, the track showcases a fearless evolution for the Los Angeles–based artist, born Ivana Petrovic, who has captivated over half a million followers on TikTok with her unapologetic authenticity and dynamic artistry.

“Still Alive” is more than a comeback—it’s a battle cry. “It’s about surviving yourself as much as everything else,” IV4 shares. “It came from a place of raw emotion. The split between anger and vulnerability. When you’re trying to reclaim who you are after losing control for too long. It’s not about being untouched by the chaos, it’s about feeling every part of it and realizing you’re still here, still standing, still alive.” Her words mirror the grit and catharsis of the song itself, a storm of distorted guitars, crashing drums, and soaring vocals that blur the line between pain and power.

The single marks a radical reinvention for IV4, following past successes like “Stroke” featuring Jeremih and “Swimming” featuring Trippie Redd. After years in the pop mainstream, she’s traded glossy production for raw emotion, embracing a sound that channels the spirit of 90s alternative and modern metal alike. It’s an evolution that feels inevitable—a culmination of her journey toward self-ownership and fearless creative freedom.

With “Still Alive,” IV4 continues to prove that rebirth isn’t about leaving your past behind—it’s about transforming it into art. The single’s accompanying video amplifies that energy with striking visuals of defiance and rebirth, capturing IV4’s signature mix of vulnerability and power. It’s a new chapter for a genre-defying artist who’s breaking rules, shattering expectations, and reminding everyone watching that survival can sound like liberation.

Avant-Pop Visionary Savannah Pope Unveils Haunting New Single ‘Terrible Thing’ and Joins Andy Bell’s U.S. Tour

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Savannah Pope has never been one to color inside the lines, and her new single “Terrible Thing” proves just how powerfully she can turn vulnerability into art. A baroque, flamenco-tinged confessional, the track grapples with the paradox of love that’s long desired but impossible to fully hold. With sweeping instrumentation, world-music influences, and an emotional rawness reminiscent of Lorde, Leonard Cohen, and Muse, “Terrible Thing” stands as her most ambitious work yet—a haunting portrait of longing and self-reckoning.

“This song is about needing something you have no place to put,” Savannah explains. Inspired by her travels to Spain and a rekindled love for Flamenco, “Terrible Thing” embodies her fascination with rhythm, emotion, and storytelling that transcends genre. “These are the kinds of things you can’t just say out loud,” she says. “You need a song to say them.” The single serves as a centerpiece of her forthcoming EP, which explores identity, repression, and survival through lush arrangements and cinematic scope.

Known for her operatic vocals and visually striking performances, Savannah Pope’s artistry blends theatricality and intimacy in equal measure. Her creative evolution—from recording her first songs after a near-fatal accident to building a DIY empire of music videos, costumes, and surrealist visuals—has shaped her into one of Los Angeles’ most fearless performers. Co-writing with Adam Gimenez and working with producers Joshua Sadlier-Brown and All Made Up, she treats each recording as an act of emotional alchemy. Her upcoming EP continues the visionary streak that began with her breakout album Pandemonium, diving even deeper into the human psyche and the beauty found in brokenness.

This fall, Savannah joins Andy Bell of Erasure on tour, bringing her haunting art-rock presence to stages across North America. From New York’s Gramercy Theatre to Los Angeles’ Fonda Theater, fans can expect a performance that’s as cinematic as it is soul-baring—an experience where every note feels like a revelation.

With “Terrible Thing,” Savannah Pope continues to expand the boundaries of modern rock and avant-pop. Her music dares listeners to confront the beautiful and the painful in equal measure, transforming confession into connection and vulnerability into strength.

Savannah Pope – Tour Dates Supporting Andy Bell (Erasure):
October 23–25 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theatre
October 28 – Pittsburgh, PA – Roxian Theatre
October 29 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center
October 31 – Red Bank, NJ – The Vogel
November 1 – Boston, MA – The Wilbur
November 4 – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues
November 7–8 – Chicago, IL – Metro
November 9 – Cincinnati, OH – Bogart’s
November 11 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room
November 13 – New Orleans, LA – Orpheum Theater
November 14 – San Antonio, TX – Aztec Theater
November 15 – Dallas, TX – Majestic Theater
November 18 – Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre
November 20 – Denver, CO – Summit Music Hall
November 21–22 – Park City, UT – The Marquis
November 25 – Sacramento, CA – Crest Theatre
November 26 – Menlo Park, CA – Guild Theatre
November 28–29 – San Francisco, CA – Palace of Fine Arts
December 2 – Portland, OR – Newmark Theatre
December 3 – Vancouver, BC – Vogue
December 4 – Seattle, WA – Showbox at the Market
December 6 – Stateline, NV – Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
December 9 – Phoenix, AZ – Van Buren
December 10 – San Diego, CA – Music Box
December 12–13 – Los Angeles, CA – The Fonda Theater

