At the recent Juno Awards gala, Justin Bieber, who had six nominations, did not win any awards. Instead, Tate McRae emerged victorious, clinching four Junos, including album of the year, artist of the year, single of the year, and pop album of the year.
The 2026 Juno Awards Gala, held on March 28 and co-hosted by CBC Music’s Damhnait Doyle and Odario Williams, saw the distribution of 47 awards. Notable wins and debut triumphs characterized the evening.
Justin Bieber and Tate McRae, although absent at the gala, are still contenders for the TD Juno Fan Choice at the upcoming Juno Awards on March 29, where the remaining four awards will be announced.
Daniel Caesar, a Toronto R&B artist, kicked off the awards night by winning the songwriter of the year award. Despite his absence, Caesar is set to receive the International Achievement Award at the Juno Awards ceremony and perform songs from his award-winning album “Son of Spergy.”
Aysanabee secured wins for alternative album of the year and contemporary Indigenous artist of the year. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to his all-female team and humorously hinted at relinquishing future nominations to other Indigenous artists.
Billy Talent was honored with the Humanitarian Award for their philanthropic endeavors over the past 25 years, supporting various charities and causes. The band has notably raised funds for the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, a cause close to drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, who has been living with MS since the age of 24.
The Beaches triumphed in the rock album of the year category with “No Hard Feelings,” while Sadboi claimed the rap album/EP of the year award for her work on “Dry Cry.”
Several artists, including Kazdoura, Aaron Paris, and Debby Friday, celebrated their first Juno wins in various categories, while filmmaker Karena Evans received the music video of the year award for her work on “luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
Notable wins also included Lou-Adriane Cassidy for francophone album of the year, Begonia and Bahamas tying for adult alternative album of the year, and Saukrates’ long-awaited victory for rap single of the year.
Maestro Fresh Wes marked his first Juno win since 1991 by clinching the children’s album of the year award, showcasing his enduring impact on Canadian music. His album, inspired by a popular Canadian children’s musician, highlights themes of family and time travel.
The Juno Awards gala celebrated diverse talents and recognized the outstanding contributions of artists across various music genres, solidifying their place in the Canadian music landscape.
