Jeremy Dutcher and Classified lead East Coast Music Award nominees

New Heights for East Coast Music Awards: Classified and Jeremy Dutcher Lead Nominations

The East Coast Music Awards have just announced their contenders for this year, marking a fresh start for the organization after a period of turmoil. Leading the pack with an impressive eight nominations each are hip-hop artist Classified and Wolastoqiyik tenor and composer Jeremy Dutcher. Following closely behind are Kellie Loder, Jah’Mila, Maggie Andrew, and Vishtèn, each earning five nominations.

The awards festivities are scheduled to take place in St. John’s from May 7 to 11, marking the city’s return to hosting duties after a decade-long hiatus.

Earlier this year, the East Coast Music Association (ECMA) underwent significant changes with the dismissal of their chief executive, Blanche Israël, by the board of directors. This move came after disagreements over the future direction of the awards and the organization’s administration.

An online petition spearheaded by the ECMA’s founding director, Sheri Jones, called for “transparency and stability” amidst a flurry of changes that impacted the awards and its associated festival. Jones highlighted the lack of consultation with board members regarding these changes, stating, “There were major changes happening, and no one was aware of how those had been made or even that they had been made.”

In response, Israël defended her decisions, emphasizing that all changes had received board approval and were aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the East Coast music community. Despite this, a misalignment in views ultimately led to her dismissal.

Classified’s latest album, “Luke’s View,” garnered multiple nominations including Album of the Year, Producer of the Year, and Rap/Hip-Hop Release of the Year. Jeremy Dutcher, on the other hand, received nods for Classical Composer of the Year, Roots Release of the Year, and Solo Artist of the Year for his acclaimed album “Motewolonuwok,” which clinched the 2024 Polaris Music Prize.

“East Coast musicians are a powerhouse of talent, blending rich traditions with innovative sounds that not only define the cultural fabric of the region but also shape and elevate Canada’s music scene,” remarked Michelle Eagles, chair of ECMA’s board of directors.

For a complete list of nominees, visit the official ECMA website.