The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) and CBC have announced key details for the 55th Annual JUNO Awards, set to take place live from TD Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario, on March 29, 2026, airing nationwide on CBC and CBC Gem.
Acclaimed comedian, actor, writer, and musician Mae Martin will host Canada’s Biggest Night in Music, marking a new chapter for the JUNOS with a host known for sharp wit, cultural insight, and creative versatility.
“Mae brings a sharp, original voice to the JUNOS stage,” said Allan Reid, President and CEO of CARAS. “This announcement, alongside honouring Daniel Caesar, recognizing Billy Talent and our Walt Grealis recipients, and unveiling the first JUNOfest performers, signals an exciting start to JUNO Week in Hamilton.”
Martin shared their excitement, saying the opportunity to celebrate bold and genre-defying Canadian artists on such a scale feels both thrilling and surreal.
Daniel Caesar to Perform and Receive International Achievement Award
Multi-platinum global artist Daniel Caesar will be presented with the International Achievement Award and will also perform during the broadcast. The award recognizes Canadian artists who have elevated the profile of Canadian music worldwide.
Since emerging as a defining voice in modern R&B, Caesar has achieved global success through chart-topping releases, international touring, and cultural impact. His breakthrough album Freudian achieved double-platinum status in Canada, while collaborations such as “Peaches” propelled him to international chart dominance. His most recent album, Son of Spergy, debuted in the top five on the Billboard 200 and topped the Billboard R&B Albums chart.
William Prince Confirmed for JUNOS Performance
Two-time JUNO Award winner William Prince will also take the broadcast stage. Known for his powerful storytelling and deeply human songwriting, Prince continues to earn widespread acclaim for his work.
His latest album, Further From the Country, reflects on uncertainty, legacy, and personal truth, expanding his sound while sharpening his lyrical focus. Prince’s career highlights include sold-out performances at Massey Hall, appearances at Newport Folk Festival and NPR’s Tiny Desk, and recognition through the John Prine Songwriter Fellowship and Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour.
Billy Talent to Receive Humanitarian Award
Billy Talent will be honoured with the Humanitarian Award at the JUNO Awards Gala Presented by Music Canada on Saturday, March 28. The band is recognized for decades of philanthropic work supporting causes such as War Child, MS Canada, and Make Music Matter.
From benefit concerts and fundraising initiatives to hands-on advocacy, Billy Talent’s commitment reflects a belief in music as a catalyst for meaningful change.
Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award Recipients Announced
Three influential industry figures will receive the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award Presented by Slaight Music:
- Alexander Mair (posthumous) – Co-founder of Attic Records and a foundational force in Canada’s independent music industry.
- Sandy Pandya – Artist manager and founder of ArtHaus, recognized for her artist-first leadership and long-term impact on Canadian talent development.
- Vinny Cinquemani – Co-President of Paquin Artist Agency and one of Canada’s most influential live-music agents, with decades of career-defining work for domestic and international artists.
First Round of JUNOfest Performers Revealed
The first wave of artists has been announced for JUNOfest Presented by CBC, the multi-venue festival running throughout JUNO Week in Hamilton. Performers include:
Amelia Maxwell, Ammoye, Bells Larsen, Billianne, Burs, Cam Kahin, Carrie Clark, Computer, cootie catcher, Dumb Crush, Ebril, Falls for the Elderly, Feura, GRAE, Ivy Gardens, JayWood, Jordan Astra, Kali Horse, Katie Tupper, Lindsay Schoolcraft, LU KALA, Mattie Leon, Myst Milano, Nicolette & The Nobodies, poolblood, Puma June, Rachel Bobbitt, Ralph Nyoni, Shawnee Kish, Silverstein, Sister Ray, Status/Non-Status, Superstar Crush, Tedy, and Ten Minute Detour.
Several performers have strong ties to Hamilton, making JUNOfest a hometown celebration for many artists.
Broadcast Details
The 55th Annual JUNO Awards, produced by Insight Productions, will air live across Canada at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on:
- CBC TV
- CBC Gem
- CBC Radio One
- CBC Music
- CBC Listen
The broadcast will also stream globally via CBC Music platforms.
For more information, visit junoawards.ca. Tickets are available through ticketmaster.ca/junos.
The Front of the Stage Editorial Team delivers the latest updates in rock, metal, and alternative music, keeping you connected to the pulse of the scene.
