Owen Riegling Takes Home Multiple Awards at 2026 CMAOntario Ceremony
Rising country sensation, Owen Riegling, shone brightly at the recent CMAOntario Awards, walking away with an impressive three trophies. The awards ceremony, which took place on May 31 at Port Credit Memorial Arena, also saw Sacha, Jessica Sevier, and James Barker Band each clinching two victories. A remarkable moment in CMAOntario history occurred when the breakthrough artist of the Year award resulted in a tie between Tyler Lorette and Jessica Sevier.
Hosted by the talented Ontario country artist, Jason Blaine, and Country Nights host, Sam McDaid, the event showcased performances from a lineup of exceptional talent including Riegling, Sully Burrows, Olivia Mae Graham, Sevier, Elyse Saunders, School House, Lorette, Cory Marks, Les Rats d’Swompe, and the CMAOntario house band, The Western Swing Authority.
The 2026 CMAOntario Awards winners represented a diverse array of musical excellence in the industry. Noteworthy accolades included Owen Riegling’s “Taillight this Town” for Single of the Year, Sacha’s “Woman in the Mirror” for Album/EP of the Year, and Jessica Sevier, Robyn Ottolini, and Derek Hoffman for Songwriter(s) of the Year with “Good to Drive.” Female Artist of the Year went to Sacha, while Owen Riegling secured the Male Artist of the Year award. The James Barker Band was celebrated as the Group or Duo of the Year, and Adam Newcomb claimed the Record Producer of the Year title for his work on Tyler Lorette’s “I Ain’t Thinkin’.” The Roots Artist or Group of the Year award was bestowed upon School House, and the coveted Fans’ Choice award rightfully went to Owen Riegling.
In the realm of festivals, the iconic Riot Fest in Chicago returns for its 21st edition with a lineup that features influential artists such as Alanis Morissette and Angine de Poitrine alongside renowned names like Tool, Twenty One Pilots, and Morrissey. On the Canadian front, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival promises an unforgettable experience with a lineup that includes Tami Neilson, Billy Bragg, and Ruby Waters. Not to be outdone, the Donaldson’s Home County Music & Art Festival in London, Ontario, marks its 50th anniversary celebration with a musically eclectic roster that includes pioneers like The Halluci Nation and indie-folk favorites, The Rural Alberta Advantage.
In industry news, the Festival of Stories in Hamilton, presented by the new Indigenous arts company, Indian & Cowboy Creative Media, offers a captivating program of live podcast recordings, true crime stories, and comedy. Additionally, the National Music Centre in Calgary unveils an updated version of its Speak Up! exhibit, featuring performances by artists such as Tudjaat, Crystal Shawanda, and Andrea Menard.
The music scene is vibrant and thriving, with numerous awards, festivals, and industry initiatives celebrating the diversity and talent within the Canadian music landscape. Owen Riegling’s stellar success at the CMAOntario Awards only serves to highlight the wealth of musical excellence that continues to emerge from the country.