Sarah McLachlan, folk artist Allison Russell, and up-and-coming country singer Cameron Whitcomb are set to take the stage at the 55th Juno Awards in Hamilton on March 29. McLachlan and Russell will unite for a special performance honoring Joni Mitchell, who is slated to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award this year. The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences highlighted Mitchell’s significant contributions to music and songwriting globally.
Mitchell, a five-time Juno awardee, clinched the best vocal jazz album award for her 2001 release, “Both Sides Now.” Both McLachlan and Russell have been part of the “Joni Jam” live band, a group put together by Brandi Carlile to accompany Mitchell post her 2015 brain aneurysm. Russell delivered a rendition of “Both Sides, Now” at the 2025 SOCAN Awards, where Mitchell was honored with the Global Impact Award. McLachlan often includes Mitchell’s songs in her live performances, notably “River,” featured on her 2006 album “Wintersong.”
Cameron Whitcomb, hailing from Nanaimo, B.C., will make his Juno debut this year with five nominations, closely trailing Tate McRae and Justin Bieber. Whitcomb will showcase tracks from his nominated album, “The Hard Way.” His journey began following his appearance on American Idol in 2022, and he has since amassed a following drawn to his candid and emotionally resonant take on country music. Reflecting on his personal struggles, Whitcomb shared his story of overcoming addiction and channeling his experiences into his music.
McLachlan, Russell, and Whitcomb will join previously announced performers such as the Beaches, Arkells, William Prince, and Daniel Caesar. The Juno Week Kickoff concert lineup, scheduled for March 26, includes James Barker Band, Robyn Ottolini, Sacha, Kalsey Kulyk, and the Redhill Valleys. Additionally, Junofest, a two-night concert series presented by CBC on March 27 and 28, will feature nearly 70 artists like Great Lake Swimmers, Katie Tupper, Sebastian Gaskin, and Terra Lightfoot across various venues in Hamilton. A special ceremony on the morning of March 28 will pay homage to Indigenous music talents, with performances by Little Creek Singers, Siibii, and YB Nakota.
