James Barker Band To Host CCMA Awards

The chart-topping, multi-award-winning, five-time 2026 Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Award nominees James Barker Band will take the stage as hosts of the 2026 CCMA Awards.

The band was already going to perform at the show in Saskatoon on September 19 at 8 p.m. but will now lead the evening’s celebrations as well, all while vying for five of the night’s biggest honours: Entertainer of the Year, Ford F-150 Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Group or Duo of the Year, and Single of the Year.

The band will bring their signature humour, chemistry, and infectious energy to the hosting role, treating fans in Saskatoon and coast to coast to coast to an evening full of can’t miss moments.

“We’re fired up to be hosting the CCMA Awards this year. We’ve grown up watching this show and have been lucky enough to make so many great memories at the CCMAs over the years, so getting the chance to host and celebrate Canadian country music from the other side of the stage is pretty special. We’re excited to celebrate our friends, have some fun, and hopefully keep the whole thing on the rails. You never really know what could happen when you give the four of us microphones on live TV.”

Newly announced performers for the 2026 CCMA Awards include 2026 Gary Slaight Humanitarian Award recipient Brett Kissel, 3x CCMA Award winner and 2026 Female Artist of the Year nominee Madeline Merlo, 2x 2026 CCMA Award nominee including Fans’ Choice Tyler Joe Miller, and 2x 2026 CCMA Award nominee including a Female Artist of the Year nomination, Sacha.

The evening will also feature a special tribute performance that audiences won’t want to miss, honouring the enduring cultural influence and legacy of country music icon Dolly Parton through a medley of her classic hits.

Categorised in: Country Music News

This post was written by Cheryl Johnstone