A New Beat for Canada: JUNO Awards Introduce South Asian Music Category

JUNO Awards 2025 Celebrate the Growing Influence of South Asian Music

Tonight on CBC, the JUNO Awards make an exciting advancement with the introduction of a new category: Best South Asian Music of the Year. This meaningful recognition celebrates the creativity and momentum emerging from Canada’s South Asian music scene—one that has been building for years and now takes center stage during the country’s biggest music night.

Canada's Punjabi Music Scene is Thriving

From Brampton to Surrey, and Toronto to Calgary, a wave of talented artists like AP Dhillon, Karan Aujla, Shubh, and Ikky is reshaping the sound of modern Canadian music. These artists, many of whom produce and perform right here in Canada, are attracting global audiences and elevating Punjabi and South Asian sounds into the mainstream—blending tradition with innovation in powerful new ways.

A Milestone for Representation in Canadian Music

This new JUNO category isn't about drawing lines—it’s about highlighting the richness of Canada’s music landscape. South Asian artists are part of the vibrant cultural mosaic that makes Canadian music so unique. By recognizing their work in a dedicated category, the JUNOs are not only celebrating artistic excellence but also encouraging more voices, perspectives, and diversity in the music industry.

Tapping Into New Markets, Fueling Creative Growth

This recognition coincides with Canada becoming increasingly connected to the global music economy. The rising popularity of South Asian music—particularly Punjabi hip-hop, R&B, and pop—is creating opportunities for new markets, collaborations, and creative possibilities. Supporting this growth is sensible not only from a cultural standpoint but also from an economic perspective.

A Step Toward a More Inclusive Music Industry

Creating space for South Asian artists strengthens the foundation of Canadian music. It signals to young artists and fans alike that there’s room for everyone and that every story has a place in our national soundtrack. As the music industry continues to evolve, embracing our full diversity will be key to remaining relevant and resilient.

Bringing Canadians Together, One Beat at a Time

This new category celebrates what Canadian music has always done best—bringing people together. As audiences across the country tune in tonight, they will witness a JUNO Awards show that continues to evolve with the times and embraces the full range of talent this country offers.

When we support each other’s voices, we all rise.

United we stand.