Owen Riegling Dominates 13th Annual CMAOntario Awards, Jason McCoy Honored with ‘The Real McCoy’ Award
Riegling Sweeps Top Honours in Hamilton
Hamilton, ON – The country music scene in Ontario shone brightly on Sunday, June 1, 2025, as the 13th Annual CMAOntario Awards, presented by Cowbell Brewing Co., celebrated the province’s brightest stars at The Music Hall. The night proved to be a landmark event for Owen Riegling, who emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, clinching an impressive five awards.
Riegling’s stellar performance included the coveted Male Artist of the Year award, recognizing his significant contribution to country music over the past year. His album, “Bruce County – From the beginning,” was celebrated as Album of the Year, a testament to his songwriting depth and artistic vision. Further cementing his success, Riegling also took home the Fans Choice Award, an honour reflecting his strong connection with the country music audience. His chart-topping single, “Moonshine,” was named Single of the Year, underscoring its widespread appeal and impact.
Adding to his remarkable haul, Riegling shared the Songwriter of the Year award for his hit “Moonshine” with co-writers Daryl Scott and Jesse Slack. This recognition highlights not only Riegling’s talent as a performer but also his prowess as a storyteller and craftsman of memorable lyrics.
Jason McCoy’s Final Hosting Appearance and Special Tribute
The evening also marked a significant moment for Canadian country music icon Jason McCoy, who hosted the CMAOntario Awards for the final time. In a heartfelt segment, McCoy was presented with a newly established accolade, The Real McCoy Award, by Slaight Music, celebrating his enduring legacy and profound influence on the genre.
The tribute to McCoy was further enhanced by a substantial contribution from the Slaight Family Foundation, which presented a $5,000 donation to a charity of McCoy’s choice, demonstrating their support for his philanthropic efforts. The emotional highlight of the tribute was a surprise performance featuring Tim Hicks and Clayton Bellamy. The duo joined McCoy on stage to perform his hit song “I Feel a Sin Comin’ On,” eliciting a thunderous ovation from the audience.
A Night of Diverse Performances and Industry Celebration
The 13th Annual CMAOntario Awards showcased a diverse array of talent, with numerous artists taking the stage to deliver memorable performances. The lineup featured captivating sets by Andrew Hyatt, Sacha, Nate Haller, Robyn Ottolini, Mackenzie Leigh Meyer, Amanda & James, Alexa Goldie, Mitch Jean, and The Western Swing Authority. Each performance contributed to the vibrant atmosphere and celebrated the breadth of country music talent originating from Ontario.
Beyond the awards ceremony, the CMAOntario Awards weekend served as a crucial hub for industry professionals and fans alike. The festivities included important industry events such as the R2i TuneUp Conference, which offers valuable insights and networking opportunities for artists and professionals, and the highly anticipated Songs and Stories: Songwriters in the Round, providing an intimate look at the creative process behind some of country music’s most beloved songs.
The CMAOntario Awards continue to solidify their position as a cornerstone event for celebrating and promoting country music talent within Ontario, fostering a strong sense of community and driving the genre forward.
