The 13th annual Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAOntario) Awards saw a dominant performance from Mildmay native Owen Riegling, who took home a remarkable five trophies on Sunday, June 1, 2025. The prestigious event, held at the Music Hall in Hamilton, celebrated the best of Ontario’s country music scene, with Riegling emerging as the night’s biggest winner.
A Triumphant Evening for Riegling
Riegling’s impressive haul included the coveted Single of the Year and Album of the Year awards, as well as Songwriter of the Year and Male Artist of the Year. This marks a significant achievement, particularly his second consecutive win for Male Artist of the Year, underscoring his consistent impact and popularity within the genre. Further cementing his status, Riegling also clinched the 2025 Fans’ Choice Award, demonstrating a strong connection with the country music audience.
His wins for Single of the Year and Songwriter of the Year were both in recognition of his hit song “Moonshines.” The track, lauded for its lyrical depth and compelling storytelling, was co-written by Riegling alongside Daryl Scott and Jesse Slack, showcasing a collaborative spirit in his songwriting success.
Recognizing Ontario’s Country Talent
The CMAOntario Awards are a cornerstone event for the province’s country music artists, celebrating excellence across various categories. This year’s ceremony highlighted the diverse talent emerging from Ontario, with several artists receiving well-deserved accolades.
Elyse Saunders, hailing from Peterborough, earned the Music Video of the Year award for her engaging song “Never Have I Ever.” Her visual storytelling captivated audiences and judges alike, marking a significant moment in her career.
In a notable addition to the awards program, the inaugural Real McCoy Award was presented. This new honor, named after Canadian country music legend Jason McCoy, is designed to recognize artists who embody exceptional qualities of compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to their craft. The introduction of this award signifies a deepening appreciation for the values that drive artists beyond mere commercial success.
Future of CMAOntario
Looking ahead, the CMAOntario Festival & Awards Weekend is set to be hosted in Mississauga next year, promising another vibrant celebration of Ontario country music. The move to a new location indicates the continued growth and evolution of the association and its signature event.
Robyn Ottolini of Uxbridge was also a significant winner, taking home the Female Artist of the Year award. Her win further highlights the strong female voices contributing to the rich tapestry of Canadian country music.
Owen Riegling’s outstanding performance at the 2025 CMAOntario Awards solidifies his position as a leading figure in contemporary country music. His multiple wins, particularly the repeat Male Artist of the Year honor and the Fans’ Choice Award, are a testament to his talent, hard work, and the deep appreciation he has garnered from both his peers and the listening public. The success of “Moonshines” and his comprehensive recognition at the awards ceremony set a high bar for future achievements in his promising career.
