On May 15, for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the JUNO Awards will take place in front of a live audience.
After 11 years of supporting Canada's biggest night in music, this year, TD will serve as the JUNOS' Premier Sponsor, in addition to powering the 2022 JUNOS' Submission Access Program. Created to support Canadian indie-artists from underrepresented communities, the Submission Access Program funded more than 200 artist submissions – three of whom are first-time JUNO nominees: the Manitou Mkwa Singers, Ceréna and Adrian Sutherland.
The Manitou Mkwa Singers is a family hand drum group from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation who sing traditional pow-wow and round dance songs and raise awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), water ways, intergenerational healing and bringing traditions back to their community. The group is nominated for Traditional Indigenous Artist or Group of the Year for their album Manitou Mkwa Singers II.
Ceréna, who has embraced her uniqueness and immersed herself in Toronto's LGBTQ2+ community, released her first trailblazing single "See," less than a year ago and is nominated for Dance Recording of the Year.
Adrian Sutherland, a roots-rock recording artist from Attawapiskat First Nation, recorded his debut solo album When The Magic Hits during the pandemic. Before he could begin the recording, Adrian had to first convert a shipping container into a homemade studio, as he lives in a fly-in, remote community. Adrian is nominated for Contemporary Indigenous Artist or Group of the Year.
"Canadian music is extremely powerful. It helps us to connect with one another, discover new ideas and embrace the power of diversity," Michael Armstrong, VP, Marketing, Brand and Corporate Sponsorships, said.
"With our passion for music and culture, TD is proud to help Canadians connect with the incredible wealth of talent across the country. At TD, we believe the JUNOS help spark a sense of community, empower artists and inspire change."
TD Stories connected with Ceréna, the Manitou Mkwa Singers and Adrian Sutherland to learn more about what their 2022 JUNO nominations mean to them.