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On March 29, Mae Martin will host the 55th Juno Awards in Hamilton at the newly opened TD Coliseum.
The Toronto comedian, actor, podcaster and singer-songwriter “brings a sharp, original voice to the Junos stage,” said Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences CEO Allan Reid in a statement.
Martin is known for their television work, namely Wayward, co-starring Toni Collette and Feel Good, as well as their comedy podcast Handsome with Tig Natoro and Fortune Feimster. They also released their debut music album, I am a TV, last February.
WATCH | Mae Martin shares their Ultimate Canadian Playlist:
“I’m unbelievably honoured to be hosting the Junos this year. Canada’s biggest night in music! No pressure, just decades of iconic artists,” Martin said in a press release. “The Junos have always been about celebrating artists who are bold, genre-defying, and unafraid to be a little weird, so I’ll try to embody those qualities as your host! Getting to celebrate Canadian artists on this scale feels so thrilling and a little surreal. Thanks to the Junos for trusting me with this!”
Daniel Caesar and William prince will perform
Two-time Juno winner and worldwide R&B star Daniel Caesar will receive the international achievement award, which has previously gone to Boi-1da, Shawn Mendes, Drake and Céline Dion.
WATCH | Daniel Caesar wins his first Juno for R&B recording of the year in 2018:
The Best Part singer is receiving the honour in recognition of his global impact through chart-topping releases and sold-out international tours. Caesar will also take the stage for a special performance during the broadcast.
William Prince, another two-time Juno winner whose 2024 album Stand in the Joy won contemporary roots album of the year, will also be performing.
WATCH | William Prince performs with Serena Ryder at the 2021 Juno Awards:
Prince and Caesar join the previously announced performers the Beaches and Arkells.
As well, Joni Mitchell will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award and Nelly Furtado will be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
At the Juno Awards Gala on March 28, pop punk band Billy Talent will receive the humanitarian award for their philanthropic and community-focused endeavours.
Since the band’s drummer Aaron Solowoniuk was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2006, Billy Talent has held benefit concerts and raised money for MS research.
Recipients for the Walt Grealis special achievement award were also announced today: the late Alexander Mair, Sandy Pandya and Vinny Cinquemani. The award goes to industry leaders who have made a lasting impact on Canadian music.
In the lead up to the Juno Awards, venues across Hamilton will put on shows as part of JunoFest and the first round of performers includes Ammoye, Bells Larsen, Billianne, Cam Kahin, Grae, JayWood, Jordan Astra, Katie Tupper, Lu Kala, Myst Milano, Rachel Bobbitt, Shawnee Kish, Sister Ray, Status/Non-Status, Tedy and many more.