Justin Bieber, despite being a top nominee with six nods at the Juno weekend, did not secure any wins during the gala. Tate McRae, another pop sensation, dominated the event by 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, hosted by CBC Music’s Damhnait Doyle and Odario Williams, took place on March 28. A total of 47 awards were presented that night, with notable wins and new recipients making their mark.
Neither Bieber nor McRae attended the gala to witness their results. They are still contenders for the TD Juno Fan Choice at the upcoming Juno Awards on March 29, where the remaining four awards will be distributed.
Toronto’s R&B singer Daniel Caesar kicked off the event by winning the songwriter of the year award. Caesar, absent from the ceremony, will be performing at the Juno Awards while receiving the International Achievement Award for his 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 stated that he won’t participate in that category again to make room for other Indigenous artists.
Billy Talent was honored with the Humanitarian Award for their charitable work over the past 25 years. The band’s contributions to various organizations, including War Child and Kids Help Phone, were acknowledged, with drummer Aaron Solowoniuk’s battle with Multiple Sclerosis adding a personal touch to their humanitarian efforts.
The Beaches celebrated their win for rock album of the year, emphasizing their love for the Canadian music scene and the support they receive in their home country. Sadboi, a Toronto artist, won the rap album/EP of the year and expressed her pride in being recognized in Canada.
Several first-time winners were also celebrated at the Juno Awards. Kazdoura, a Toronto-based duo, won their first Juno for global music album of the year. Aaron Paris received his first Juno for instrumental album of the year, while Debby Friday triumphed in the dance single of the year category.
Filmmaker Karena Evans won the music video of the year award and acknowledged the influence of Canadian artists on her career. Cameron Whitcomb’s debut album, “The Hard Way,” was named country album of the year, marking his first Juno win.
Hip-hop veterans Saukrates, Tobi, and Jully Black had a memorable moment as they won the rap single of the year award after decades in the industry. Maestro Fresh Wes also claimed victory in the children’s album of the year category after a long hiatus from his last Juno win in 1991.
The Juno Awards gala showcased a diverse range of talent and recognized both established and emerging artists, highlighting the vibrancy of the Canadian music industry.
