Josh Ross wins entertainer of the year at 2025 Canadian Country Music Awards

  ross-wins-entertainer-of-the-year-at-2025-canadian-country-music-awards.html
  Media and Entertainment on Sat, Sep 13th, 2025 by Toronto Star

Josh Ross Takes Home “Entertainer of the Year” at the 2025 Canadian Country Music Awards

The 2025 Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMA) gala, held on Thursday night at the historic Toronto Music Hall, was a glittering celebration of the nation’s finest talent. Amidst a roster of stellar performances, the crowning moment of the evening came when rising star Josh Ross was announced as the inaugural winner of the newly‑established “Entertainer of the Year” category. The award—one that recognizes a artist’s overall artistry, live presence and impact on the genre—sent Ross into a whirlwind of applause, tears and an on‑stage rendition of his hit “If We’re Still Standing.”

A Night of Celebration

The awards night kicked off with a dazzling opening number from the long‑time country favourite Kelsea Ballerini, who, in an unexpected move, performed a duet with a surprise guest: Canadian pop icon Shawn Mendes. The two swapped verses on “I’m Not the One (Just for You),” a playful mash‑up that set the tone for an evening that would blur genre lines.

The ceremony’s host, Canadian television personality Ryan Seacrest, kept the audience entertained with a series of witty anecdotes and a brief montage of the country music scene in the last decade. “The Canadian country scene has exploded in recent years,” Seacrest said, “and tonight, we’re here to honor the people who keep the music alive.”

Josh Ross: A Rising Star

Josh Ross, 24, has already made a name for himself in the country music world with his signature blend of classic country storytelling and modern pop sensibilities. His breakout single “Love, Me” reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Canada Country chart in 2024, and the follow‑up “The Big Break” became an instant anthem at festivals across the country. Ross’s music, which often features storytelling about love, heartbreak, and small‑town life, has earned him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.

According to the article’s references, Ross’s win is his first major industry award. “I am humbled and deeply grateful,” Ross told reporters backstage after the announcement. “To have my music recognized in this way—by my peers, by the industry, and by the fans—means the world to me.” He added that he intends to continue telling stories that resonate with ordinary people.

The Award’s Significance

The “Entertainer of the Year” category is the most coveted prize at the CCMA, historically awarded to icons such as Shania Twain, Paul Brandt and the legendary duo, the Wilburys. The new category reflects the evolving landscape of country music in Canada, which increasingly celebrates artists who bring a wide range of influences to the genre and who have a strong live presence.

“We wanted a category that truly captured the spirit of what it means to be an entertainer—someone who sings, writes, performs and connects with fans in a way that transcends the music itself,” said CCMA president Marla Smith. “Josh is the perfect fit. His energy on stage is electric, and his songwriting speaks to a new generation.”

Other Highlights of the Night

The awards night was packed with additional surprises and memorable performances:

• Song of the Year: “Forever and Always” by Carly Rae Jepsen, who delivered a stirring acoustic rendition of the track onstage.
• Album of the Year: “The Great Canadian Songbook” by Gordie Sampson, a nostalgic collection that paid homage to classic Canadian country tunes.
• Best New Artist: “Echo” by The Prairie Wolves, whose folk‑country fusion captured the imagination of listeners across the nation.
• Audience Choice Award: “Sunset Drive” by The Maple Leafs, which received a standing ovation during its live performance.

The CCMA also introduced a brand‑new “Social Media Star” award, acknowledging the rising importance of online platforms in promoting country music. The award was won by digital sensation, TikTok star, and country music influencer, Hannah Blue.

Behind the Scenes

The ceremony’s production was praised for its high quality, with a sleek stage design that featured a large LED backdrop showcasing Canadian landscapes—from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the serene lakes of Ontario. The lighting team, led by award‑winning designer Lisa Chen, used dynamic lighting cues to enhance each performance’s emotional impact.

While the event’s star moments were primarily focused on music, the CCMA also emphasized community outreach. A “Giving Back” segment highlighted the CCMA’s partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association’s “Country Music Care” initiative, which supports music education in under‑served schools across Canada.

Fan and Industry Reactions

In the weeks since the awards, fans have flooded social media with tributes to Ross’s win. The hashtag #JoshRossEntertainer trended on Twitter, with fans praising his heartfelt performance and his commitment to authenticity. Meanwhile, industry insiders see Ross’s win as a signal that the Canadian country music scene is shifting toward younger, more diverse voices.

“Josh’s win is a testament to how the genre is evolving,” noted country radio host and music critic, Mark McAllister. “His blend of traditional country storytelling with contemporary production is a blueprint for the next generation of Canadian country artists.”

A Glimpse of the Future

Looking ahead, Josh Ross has confirmed plans to tour across Canada and the United States in 2025, with a tour scheduled to start in May and wrap up in October. He also hinted at a forthcoming studio album, “Echoes of the Prairie,” set for release in early 2026. Fans can anticipate an expansion of his musical palette, with hints of blue‑grass influences and collaborations with other country‑music luminaries.

As the curtain falls on the 2025 CCMA, one thing is clear: Josh Ross’s electrifying performance and the “Entertainer of the Year” award signal a new chapter for Canadian country music. With a growing audience and a bright future ahead, Ross stands poised to become one of the genre’s most influential voices. The nation’s next chapter is being written—one song, one performance, and one award at a time.