2025 Polaris Music Prize Awards

September 16, 2025

Written by Imani Dominique (@imani.dominique)

Photography by Media Pass Emerging Artist Participants Polaris Team: Green Yang (@green__yang), Jaymie Harris (@creativeheartmedia), Kian Gannon (@kiangannonn), Rod Doost (@roddoost), and Jordon Bailey (@ jxrdnbailey).

The Polaris Music Prize Awards were a moving and resonant celebration of Canadian music in its most raw and authentic form. As one of the country’s leading music awards, Polaris stands apart by prioritizing artistic merit over commercial success. For the past 20 years, the Polaris Music Prize has honoured the most artistically significant albums and songs of the year.

It’s incredibly inspiring to see an awards ceremony that exists to recognize and amplify Canadian music based solely on its creativity, composition, and impact - beyond streams, publicity, or popularity. The 2025 show truly embodied that ethos.

This year, we were proud to partner with Polaris to offer five participants in our Emerging Artists Program unprecedented access to the event. Under the mentorship of Polaris’ official photographer, Wade Muir, they received hands-on guidance in capturing the night. They also had full access to the pit, backstage, floor, private industry events and more. The photography included in this article is their breathtaking work.

Title AND Banner Photography by Kian Gannon (@Kiangannon) BIBI CLUB SHOT BY GREEN YANG (@GREEN YANG) Nemahsis SHOT BY Kian Gannon (@Kiangannon)

Hosted by 2019 Polaris winner Haviah Mighty, the night was filled with electrifying performances from this year’s nominees: Marie Davidson, Yves Jarvis, Bibi Club, SAYA GRAY, The OBGMs, Ribbon Skirt, Nemahsis, and Lou-Adriane Cassidy. Each artist brought something distinctly their own to the stage, creating a lineup that spanned genres, generations, and geographies. From folk to punk, electronic to experimental pop, the show highlighted not only the range of Canadian music but also the voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream spaces. The jury, comprising over 250 members from across the country, reflected that same diversity, bringing thoughtful, informed perspectives to the table.

The evening opened with a rousing speech from Mayor Olivia Chow, followed by a high-energy techo, house music set from Marie Davidson that set the tone for the night. Yves Jarvis followed with a tender and introspective folk performance from his nominated album, starting with guitar and building into a hauntingly beautiful vocal set that captivated the entire room.

Bibi Club came next, delivering a fan-favourite performance that radiated chemistry, energy, and undeniable talent. Their presence was magnetic, and their set left a lasting impression.

SAYA GRAY brought a striking softness to the stage, performing in a kimono and weaving elements of her recent travels in Japan into a performance that felt deeply personal and ethereal. The OBGMs then flipped the energy with a powerful, punk-infused set that some on our team would argue was the best of the night. With commanding stage presence, a full band, and undeniable charisma, they transformed the room into a whirlwind of sound and movement.

Amber Still, Executive Director of Polaris, delivered a speech that touched on the history of the Prize and its future, emphasizing its ongoing mission to support independent and innovative Canadian artists. The Slaight Family Polaris Heritage Prize winners were also recognized, with Jane Siberry and Katie Sketch (The Organ) each giving heartfelt speeches after being chosen by public vote and the Heritage Jury, respectively. Ribbon Skirt followed with a beautifully crafted performance that further showcased the range of artistry in the room.

A highlight of the night came with two-time nominee Kelly McMichael announcing the launch of the Polaris Portal, a new, accessible platform where artists can submit their music for consideration by the Polaris jury.

Later in the evening, we had an eagerly anticipated performance by Nemahsis who performed a beautiful and moving song. This was followed by Population II, who added yet another layer to the night’s dynamic energy. Polaris juror Yara El-Soueidi spoke on Mustafa’s album and the impact that it had in the community. Lou-Adriane Cassidy closed the performance segment with an electrifying, genre-defying set that combined movement, voice, and charisma. Sung in French, her music brought a vibrant energy from Montreal, and she truly owned the stage from start to finish.

The SOCAN Polaris Song Prize was awarded to Mustafa, who was not able to attend the ceremony but sent his heartfelt thanks to the jury and supporters. Finally, the most anticipated moment of the evening arrived: the Polaris Music Prize Album of the Year, carrying a grand prize of $50,000 CAD. The award winner was Yves Jervis. He very graciously and humbly accepted the award and gave a beautiful speech thanking all his family, friends, and contributors, and inspiring the audience to pursue their dreams and goals.

The night concluded on a high note, full of celebration, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the art of music. It was more than just an award show; it was a moment that brought the Canadian music community together to honour the power of storytelling, sound, and self-expression.