The annual Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Awards have made their way to Kelowna, British Columbia, marking the first time the event is being held in this city. Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas expressed excitement about hosting this esteemed event in the city. This is only the third time the awards have taken place in British Columbia since their inception in 1977, with the previous two occurrences being in Vancouver.
The CCMA Awards celebrate the top talents in Canadian country music, with Surrey’s Tyler Joe Miller receiving a nomination for album of the year. Additionally, both Tyler Joe Miller and Dallas Smith from New Westminster are finalists for the CCMA fans’ choice award.
Victoria-based country artist Theresa Anne Bromley, also known as Pony Gold, highlighted the current surge in popularity of country music, emphasizing the importance of storytelling through songwriting. Nanaimo’s Cameron Whitcomb is among the most nominated British Columbians this year, contending for several awards including entertainer and single of the year.
Cameron Whitcomb gained recognition after participating in American Idol in 2022, reaching the top 20 before being eliminated. Since then, he has rapidly ascended in the country music scene, with his debut single “Quitter” garnering a CCMA nomination for single of the year. Whitcomb expressed gratitude for his success, citing significant personal milestones like buying a new car and a house, as well as supporting his brother in his journey to recovery.
Whitcomb’s journey has been marked by his openness about his battles with addiction, a theme that also resonates in his music. He expressed particular pride in his nomination for songwriter of the year, emphasizing the importance of authentic and meaningful songwriting.
The CCMA Awards will be hosted live by Canadian comedian Tom Green at Kelowna’s Prospera Place on Saturday, September 13. Viewers can catch the ceremony on CTV and its online platforms.
