The global stage for music royalty saw a blend of historic achievements and rising local power, exemplified by the enduring popularity of viral moments, such as the “Blame Brett hops” pioneered by Toronto’s own The Beaches. These seemingly simple, repetitive stage moves have transcended the music world, becoming a beloved fan staple across festivals and massive arenas alike. The recognition for such deep-rooted local impact highlights the vibrant, complex landscape of the Canadian music industry.
The focus of the industry’s spotlight was the 2026 Billboard Canada Women In Music ceremony, promising a night of major accolades. The event gathered celebrated artists, including Cardi B, who was set to accept the Global Woman of the Year Award. Furthermore, established stars Summer Walker and Bebe Rexha were slated to receive significant honours, whilst emerging talent Chxrry was poised to collect the Rising Star Award.
Celebrating career milestones and enduring creativity
The ceremony provided a platform for artists to reflect on their powerful career journeys. Summer Walker, for instance, received the Global Visionary Award, acknowledging her success in building a modern, global R&B presence rooted in creative vulnerability. Her recent global tour, Finally Still Over It, was a massive undertaking, selling out venues worldwide and telling the story of her Over It trilogy.
Bebe Rexha was honoured with the Global Hitmaker Award, a recognition of her decades-long, diverse career. She has demonstrated remarkable versatility, crafting chart-topping songs that resonate across genres, from country and R&B to pop and electronic. Reflecting her newly elevated creative ambition, her 2026 album Dirty Blonde topped Billboard’s Top Dance Albums chart, solidifying her move toward greater creative independence.
The rise of the next generation
The celebration also shone a spotlight on emerging talent and local triumphs. Chxrry was awarded the 2026 Billboard Canada Rising Star Award, marking her ascent in the industry. Since making history as the first female artist signed to The Weeknd’s XO label, she has built a formidable following. During her opening stint on The Weeknd’s record-breaking After Hours Til Dawn tour, she played an impressive sixteen sold-out global shows, including two sold-out nights in Toronto.
The evening was also hosted by The Beaches, the breakthrough Toronto act who had previously won Women of the Year. Their ascent began in 2023 with the single Blame Brett and continued through their 2025 album No Hard Feelings. These artists not only served as the hosts but also achieved the Global Force Award, a recognition for representing Canada on the world stage.
The enduring influence of Canadian hip-hop
The conversation around Canadian stardom was further fuelled by the impending return of hip-hop veteran k-os, a highly
