CCMA Awards Rules and Regulations (2017)

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) for a Canadian country album, which was released for mass public consumption in its entirety, within the current eligibility period. An album is defined as a collection of several pieces of music made available as a single item. The album can be a special project or commemorative package. Voters and jury members should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to, market impact (e.g. sales, spins, YouTube views), artistic performance, production, design, art layout and liner notes. This award is for an album as a whole unit.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• An album is considered released on the first available date that the material can be possessed, by mass consumers, via a purchase in its entirety and/or streamed legally in its entirety by a royalty-generating service. The primary source used to determine this information is via iTunes;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Contenders in the Second Step of the selection process are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, in order to move on as one of the final five (5) nominees in the Third (and final) Ballot;
• The album must contain a minimum of six (6) tracks;
• 50% of the tracks must have been released during the current eligibility period, having never appeared on a previous album;
• Final nominees from the previous year are not eligible in the current year for the same product.

SELECTION PROCESS

                The Album of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will proceed to STEP TWO, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will proceed to STEP TWO;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will judge the submissions to determine the final five (5) nominees, which will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Album of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

This award is presented to one act (solo, duo or group) that participated in the current year’s CCMA Discovery Program.

ELIGIBILITY

• The act must have participated in the current year’s CCMA Discovery Program. Click here for more details on the CCMA Discovery Program;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• All members of the act must be the age of majority, or older, in their province or territory of residence, as of the first day of Music Industry Discovery Week (May 7, 2017);
• All finalists are required to be members of the CCMA in good standing. Within a group/duo, 50% of the members must be members of the CCMA.

SELECTION PROCESS

• The six (6) finalists will be judged on the following criteria:
  • Written Assignment (10%);
  • Panel Interview Session (20%);
  • Country Music Week Discovery Showcase Performance (70%).

CCMA AWARD

• The CCMA Discovery Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) displaying the greatest achievements, in all aspects of the entertainment field, within the current eligibility period. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including, but not limited to recorded performance, video(s), social media presence, staging, public acceptance, attitude, leadership and overall contributions to the Canadian country music image.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• All final nominees are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing by June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Fans’ Choice Award follows a two (2) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – The final five (5) nominees for the Fans’ Choice Award will be determined by the following formula:
  • Spins: 20% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Spins: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016);
  • Sales: 40% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Sales: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016).

These results will be compiled by Nielsen Entertainment. The five (5) nominees will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;

• STEP TWO (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The public will also have the opportunity to vote for their favourite nominee, through an online ballot coordinated with the CCMA Award Program’s Third (and final) Ballot. The public vote will be open from Wednesday July 12, 2017 until Friday September 8, 2017. The public vote tally and membership vote tally will be combined, and the nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner, during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Fans’ Choice Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

This award is presented to an individual female artist in the Canadian country music industry displaying the greatest achievements within the current eligibility period. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to success at radio, sales of pre-recorded music, live concert ticket sales and vocal performances.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The female artist must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Female Artist of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – The top ten (10) contenders for the Female Artist of the Year Award will be determined by the following formula:
  • Spins: 20% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Spins: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016);
  • Sales: 40% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Sales: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016).

                    These results will be compiled by Nielsen Entertainment.

• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Female Artist of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a group/duo (defined as an act comprised of two (2) or more people, all of whom perform together as a collective group) in the Canadian country music industry, displaying the greatest achievements within the current eligibility period. The act may include an individual who has, or currently does, perform as a solo artist under a name different than that of the group/duo. This award is based on the performance of the group/duo as a unit, either on record or in person. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to success at radio, pre-recorded music, live concert ticket sales and vocal performances.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• At least 50% of the group/duo must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• At least 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA in good standing prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET);
• Any group/duo that capitalizes in whole, or in part, by incorporating the name of a solo artist in the name of the group/duo is not permitted to stand for nomination in this category.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Group or Duo of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – The top ten (10) contenders for the Group or Duo of the Year Award will be determined by the following formula:
  • Spins: 20% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Spins: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016);
  • Sales: 40% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Sales: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016).

                   These results will be compiled by Nielsen Entertainment.

• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Group or Duo of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to each core member of the group/duo, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to an act (solo, duo or group) in the Canadian country music industry who participates in meaningful digital interaction with fans within the current eligibility period. Voters and jury members should give consideration to all aspects of an act’s interaction with fans – including, but not limited to, quantity and quality – via social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, etc.) and website (content, graphic design, layout, etc.). Consideration will be given to campaigns/initiatives/focuses that showcase an act’s innovative, original and engaging thinking.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. In the case of a group/duo, at least 50% of the group/duo must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Only eligible CCMA Members are entitled to submit in this category;
• Contenders in the Second Step of the selection process are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, in order to move on as one of the final five (5) nominees in the Third (and final) Ballot. Within a group/duo, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Interactive Artist or Group of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – Acts are invited to submit a package, detailing number of social media followers, frequency of interaction and details of any social campaigns executed within the current eligibility period by the act;
  • If there are less than three (3) submissions, the award will not be given out in the current year;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will judge the submissions to determine the final five (5) nominees, which will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Interactive Artist or Group of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

This award is presented to an individual male artist in the Canadian country music industry displaying the greatest achievements within the current eligibility period. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to success at radio, pre-recorded music, live concert ticket sales and vocal performances.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The male artist must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Male Artist of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – The top ten (10) contenders for the Male Artist of the Year Award will be determined by the following formula:
  • Spins: 20% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Spins: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016);
  • Sales: 40% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Sales: 20% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016).

                    These results will be compiled by Nielsen Entertainment.

• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Male Artist of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;

          One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to an act (solo, duo or group) who had significant success during the current eligibility period, and who has not been previously nominated in a number of CCMA Artist Award categories (detailed below).

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• Within a group/duo, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA;
• This category is open ONLY to those acts who have never before won the Rising Star Award, and who have never before been nominated for Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Female Artist of the Year, Group or Duo of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Roots Artist or Group of the Year, Single of the Year and/or Video of the Year;
• Nominees in this category are eligible in other categories in the current year;
• An individual performing artist, who has been previously nominated within a group/duo and now performs as a solo artist, or has changed his/her name does NOT qualify;
• A group/duo who has a group member previously nominated as an individual performing artist does NOT qualify;
• No act shall be nominated for the Rising Star Award more than twice.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Rising Star Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – The top ten (10) contenders for the Rising Star Award who meet the above criterial will be determined by the following formula:
  • Spins: 10% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Spins: 30% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016);
  • Sales: 50% new content, released within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
  • Sales: 10% content, released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016).

          These results will be compiled by Nielsen Entertainment;

• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Rising Star Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.
  
  

This award is presented to an act (solo, duo or group) in the Canadian country music industry whose music is based on traditional country styles, but through innovations and originality is different from what is considered “mainstream country”. Roots music embraces a multitude of musical styles, including but not limited to Alternative Country, Bluegrass, Celtic, Country-Blues, Folk, Gospel, Hillbilly, Honky Tonk, Rockabilly and Western Swing. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to success at radio, pre-recorded music, live concert ticket sales and vocal performances.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot. Within a group/duo, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Roots Artist or Group of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Roots Artist or Group of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.
  
  

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) for a Canadian country music track, which was released as a single to Canadian county radio within the current eligibility period as defined below AND amongst the top spinning singles within the current eligibility period. Voters should give consideration to the impact of the single on consumers and the Canadian country music industry.

ELIGIBILITY

• For the purpose of the Single of the Year Award, the current eligibility period is extended to January 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• A single is considered released on the day the track was released to Canadian country radio as a single. The primary source used to determine this information is DMDS.
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot. Within a group/duo, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA;
• Only eligible singles, which were among the top 30 spinning singles at radio within the current eligibility period will qualify. The list of qualifying singles will be provided to the CCMA directly from Nielsen Entertainment;
• Final nominees from the previous year are not eligible in the current year for the same product.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Single of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – The top 30 spinning singles, as provided by Nielsen Entertainment¸ will appear on the First Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than 30 singles will appear on the First Ballot. Each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Single of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.
  
