Cape Breton’s Goldie Boutilier leads 2026 East Coast Music Award nominations

The East Coast Music Awards have revealed this year’s nominees.

The nominees for the 2026 East Coast Music Awards (ECMA) were officially revealed during a press conference in Sydney, N.S.

The announcement kicks off what’s expected to be a five-day celebration of East Coast music, culture and industry, as East Coast Music Week takes over Sydney from May 20 to 24. The 38th annual ECMA Awards Gala will take place on May 21, hosted by Cape Breton favourites Bette MacDonald and Maynard Morrison

Leading this year’s nominations is Goldie Boutilier with seven nods, coming on the heels of a recent Juno nomination. Daniel James McFadyen follows with six nominations, while Cassie and Maggie and Mallory Johnson earned five each.

The event also marks a new chapter for the East Coast Music Association, with longtime music advocate and Great Big Sea co-founder Bob Hallett stepping into the role of executive director.

“I’ve been involved with the East Coast music world for over 30 years,” said Hallett in an interview with CTV Atlantic. “As somebody who’s been a supporter and has made my life in music in this region, when this job became available, it was calling to me.”

Hallett says East Coast Music Week continues to serve as a global marketplace for East Coast talent.

“This is a place where we gather together the best music, the best musicians and the best industry professionals in this region, and we create a marketplace,” said Hallett. “We have buyers coming from all across the country and all around the world - and they’re looking for talent. They’re looking for something new, and they’re looking for something great. And we know we’ve got that.”

Hallett says that whether you’re an artist, industry professional or fan, the week offers something for everyone.

“Everyone who comes to this – whether it’s the gala, a showcase, a conference session, a meeting, or just hanging around – they’re going to get something out of this,” said Hallett. “My job is to make that happen.”

A full list of nominees is available online.