Here are your 2022 Canadian Folk Music Award winners so far
The first round of Canadian Folk Music Awards were handed out Friday night in Charlottetown, PEI, the first time since 2019 that they’ve been handed out at an in-person awards show.
Charlottetown waited a very long time to have their moment in the spotlight, and so far, they’re looking great.
Ably hosted by CFMA stalwart Benoit Bourque and Twin Flame Chelsey June, the show opened with the charming and funny B.C. ensemble the Fugitives, who did a three-song set including the moving “The Next Man Who Dies” from their latest album Trench Songs, which is comprised of songs by First World War soldiers.
Global roots winner Elage Diouf and Montreal singer-songwriter Rob Lutes both joined the proceedings virtually, with Elage doing spectacularly-produced performances of “Boulma Sori” and “Cool Fine Nice.”
Nicolas Boulerice, renowned for his work with Le Vent du Nord, performed a set of his solo material before presenting the Slaight Music Unsung Hero Award to his partner in business and life, Geneviève Nadeau. And the Polish band Polky brought the house down with their tribute to Ukraine.
Chesley and musical partner Jaaji closed the show with a Twin Flames set.
We’ll bring you more extensive coverage after tonight’s show when the rest of the awards are handed out, but here’s who’s taken them home so far.
Young Performer of the Year – Isabella Samson
Children’s Album of the Year – Splash’N Boots for Heart Parade
Ensemble of the Year – Elliott Brood for Keeper
French Songwriter(s) of the Year – Reney Ray
Vocal Group of the Year – Twin Flames (Chelsey June et Jaaji) for Omen
The Slaight Music Unsung Hero Award – Geneviève Nadeau
Traditional Singer of the Year – Ewelina Ferenc of Polky for Songs From Home
Traditional Album of the Year – Kitchen Days by Braden Gates
Global Roots Album of the Year – Wutiko by Elage Diouf
Single of the Year – “Gospel First Nation” by William Prince