  

This award is presented to the songwriter(s) of an individual country music song released to radio or available for purchase within the current eligibility period. This award is based on an individual song and not on the songwriter(s)’ body of work. Voters should give consideration to all aspects of the given song, if applicable, including but not limited to lyrics, music, success at radio, record sales, success in digital media and impact of the song on consumers and the Canadian country music industry, with emphasis on the creative integrity of the song.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The songwriter(s) must be Canadian citizen(s) or landed immigrant(s). On collaborations, at least one (1) of the songwriters must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot. Within a collaboration, at least one (1) of the contributing members must be a member of the CCMA in good standing prior to the end of the Second Ballot;
• A song from a Greatest Hits album is eligible if not previously nominated and meets all other criteria;
• Final nominees from the previous year are not eligible in the current year for the same product.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Songwriter(s) of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Songwriter(s) of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;

          One (1) award is presented to (each of) the songwriter(s), courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) of a country music album, based upon record sales in Canada, including physical, digital and streamed, within the current eligibility period. An album is defined as a collection of several pieces of music made available as a single item. The album can be a special project or commemorative package.

ELIGIBILITY

• For the purpose of the Top Selling Album of the Year, the current eligibility period, in which the product must have been released, is extended to January 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• This award is based on sales within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
• The album must contain no less than six (6) tracks;
• Eligibility for this award extends to all country recording artists (including non-Canadians);
• Eligibility for this award extends to non-CCMA Members;
• Compilation albums do not qualify.

SELECTION PROCESS

• Individual digital track sales will be converted to album sales using the formula ten (10) digital tracks sold = one (1) album sold. Streamed track sales will be converted to album sales using the formula 1,500 streams = one (1) album sold. The results will be provided by Nielsen Entertainment;
  • Sales figures supplied may be audited by the accounting firm of the CCMA;
  • The album with the greatest unit sales will be declared the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.
    

CCMA AWARD

• The Top Selling Album of the Year Award is announced at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;

          One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) of a Canadian country music album, based upon record sales in Canada, including physical, digital and streamed, within the current eligibility period. An album is defined as a collection of several pieces of music made available as a single item. The album can be a special project or commemorative package.

ELIGIBILITY

• For the purpose of the Top Selling Canadian Album of the Year, the current eligibility period, in which the product must have been released, is extended to January 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• This award is based on sales within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• The album must contain no less than six (6) tracks;
• Eligibility for this award extends to all Canadian country recording artists;
• Eligibility for this award extends to non-CCMA Members;
• Compilation albums do not qualify.

SELECTION PROCESS

• Individual digital track sales will be converted to album sales using the formula ten (10) digital tracks sold = one (1) album sold. Streamed track sales will be converted to album sales using the formula 1,500 streams = one (1) album sold. The results will be provided by Nielsen Entertainment;
  • Sales figures supplied may be audited by the accounting firm of the CCMA;
  • The album with the greatest unit sales will be declared the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.

CCMA AWARD

• The Top Selling Canadian Album of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.
  
  

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) of a Canadian country music single, based upon sales in Canada, both digital and streamed, within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• For the purpose of the Top Selling Canadian Single of the Year, the current eligibility period, in which the product must have been released, is extended to January 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• This award is based on sales within the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017);
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Eligibility for this award extends to all Canadian country recording artists;
• Eligibility for this award extends to non-CCMA Members.

SELECTION PROCESS

• Individual track sales will be captured;
• Streamed track sales will be converted to digital track sales using the formula 150 streams = one (1) digital track sold. The results will be provided by Nielsen Entertainment;
  • Sales figures supplied may be audited by the accounting firm of the CCMA;
  • The single with the greatest unit sales will be declared the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.

CCMA AWARD

• The Top Selling Canadian Single of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group/duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

This award is presented to the act (solo, duo or group) for a Canadian country music video, released for broadcast within the current eligibility period. This award is for an original audio visual program. Voters and jury members should give consideration to all aspects of the given video, including but not limited to creativity, production, visual appeal and impact on consumers and the Canadian country music industry.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• A music video is considered released on the day it is serviced to CMT Canada;
• The act must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. Within a group/duo, at least 50% of the members must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Contenders in the Second Step of the selection process are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, in order to move on as one of the final five (5) nominees in the Third (and final) Ballot; Within a group/duo, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot;
• The award is for an original audio visual program, not more than ten (10) minutes in length, featuring the performance of not more than one (1) song;
• Final nominees from the previous year are not eligible in the current year for the same product.
  
