The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) reversed its decision to remove the reggae, gospel, and children’s categories from the JUNO Awards after significant backlash. The initial removal, announced in early September, sparked a debate within the Canadian music industry, particularly due to the importance of these genres to Black communities. In response to criticism, CARAS reinstated the categories and added new ones, including Songwriter of the Year and South Asian Recording of the Year, aiming to better reflect the diversity of Canadian music. The 2025 JUNO Awards will be held in Vancouver.

Mayor Olivia Chow and the City of Toronto have declared June 2024 as Black Music Month, recognizing the influence of Black music on Canadian culture. This follows a request from the Canada Black Music Archives, which preserves contributions from African Canadian and Caribbean musicians. The proclamation honors artists like Michie Mee, Kardinal Offishall, Drake, and the Weeknd.

Canadian music history took a hit this week with the passing of Canadian jazz legend, Eleanor Collins. Often coined as Canadas answer to Ella Fitzgerald, Collins bellowing, blissful notes have made her one of Canada’s most formidable talents. She passed away Sunday, March 3rd, 2024, at the age of 104.

Aiming to research, document, and preserve, the Canada Black Music Archives is a digital platform that’s mission is to expose the important contributions of Black Canadians. Many know the mega stars who have spotlighted the countries musical talents, but may not know those who represent the Black roots of the genres these artists stemmed from. The Michigan Chronicle takes a look at the importance of the CBMA and its collection of music, photographs, biographies, historical documents, and more.

The Canada Black Music Archives (CBMA), featured in The Globe and Mail, digitally preserves and showcases the often-overlooked contributions of Black Canadians to the country’s music, emphasizing accessibility, inclusivity, and educational value.

On the memorable night of November 23rd, the City of Toronto Archives hosted a celebration centred around the impactful work being carried out at the CBMA, coupled with a joyous celebration of Black Canadian music, and the evening commenced with words of gratitude from the executive director of the CBMA, extending thanks to everyone for joining the journey towards a better understanding, appreciation, and a stronger sense of identity for Black Canadian musicians.

Earlier this year the United Nations adopted a Draft Resolution at its 92nd Plenary Meeting, declaring that “World Steelpan Day” was to be observed annually on August 11th on the UN calendar. Now, just what could be so special about this instrument that it would deserve such an honor?

On August 11, 1973, inside the recreation room at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in an apartment building in the Bronx, New York, 18-year-old Jamaican-born Clive Campbell, aka DJ Kool Herc, used two turntables looping high energy breaks to create a mix and that became the basis for what we now call hip-hop.

The City of Toronto proclaimed June 2023 as Black Music Month. The proclamation was issued by Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie on behalf of Toronto City Council. The 2023 proclamation was made in response to a request by the Canada Black Music Archives (CBMA) to continue to honour Black Canadian musicians in Toronto.