Pop Punk Powerhouse Taylor Acorn Drops Fearless Records Debut ‘Poster Child’ and Announces Full U.S. Tour

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Taylor Acorn is back and bolder than ever. The unapologetic pop punk force has released her highly anticipated sophomore album Poster Child, her first full-length since signing to Fearless Records earlier this year. Featuring the hard-hitting singles “Crashing Out,” “Hangman,” and “Goodbye, Good Riddance,” the record cements Acorn’s status as one of the most powerful voices in modern alt-pop punk.

To accompany the album drop, Acorn shared a brand-new music video for “Home Videos,” one of the record’s most personal moments. “‘Home Videos’ is one of my favorites on the entire record,” says Acorn. “Growing up is such a privilege but at the same time I find it so weird how far away from our pasts we end up. I find myself a lot of the time dreaming of being back in my childhood… I’m really proud that we were able to capture the feeling of that in this song.”

Since its release, Poster Child has gained major traction on streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and Pandora, earning placements on playlists like Pop Punk’s Not Dead, Women of Rock, All New Rock, and Relationship Goals. With its explosive energy and lyrical honesty, the album channels a generation finding its voice amid chaos, nostalgia, and resilience.

Following standout sets at When We Were Young Festival in Las Vegas alongside blink-182, Avril Lavigne, Panic! At The Disco, and Weezer, Acorn will bring Poster Child to life on her full U.S. headline tour this fall, beginning with a special album release show in Nashville on October 29. She’ll also make a festival stop at Vans Warped Tour in Orlando on November 16 before wrapping up in Cleveland on December 6.

Taylor Acorn – 2024 U.S. Tour Dates:
October 29 – Nashville, TN – Cannery Hall (Album Release Show)
November 4 – Boston, MA – Brighton Music Hall
November 6 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theatre
November 7 – Washington, DC – Atlantis
November 8 – Allentown, PA – Arrow
November 10 – Buffalo, NY – Rec Room
November 11 – Toronto, ON – Annabel’s Music Hall
November 13 – Pittsburgh, PA – Thunderbird Cafe
November 14 – Charlotte, NC – Amos Southend
November 15 – Jacksonville, FL – Jack Rabbits
November 16 – Orlando, FL – Vans Warped Tour **
November 18 – Austin, TX – Antones
November 19 – Dallas, TX – Cambridge Room at House of Blues
November 21 – Phoenix, AZ – Crescent Ballroom
November 22 – Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex
November 23 – Roseville, CA – Goldfield Trading Post
November 25 – Seattle, WA – Madame Lou’s
November 26 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theatre
November 28 – Salt Lake City, UT – Soundwell
November 29 – Denver, CO – Marquis Theater
November 30 – Lawrence, KS – Bottleneck
December 2 – Chicago, IL – Lincoln Hall
December 3 – Detroit, MI – Shelter
December 5 – Columbus, OH – A&R Music Bar
December 6 – Cleveland, OH – Beachland Ballroom
(** Indicates festival date)

With Poster Child, Taylor Acorn captures the chaos, heart, and healing of growing up without losing her spark. From her introspective songwriting to her fearless performances, Acorn continues to lead the new wave of women redefining pop punk.

Symphonic Metal Titans Beyond The Black Unite with Lovebites’ Asami for Explosive New Single ‘Can You Hear Me’

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Symphonic metal powerhouse Beyond The Black are back with a thunderous new single, “Can You Hear Me,” featuring Asami, lead vocalist of Japanese power metal band Lovebites. The song marks the fourth release from the band’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, Break The Silence, arriving January 9, 2026, via Nuclear Blast Records. The track is a soaring anthem that unites East and West, pairing two commanding voices in an emotionally charged duet sung in both Japanese and English.

“Can You Hear Me” tackles the universal struggle of finding true connection in an increasingly chaotic world. “Can You Hear Me is a song about the shared longing for true connection – two voices from different worlds breaking through the noise of a hyperconnected yet disconnected world to truly be heard,” says lead singer Jennifer Haben. Asami adds, “I’m truly excited to be part of ‘Can You Hear Me’ with Beyond The Black. It’s a powerful song and working together across countries and cultures has been an inspiring experience. We hope the message reaches people everywhere.” The single is accompanied by a stunning animated music video now streaming on YouTube.

