The fifth annual Capital Music Awards highlighted Ottawa’s music scene with a sold-out show at the Bronson Centre Music Theatre.
The show, hosted by the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition (OMIC), has been held each year since 2020, celebrating many different genres including alt-pop, blues, folk, rap and funk-soul.
The night featured performances from Pony Girl, The Lionyls, Amanda Rheaume, LeFlofranco and J Morris.
JUNO award-winner Angelique Francis hosted and performed, referring to her role as “an incredible privilege.”
“It was an honour to be the host of this year’s awards,” Francis said. “This experience has provided artists with invaluable opportunities for growth and connection. Events like these are crucial in fostering both personal and collective success within Ottawa’s musical landscape.”
Francis also spoke about how Ottawa’s homegrown music scene is growing.
“I am truly grateful for the chance to contribute to this celebration of our local talent, and to further strengthen the bonds that unite as us as a thriving musical community,” Francis said.
The show gave out 13 awards ranging from video of the year to music educator of the year.
Five awards were voted on by the public and OMIC reported they received a record-breaking 2,045 public votes.
The live show this past Thursday was in front of more than 700 attendees, including Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe who spoke about the importance of music in Ottawa’s growing entertainment scene.
“Our music scene is growing and it’s thanks to all of you,” Sutcliffe said.
“For Ottawa, the best is yet to come.”
Among the winners were best new artist Hannah Big; N’Nerjie claiming songwriter of the year for Tug of War and the popular band Pony Girl for the single of the year, Laff It Off.
A full list of the winners and nominees can be found on the OMIC’s website.
![The Ottawa sign lit up at nighttime in the ByWard Market. [Photo courtesy Juliana Italiano]](https://capitalcurrent.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Ottawa-night-sign-250x141.jpg)
