By Wayne Baggs
Ontario’s country music community gathered on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at The Music Hall in Hamilton for the 13th annual CMAOntario Awards, capping off the CMAOntario Festival & Awards Weekend (May 30–June 1) presented by Cowbell Brewing Co.
The evening saw Owen Riegling dominating the night, earning five major accolades: Single of the Year (“Moonshines”), Album of the Year (“Bruce County”), Male Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year (for “Moonshines”), and the coveted Fan’s Choice Award
Longtime host Jason McCoy of The Road Hammers bid farewell after 12 years emceeing the show. In his honor, the CMAOntario introduced the inaugural Real McCoy Award, celebrating integrity and passion within Ontario’s country music scene—McCoy was the first-ever recipient. A surprise tribute by Tim Hicks and Clayton Bellamy preceded McCoy joining them onstage for a performance of his hit “I Feel a Sin Comin’ On”
Other honorees included Robyn Ottolini (Female Artist of the Year), The Redhill Valleys (Group/Duo of the Year), Sully Burrows (Breakthrough Artist), and Kristine St‑Pierre (Francophone Artist). Industry stalwarts like Adam Newcomb and Jeff Brown also earned accolades in producer and musician categories, respectively.
Hosted amid festival highlights—including the R2i conference, open stages, and the Bonfire showcase—the Awards Weekend underscored Hamilton’s rising status as Ontario’s country music hub.
BKonthescene 