Break The Silence blends melodic metal with global influences, exploring themes of resilience, communication, and emotional rebirth. Tracks like “Let There Be Rain,” “(La Vie Est Un) Cinéma,” “Ravens,” and “The Flood” expand Beyond The Black’s sonic range while preserving the sweeping grandeur that made them one of the genre’s defining forces. Since their award-winning 2015 debut Songs Of Love And Death, the band has topped charts, sold out tours, and played alongside icons such as Aerosmith, Korn, Scorpions, and Within Temptation, earning a devoted worldwide following.

Following the album’s release, Beyond The Black will hit the road for their Rising High European headline tour, bringing their grand symphonic sound to fans across 14 countries. From Manchester to Helsinki, the band is ready to deliver an unforgettable live spectacle of soaring vocals, cinematic production, and emotional power.

BEYOND THE BLACK – RISING HIGH TOUR 2026
January 15 – Manchester, UK – O2 Ritz
January 16 – London, UK – O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
January 17 – Paris, FR – Bataclan
January 19 – Zurich, CH – X-Tra
January 20 – Munich, DE – Tonhalle
January 22 – Budapest, HU – Barba Negra
January 23 – Vienna, AT – Arena
January 24 – Geiselwind, DE – MusicHall
January 26 – Stuttgart, DE – Wagenhallen
January 27 – Wiesbaden, DE – Schlachthof
January 28 – Hanover, DE – Capitol
January 30 – Warsaw, PL – Proxima
January 31 – Leipzig, DE – Haus Auensee
February 1 – Berlin, DE – Huxleys
February 3 – Hamburg, DE – Insel Park Arena
February 4 – Antwerp, BE – Trix
February 5 – Oberhausen, DE – Turbinenhalle
February 6 – Nijmegen, NL – Doornroosje
February 8 – Copenhagen, DK – Pumpehuset
February 9 – Gothenburg, SE – Pustervik
February 11 – Oslo, NO – Vulkan
February 12 – Stockholm, SE – Kollektivet Livet
February 14 – Helsinki, FI – Aäniwalli

Photo Gallery: Parcels and The Lemon Twigs at Toronto’s Coca-Cola Coliseum on October 21, 2025

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All photos by Mini’s Memories. You can contact her through Instagram or X.

Blues-Rock Firebrand ZZ Ward Announces 2026 ‘Dirty Sun’ Tour with Electrifying Live “Dust My Broom” Performance

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Blues-rock powerhouse ZZ Ward is bringing her gritty grooves and soulful swagger back to the stage with the announcement of her 2026 Dirty Sun U.S. headline tour. To mark the occasion, Ward dropped a stunning live performance video of the blues classic “Dust My Broom,” recorded at the legendary EastWest Studios in Hollywood. The clip captures Ward at her fiery best, backed by a powerhouse band in a performance that blends raw blues authenticity with her signature modern edge.

“‘Dust My Broom’ was such a blast to record live with some of the best musicians around!! Can’t wait to hit this one at the next shows on the Dirty Sun Tour,” Ward shared. The track’s live rendition is pure blues electricity, a nod to the genre’s roots while showcasing Ward’s unstoppable presence as one of today’s most exciting blues-rock artists.

The Dirty Sun Tour kicks off February 24, 2026, in Berkeley, CA at Cornerstone, and will travel through major cities and intimate venues alike before wrapping up on March 29 in Boston, MA at City Winery. Fans can expect Ward’s trademark fusion of soulful vocals, smoky guitar tones, and cinematic storytelling as she breathes new life into both originals and timeless blues favorites.

