Saskatchewan has a rich history in country music, and a recent surge in the genre’s popularity is shining a spotlight on artists from the province. The upcoming Canadian Country Music Awards in Saskatoon will bring together country music stars from across the country to celebrate their achievements.
Among them is Josh Stumpf, a 23-year-old talent from Prince Albert. Stumpf, who was honored as the Emerging Artist of the Year by the Saskatchewan Country Music Association in 2024, is now nominated for two prestigious CCMAs. His musical journey began when he started playing the guitar at church and later delved into songwriting. Stumpf, who also participated in the 2026 Sirius XM Top of the Country Competition, is nominated for Fans’ Choice and Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the upcoming CCMAs.
The popularity of Canadian country music has seen significant growth, with Spotify data showing a 64% increase in global listenership and a 35% rise in domestic interest over the past five years. Stumpf attributes part of his success to the resurgence of country music’s appeal. He expressed gratitude for the recognition his music has received, emphasizing that music is his true calling.
Ron Kitchener, the president of Open Road Music, a leading Canadian country record label, believes that the current music landscape presents abundant opportunities for artists. With fewer barriers to entry, musicians can explore diverse styles and reach wider audiences. Kitchener, who is set to be inducted into the CCMA’s Hall of Fame, sees a promising future for the industry.
The role of technology in music consumption is also significant, as Kitchener notes the impact of portable music devices on music accessibility. Kurt Dahl, an entertainment lawyer and musician involved in the CCMAs, highlights the importance of authenticity in music creation. Amid concerns about the rise of AI-generated music, Dahl emphasizes the value of genuine expression in songwriting.
The Canadian Country Music Awards festivities are ongoing in Saskatoon, culminating in the awards show on Saturday at the SaskTel Centre at 6 p.m. CST. The event marks a celebration of the thriving country music scene and the talented artists contributing to its growth.