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Video of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will proceed to STEP TWO, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will proceed to STEP TWO;
• STEP TWO - A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will judge the ten (10) contenders to determine the final five (5) nominees, which will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Video of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Awards Show during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the act, courtesy of the CCMA. In the case of a group or duo, one (1) award will be presented to each core member of the group/duo.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Bass Player of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Bass Player of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Drummer of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Drummer of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Fiddle Player of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Fiddle Player of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Guitar Player of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Guitar Player of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Keyboard Player of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Keyboard Player of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Specialty Instrument Player of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Specialty Instrument Player of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Only eligible CCMA Members, listed as a Musician, Artist, Producer or Songwriter as their primary membership category, are eligible to vote on the seven (7) Musician Award categories;
• The musician for each of the above Musician Awards must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• A musician is only eligible to win five (5) times, within the same Musician Award category, before being added to the category’s honour roll, making them no longer eligible in that category.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Steel Guitar Player of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Steel Guitar Player of the Year Award is presented during the annual CCMA Industry Lunch and Awards and/or the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the musician in each of the seven (7) Musician Award categories, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to Canadian country music radio Music Directors who exemplify the development and airplay of Canadian country talent through his/her radio station within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period for the Music Director of the Year (Large Market) Award is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The recipients must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• The individuals must hold the title of Music Director for a Canadian radio station; if there is no full-time Music Director, a Program Director will be eligible;
• The individual must have been employed, and in the applicable position within the corresponding company for a minimum of 50% of the current eligibility period.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Music Director of the Year (Large Market) Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Music Director of the Year (Large Market) Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the Music Director (Large Market), courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to Canadian country music radio Music Directors who exemplify the development and airplay of Canadian country talent through his/her radio station within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period for the Music Director of the Year Award (Medium or Small Market) is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The recipients must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• The individuals must hold the title of Music Director for a Canadian radio station; if there is no full-time Music Director, a Program Director will be eligible;
• The individual must have been employed, and in the applicable position within the corresponding company for a minimum of 50% of the current eligibility period.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Music Director of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Music Director of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the Music Director (Medium or Small Market), courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to Canadian country music on-air radio personalities who exemplify the development of Canadian country talent through his/her/their presentation on-air for a Canadian country radio station within the current eligibility period. Jury members should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to the personality(ies)’s on-air presentation, market share/ratings information, community service, industry involvement and charitable contributions.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period for the On-Air Personality(ies) of the Year (Large Market) Award is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Any Canadian terrestrial country radio station (as defined by the CRTC) is entitled to submit for consideration;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the submitted radio station must be a member of the CCMA in good standing upon the submissions opening;
• The individual must have been employed, and in the applicable position within the corresponding company for a minimum of 50% of the current eligibility period.

SELECTION PROCESS

The On-Air Personality(ies) of the Year (Large Market) Award follows a two (2) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – Radio stations are invited to submit a package for (one of) their on-air personality(ies), demonstrating the personality(ies)’s on-air presentation, market share/rating information, community service, industry involvement, charitable contributions, etc.;
  • If there are less than three (3) submissions in either of the above mentioned categories, the award will not be presented in the current year;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will independently judge each submission, giving consideration to ratings, community service, industry involvement, entertainment and professionalism of the demo;
  • The tallied results will determine the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.

CCMA AWARD

• The On-Air Personality(ies) of the Year (Large Market) Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to each core member of the personality(ies) (Large Market), courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to Canadian country music on-air radio personalities who exemplify the development of Canadian country talent through his/her/their presentation on-air for a Canadian country radio station within the current eligibility period. Jury members should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to the personality(ies)’s on-air presentation, market share/ratings information, community service, industry involvement and charitable contributions.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period the On-Air Personality(ies) of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Any Canadian terrestrial country radio station (as defined by the CRTC) is entitled to submit for consideration;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the submitted radio station must be a member of the CCMA in good standing upon the submissions opening;
• The individual must have been employed, and in the applicable position within the corresponding company for a minimum of 50% of the current eligibility period.