ZZ Ward – The Dirty Sun Tour Dates:
February 24 – Berkeley, CA – Cornerstone
February 25 – Napa, CA – Uptown Theatre
February 27 – Reno, NV – Harrah’s Lake Tahoe
March 1 – Phoenix, AZ – MIM
March 18 – Homer, NY – Center for the Arts of Homer
March 19 – Bethlehem, PA – Musikfest Cafe
March 21 – Alexandria, VA – Birchmere
March 22 – Annapolis, MD – Rams Head on Stage
March 24 – Portsmouth, NH – Jimmy’s
March 25 – Fall River, MA – Narrows Center for the Arts
March 27 – New York, NY – City Winery
March 28 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Casino – Wolf Den
March 29 – Boston, MA – City Winery

Las Vegas Rockers Velvet Chains Unleash Haunting New Single “How the Story Ends”

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Velvet Chains are back with a vengeance. The Las Vegas rockers have released their latest single, “How the Story Ends,” a gripping and emotional track that dives deep into the heart of human fragility. Blending raw emotion with razor-sharp production, the song showcases the band’s signature mix of melody, power, and soul, delivering a haunting anthem for anyone who’s ever faced loss, change, or the challenge of rebuilding from the ashes.

Premiered exclusively on SiriusXM’s Octane channel last week, “How the Story Ends” is already making serious waves. The single has now entered rotation on multiple rock stations across the U.S. and internationally, climbing quickly toward a potential Top 40 breakthrough on the Active Rock charts. With its surging guitars and emotionally charged lyrics, the track captures Velvet Chains at their most compelling.

“‘How the Story Ends’ is about searching for meaning in a world that has become uncertain and broken,” says bassist and founder Nils Goldschmidt. “It’s a reflection on loss, change, and the quiet yet brutal act of gathering what’s left of your life. It remains the most hauntingly raw and emotionally charged song we’ve ever written.” His words ring true as the song builds into a cathartic release, blending heartbreak with hope in perfect balance.

Velvet Chains continue to build their reputation as one of the most emotionally resonant forces in modern rock. With “How the Story Ends,” they’ve created a soundscape that feels both deeply personal and universally human — the kind of song that lingers long after the final chord fades.

Country-Rock Star Tyler Braden Extends His ‘Devil and a Prayer’ Tour with New 2026 Dates

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Tyler Braden is taking his firebrand country-rock sound to even more cities. The rising powerhouse has announced new 2026 dates for his headline Devil and a Prayer Tour, kicking off April 9 in Fort Worth, TX. Known for his soaring vocals and blue-collar storytelling, Braden will bring his high-energy live show to fans nationwide with Clayton Mullen joining as support for all newly added shows.

The tour takes its name from Braden’s explosive debut album, Devil and a Prayer, released earlier this year via Warner Music Nashville. The 19-track project features fan favorites “DEVIL YOU KNOW” and “GOD & GUNS N’ ROSES,” showcasing Braden’s balance of grit and soul. With raw emotion and rock-infused swagger, he’s quickly carving out a space among country’s most exciting live performers.

Fans can catch Braden on tour across the country this winter and spring. The newly announced dates begin in Fort Worth and stretch through the Southwest, adding to an already packed 2026 schedule. Tickets for all new shows go on sale Thursday, October 31 at 10 AM local time via TylerBraden.com.

Tyler Braden – The Devil and a Prayer Tour Dates:

January 29 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line (with Owen Riegling)
January 30 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave/Eagles Club – The Rave II (with Owen Riegling)
January 31 – Indianapolis, IN – 8 Seconds Saloon (with Owen Riegling)
February 6 – Saint Louis, MO – Ballpark Village: Hot Country Nights (with Owen Riegling)
February 7 – Lincoln, NE – The Bourbon Theatre (with Owen Riegling)
February 13 – Lexington, KY – Manchester Music Hall (with Owen Riegling)
February 14 – Charlotte, NC – Neighborhood Theatre (with Owen Riegling)
February 15 – Atlanta, GA – Terminal West (with Owen Riegling)
February 19 – Boston, MA – Brighton Music Hall (with Owen Riegling)
February 20 – New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom (with Owen Riegling)
February 21 – Warrendale, PA – Jergel’s Rhythm Grille (with Owen Riegling)

Newly Announced Dates (with Clayton Mullen):
April 9 – Fort Worth, TX – Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall
April 14 – Albuquerque, NM – The Dirty Bourbon
April 16 – Colorado Springs, CO – Phil Long Music Hall
April 17 – Grand Junction, CO – Warehouse 25 Sixty-Five
April 18 – Englewood, CO – Gothic Theatre
April 21 – Flagstaff, AZ – Orpheum Theater
April 24 – Phoenix, AZ – Crescent Ballroom

With a mix of grit, heart, and pure adrenaline, Tyler Braden’s Devil and a Prayer Tour promises an unforgettable ride for fans of modern country-rock. From packed clubs to theaters buzzing with energy, every stop is set to deliver the kind of raw, electric connection Braden has become known for.

