The organizers of the Juno Awards, the largest music awards program in Canada, say they plan to present the Latin music recording of the year in the 2026 edition.
The new category will recognize Canadian musicians in all Latin American languages and genres who have released music in the eligible year.
It is the last movement of Junos to diversify how Canadian creators recognize and the evolutionary national music scene.
Last year, Junos added a category of music in southern Asia, while in 2022 he divided the indigenous category into two to honor contemporary and traditional indigenous artists.
Another adjustment is being made to rap categories, which responds to clarity on the participation of Canadian MC.
The revised rules affirm that for eligible launches in the Single and Rap rap album or EP categories, at least 50 percent of the voices must be interpreted by Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
The 2026 Junos will take place in Hamilton with the main program transmitted from the Hamilton Arena, previously FIRSTANTIARY CENTER, which is finishing a renewal of $ 290 million.
Juno’s 20th week is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 to Sunday, March 29.
The event will culminate with the 55th Annual Awards of Juno, the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (Faces).
In March, the president and CEO of Faces, Allan Reid, said that Hamilton’s dynamic music scene and the rich cultural heritage make it “an ideal place” for the awards.
“We are delighted to return to Hamilton and be one of the first events in the newly renewed Arena in the center of Hamilton,” Reid said in the statement.
“The city and the province of Ontario continue to show their passion for music and arts. We are anxious for 2026”.
A city spokesman told CBC News that the city’s contribution to the event will be $ 500,000, from a reserve dedicated to conventions, sports and events, while an additional $ 300,000 of the Hamilton Tourism Development Corporation will be contributed.
Hamilton was the host of Junos in 2015.
