Saskatchewan has a rich history with country music, and the recent surge in its popularity is shining a spotlight on artists from the province. The upcoming Canadian Country Music Awards in Saskatoon will bring together country music stars from across Canada to celebrate their achievements.

Josh Stumpf, a 23-year-old from Prince Albert, started his musical journey by learning to play the guitar at church. After being recognized as the Emerging Artist of the Year by the Saskatchewan Country Music Association in 2024, Stumpf is now a nominee for two CCMAs.

Stumpf’s success is part of a larger trend in the country music scene. Recent data from Spotify shows a significant increase in Canadian country music’s global and domestic listenership. Stumpf acknowledges the positive impact of the genre’s resurgence on his career, expressing gratitude for the opportunities it has brought him.

As the industry experiences growth, industry experts like Ron Kitchener, president of Open Road Music, highlight the favorable conditions for artists to thrive. Kitchener points out the removal of traditional barriers and the diverse opportunities available in the evolving music landscape.

Technological advancements have also played a role in the genre’s expansion. The accessibility of music through digital platforms has exposed a new generation to a variety of musical influences. However, concerns about the authenticity of music creation have been raised, particularly with the rise of AI in songwriting.

Country Music Week in Saskatoon, leading up to the CCMA awards show, has been a hub of activity for country music enthusiasts. The event culminates on Saturday at the SaskTel Centre, where the country’s top talents will be recognized for their contributions to the industry.