Canadian Folk Music Awards Shine Bright with 2026 Nominees Celebrating 45 Years of Folk Spirit

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The Canadian Folk Music Awards have unveiled their 2026 nominees, celebrating 105 artists across 21 categories from coast to coast. Set to take place April 9–12, 2026 in Calgary, the 21st edition of the CFMAs continues its legacy of spotlighting Canada’s folk brilliance, honoring the artists who weave stories of tradition, truth, and timeless sound.

Leading the nominations are Toronto singer-songwriter AHI and Nova Scotia’s beloved duo Cassie and Maggie, with five nods each. AHI’s The Light Behind The Sun shines in Contemporary Album, Contemporary Singer, Oliver Schroer Pushing the Boundaries, English Songwriter, and Single of the Year, while Cassie and Maggie’s Gold and Coal sweeps nominations for Traditional Album, Traditional Singer, Vocal Group, Ensemble, and Oliver Schroer Pushing the Boundaries. With returning favorites and new faces, this year’s lineup celebrates the full spectrum of folk innovation.

Other multi-nominated artists include Max Francis, Boreal, Claire Morrison, Jessica Pearson & The East Wind, and The Fretless (featuring Madeleine Roger). Two-time nominees such as Aysanabee, Irish Millie, and Terra Spencer join the mix, proving that Canadian folk continues to evolve while staying rooted in its authentic storytelling spirit.

Here’s the complete list of 2026 CFMA categories and nominees:

Young Performer(s) of the Year / Jeune artiste(s) de l’année

  • Ella Gunning Parker – Look Alive
  • Irish Millie – Between Then and Now
  • Luka Hall – To Be Honest
  • Max Francis – Home
  • Salt Beef Junkies – Unnamed Demo

New Artist(s) of the Year / Découverte(s) de l’année

  • Claire Morrison – Where Do You Go at Night?
  • Jessica Pearson and the East Wind – LIVE from Motel Chelsea
  • Kazdoura – Ghoyoum (Clouds)
  • Robert Thomas and the sessionmen – The Way We Roll
  • Wyatt C. Louis – Chandler

Contemporary Album of the Year / Album contemporain de l’année

  • AHI – The Light Behind The Sun
  • Boreal – Winterbirds
  • Claire Morrison – Where Do You Go at Night?
  • Sacred Wolf Singers X Simon Walls – L’nu’k Mawiejik
  • The Fretless (featuring Madeleine Roger) – Glasswing

Contemporary Singer of the Year / Chanteur contemporain de l’année

  • AHI – The Light Behind The Sun
  • Julian Taylor – Pathways
  • Kyle McKearney – To The River
  • Mia Kelly – To Be Clear
  • Stephen Fearing – The Empathist

Global Roots Album of the Year / Album traditions du monde de l’année

  • Ahmed Moneka – Kanzafula
  • Amir Amiri Ensemble – Ajdad – Ancestors, Echoes of Persia
  • Joaquin Nunez & Habana Safari – Ruta de la Clave
  • Kazdoura – Ghoyoum (Clouds)
  • Selcuk Suna – The Space Between

Stan Rogers Traditional Singer of the Year / Prix Stan Rogers Chanter traditionnel de l’année

  • Sam Allison (Lotus Wight) – Original Works for Voice and Banjo
  • Maggie MacDonald (Cassie and Maggie) – Gold and Coal
  • Mathieu Baillargeon (La Déferlance) – Âmes des bois
  • Matthew Byrne – Stealing Time
  • Michael Darcy (Michael Darcy & The Atlantic Tramps) – Homemade

Traditional Album of the Year / Album traditionnel de l’année

  • Cassie and Maggie – Gold and Coal
  • Matthew Byrne – Stealing Time
  • Max Francis – Home
  • Richard Wood – Richard Wood Live! An Evening of Celtic Music
  • The Barrel Boys – Chicken In The Window

French Songwriter(s) of the Year / Auteur-compositeur(s) francophone de l’année

  • Fred Dionne – Eldorado
  • Guillaume Arsenault – Les plantes continuent de pousser même quand tu dors – Face B
  • Maude Carrier – Les journées grises
  • Sandie Valiquette – Forêt Marine
  • Yves Marchand – Tellement naturel

English Songwriter(s) of the Year / Auteur compositeur(s) anglophone de l’année

  • AHI – The Light Behind The Sun
  • Mia Kelly – To Be Clear
  • Shane Pendergast – Winter Grace
  • Suzie Ungerleider – Among the Evergreens
  • Terra Spencer – Sunset

