TORONTO – The SOCAN Foundation today announced the launch of the Black Canadian Music Awards, in partnership with SiriusXM Canada.
The awards will recognize and celebrate the artistic merit demonstrated by Black music creators (songwriters, composers, producers, etc.) in all genres, says the press release. The inaugural awards will be presented virtually in 2020, and winners will be selected by a jury and advisory council of prominent Black artists and industry leaders, including DJ Agile as the inaugural Chair of the jury.
“The Black Canadian Music Awards are part of the SOCAN Foundation’s efforts toward advancing equity in the Canadian music industry by collaboratively creating opportunities to celebrate Black music creators. Our ongoing aim is to build inclusive programming as diverse as the communities in which we live, and this new award pushes us even further ahead,” said Charlie Wall-Andrews, executive director of the SOCAN Foundation.
“Furthermore, we cannot lose momentum to elevate communities impacted by ongoing and historical injustices. We acknowledge that there is still much more work to do, and we hope this award will celebrate and empower Black music creators in Canada.”
Five winners will be selected to each receive a $5,000 award, which is being funded by SiriusXM Canada.
“There need to be more opportunities for Black music creators, and we’re committed to supporting this vital community,” said Kayla J. Schwartz, senior manager, communications & Canadian content development, SiriusXM Canada.
Please click here to learn about the awards and to apply.
