
This collaboration is part of the consistent efforts by the organization to uplift Indigenous artists and creators. This comradery was also demonstrated through the partnership between sponsors, The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), and the Junos. At this moment, any notion of “competition” had become obsolete, and the artists representing both Indigenous categories had unified to simply celebrate Indigenous excellence in Canada. Each and every artist was proudly taking up space in the Canadian music landscape that was rightfully theirs and had previously gone unappreciated by a national audience. The energy was palpable as Indigenous talent assembled on the red carpet with a uniform mission: to uplift our communal culture and craft. All this to say, after a two-year hiatus, the Juno’s triumphant return was championed by the artistry of our People. Traditional and Contemporary artists were previously included in the same group of nominees. Alongside the newly titled Traditional Indigenous Artist of the Year award came the Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year award sponsored by The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). The previous category of Indigenous Artist or Group of the Year was split in two this ceremony. In light of the growing demand for Indigenous art, the Juno’s program has evolved to highlight a broader range of the eclectic talent our community has to offer.

However, a major standout at this year’s event was more structural rather than individual in scope. From Marvel star, Simu Lui, to the human attached to Shawn Mendes’ exceptional hair and grin, there was no shortage of excitement. The red carpet at this year’s Juno Awards included some of the most prolific and noteworthy stars in the world of music and art.