Indigenous Songwriter(s) of the Year / Auteur compositeur(s) autochtone de l’année

  • Amanda Rheaume – The Truth We Hold
  • Asiah Holm – The Mask That You Made
  • Aysanabee – Edge Of The Earth
  • Inuksuk Mackay, Tiffany Ayailk (PIQSIQ) – Legends
  • Wyatt C. Louis – Chandler

Instrumental Composer of the Year / Compositeur(s) ou compositrice(s) de l’année

  • Anne Lindsay – SOLOWORKS 2
  • Dane George – Spring Buds
  • Eric Abramovitz, Rebekah Wolkstein, Drew Jurecka (Schmaltz & Pepper) – Schmaltz & Pepper
  • Max Francis – Home
  • Trent Freeman, Karrnnel Sawitsky, Eric Wright, Ben Plotnick (The Fretless (featuring Madeleine Roger)) – Glasswing

Children’s Album of the Year / Album jeunesse de l’année

  • Ginalina – All the Earth Speaks
  • Heather Feather – Together
  • James Culleton – Superfolk
  • Marky Weinstock & Friends (a.k.a. Dr. Marky) – “Here for you!”
  • Oh Clementine – One Thousand Mornings

Instrumental Group of the Year / Groupe instrumental de l’année

  • Amir Amiri Ensemble – Ajdad – Ancestors, Echoes of Persia
  • Amir Eslami – Multicultural Wind Ensemble
  • Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira – Here To Stay
  • Ladom Ensemble – Sofreh Tisch
  • The Fretless (featuring Madeleine Roger) – Glasswing

Ensemble of the Year / Groupe de l’année

  • Boreal – Winterbirds
  • Cassie and Maggie – Gold and Coal
  • Garçons à Marier – La Dot
  • Jessica Pearson and the East Wind – LIVE from Motel Chelsea
  • The Southern Residents – Folk Signals

Vocal Group of the Year / Groupe vocal de l’année

  • Boreal – Winterbirds
  • Cassie and Maggie – Gold and Coal
  • Jessica Pearson and the East Wind – LIVE from Motel Chelsea
  • PIQSIQ – Legends
  • The Barrel Boys – Chicken In The Window

Oliver Schroer Pushing the Boundaries Award / Prix Innovation musicale Oliver Schroer

  • AHI – The Light Behind The Sun
  • Calgaréal – Vanishing Points
  • Cassie and Maggie – Gold and Coal
  • Oktoecho – Saimaniq Sivumut
  • Payadora – Legend of Carau

Producer(s) of the Year / Réalisateur(s) de l’année

  • Ben Plotnick (Loud in the Pines) – Every Colour Left
  • Colin Buchanan & Davy Gallant (Lennie Gallant) – Shelter From the Storms
  • Jim Bowskill (Brooks & Bowskill) – Blissful State of Mind
  • Liam Duncan (Boy Golden) – For Eden
  • Rayannah (Claire Morrison) – Where Do You Go at Night?

Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year / Instrumentiste solo de l’année

  • Max Francis – Home
  • Olivia Barrett – Elsewhere
  • Rachel Therrien – Mi Hogar II
  • Scott Duncan – Grandpa & Me
  • Yves Cloutier – Fleuve

Solo Artist of the Year / Artiste solo de l’année

  • Duane Andrews – Duane Andrews And The Hot Club Of Conception Bay
  • Heather MacIsaac – The Moon’s Daughter
  • Lennie Gallant – Shelter From the Storms
  • Mallory Chipman – Songs to a Wild
  • Terra Spencer – Sunset

Single of the Year / Monoplage de l’année

  • Edge Of The Earth – Aysanabee
  • Human Kind – AHI
  • Lost and Found – Sultans of String feat. Shannon Thunderbird
  • To Fail – Rachel Cousins
  • You Were There – Irish Millie

Album Artwork of the Year / Pochette de l’année

  • Kevin Hutchings – Halcyon Days
  • Nastasia Y – Kyiv Soul
  • Oktoecho – Saimaniq Sivumut
  • Ru Rose – Revival
  • The Arrogant Worms – Canadian Famous

The 2026 Canadian Folk Music Awards promise four days of performances, community, and creativity, shining a light on the incredible diversity of Canada’s folk scene. From rising artists to established icons, this year’s nominees reflect a nation of storytellers who continue to shape the sound of Canadian culture.