Canadian pop sensation Justin Bieber, despite leading the Juno Awards nominations with six nods, left empty-handed at the recent Juno weekend gala. Pop star Tate McRae stole the spotlight, clinching four Juno Awards, 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, was co-hosted by Damhnait Doyle from CBC Music Mornings and Odario Williams from CBC Music Afterdark. A total of 47 awards were presented that night, featuring groundbreaking victories and several debut winners.
Both Bieber and McRae were absent from the gala, but they are still contenders for the TD Juno Fan Choice award, which will be announced at the Juno Awards ceremony on March 29. The event will unveil the remaining four awards.
Toronto’s R&B singer Daniel Caesar kicked off the night by winning the songwriter of the year award, surpassing competitors like Bieber, Tate McRae, the Beaches, and Jessie Reyez. Caesar, although not present, is set to receive the International Achievement Award at the Juno Awards and perform songs from his award-winning album “Son of Spergy.”
Aysanabee triumphed in the alternative album of the year and contemporary Indigenous artist of the year categories. During his acceptance speech for the latter, he acknowledged his all-female team, emphasizing their significant role in his success. Aysanabee hinted that it might be his final win in the category, expressing his intent to create space for other Indigenous artists in the future.
Billy Talent, the Toronto band, was honored with the Humanitarian Award for their charitable contributions over the past 25 years, supporting organizations like War Child and Kids Help Phone. The band’s drummer, Aaron Solowoniuk, diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at a young age, has been an advocate for the cause, raising substantial funds through his charity, F.U.MS.
In the rock music scene, The Beaches celebrated their win for rock album of the year with “No Hard Feelings,” expressing gratitude for the Canadian music community’s unwavering support. Meanwhile, Toronto’s Sadboi claimed the rap album/EP of the year award for her EP “Dry Cry,” sharing her pride in representing Canada.
Several first-time Juno winners emerged during the event. Notably, Toronto-based duo Kazdoura won their first Juno for global music album of the year. Aaron Paris secured his inaugural Juno for instrumental album of the year, and Debby Friday triumphed in the dance single of the year category with “Bet On Me.”
Filmmaker Karena Evans, renowned for her work with top artists like Drake and Kendrick Lamar, clinched the music video of the year award. Additionally, veteran hip-hop artist Saukrates finally seized his first Juno after 30 years, winning the rap single of the year award for his collaboration with Tobi and Jully Black.
Maestro Fresh Wes, a Canadian music icon, achieved victory in the children’s album of the year category, marking his first Juno win since 1991. The awards ceremony showcased a diverse range of talents and celebrated the rich tapestry of Canadian music.