Ontario-based group James Barker Band has been chosen to emcee the premier event in Canadian country music. The Canadian Country Music Association announced that the band hailing from Woodville will not only host but also perform at the CCMA Awards on September 19 in Saskatoon.
Scheduled performers for the live broadcast on CTV and Crave include Brett Kissel, Madeline Merlo, Dean Brody, and Tenille Townes. James Barker Band is in contention for five awards, such as best album, best single, and entertainer of the year. The band has previously secured the best group award for two consecutive years.
In the nominee spotlight are country artist Josh Ross and emerging talent Cameron Whitcomb, each leading with seven nominations. The two artists will compete in various top categories. Additionally, the awards ceremony will feature a special musical homage to the late American country legend Dolly Parton, who passed away at the age of 80 last month.