SELECTION PROCESS

The  On-Air Personality(ies) of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award follows a two (2) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – Radio stations are invited to submit a package for (one of) their on-air personality(ies), demonstrating the personality(ies)’s on-air presentation, market share/rating information, community service, industry involvement, charitable contributions, etc.;
  • If there are less than three (3) submissions in either of the above mentioned categories, the award will not be presented in the current year;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will independently judge each submission, giving consideration to ratings, community service, industry involvement, entertainment and professionalism of the demo;
  • The tallied results will determine the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.

CCMA AWARD

• The On-Air Personality(ies) of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to each core member of the personality(ies)(Medium or Small Market), courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to Canadian country music radio stations, who exemplify the development of Canadian country talent through a presentation of the music on their station, within the current eligibility period. Eligible terrestrial country radio stations must be licensed by the CRTC. Jury members should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to community involvement, promotions, leadership and recognition.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period for the Radio Station of the Year (Large Market) Award is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Any Canadian terrestrial country radio station (as defined by the CRTC) is entitled to submit for consideration;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the submitted radio station must be a member of the CCMA in good standing upon the submissions opening.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Radio Station of the Year (Large Market) Award follows a two (2) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – Radio stations are invited to submit a package, demonstrating the station’s on-air presentation, along with description of the station’s best attributes, including market share/ratings information, community service, industry involvement, charitable contributions, etc.;
  • If there are less than three (3) submissions, the award will not be given out in the current year;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will independently judge each submission, giving consideration to ratings, community service, industry involvement, entertainment and professionalism of the demo;
  • The tallied results of the jury will declare the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.

CCMA AWARD

• The Radio Station of the Year (Large Market) Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the radio station in each market, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to Canadian country music radio stations, who exemplify the development of Canadian country talent through a presentation of the music on their station, within the current eligibility period. Eligible terrestrial country radio stations must be licensed by the CRTC. Jury members should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to community involvement, promotions, leadership and recognition.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period for the Radio Station of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• Any Canadian terrestrial country radio station (as defined by the CRTC) is entitled to submit for consideration;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the submitted radio station must be a member of the CCMA in good standing upon the submissions opening.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Radio Station of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award follows a two (2) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – Radio stations are invited to submit a package, demonstrating the station’s on-air presentation, along with description of the station’s best attributes, including market share/ratings information, community service, industry involvement, charitable contributions, etc.;
  • If there are less than three (3) submissions, the award will not be given out in the current year;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will independently judge each submission, giving consideration to ratings, community service, industry involvement, entertainment and professionalism of the demo;
  • The tallied results of the jury will declare the winner;
  • There are no nominees in this category;
  • There is no voting in this category.

CCMA AWARD

• The Radio Station of the Year (Medium or Small Market) Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;

 One (1) award is presented to the radio station in each market, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a booking agency that procures employment for a Canadian country act(s) during the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The booking agency must have an operating office located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the booking agency must be a member of the CCMA in good standing, prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Booking Agency of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Booking Agency of the Year Award is presented at the annual, CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the company, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a Canadian establishment, which regularly employs Canadian country artists, within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The club must have an operating establishment located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the country club is required to be a member of the CCMA in good standing prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET);
• The club must have bought or promoted at least ten (10) country events, with Canadian content, within the eligibility period.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Country Club of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Country Club of the Year Award is presented at the annual, CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the establishment, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a Canadian festival, fair or exhibition, which utilizes Canadian country artists as an element of the event and presents country music in a positive manner while attracting a large and diverse audience, and has displayed professional organization, management and production during the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The festival, fair or exhibition must have an operating event located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the festival, fair or exhibition is required to be a member of the CCMA in good standing, prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).

SELECTION PROCESS

The Country Festival, Fair or Exhibition of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection

process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Country Festival, Fair, or Exhibition of the Year Award is presented at the annual, CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the establishment, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to the production company of an original Canadian-produced country music program or special whose original airing on television or radio (including network or cable) was within the current eligibility period. A special is considered to be a one-time production and a program is a collection of individual episodes. Therefore, individual episodes of a program are not eligible.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The production company must have an operating office located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the production company is required to be a member of the CCMA in good standing, prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET);
• The program or special must be a minimum of 30 minutes in duration.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Country Music Program or Special of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Country Music Program or Special of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the production company, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a management company that oversees the career of a Canadian country act(s) during the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The management company must have an operating office located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the management company is required to be a member of the CCMA, in good standing, prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Management Company of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Management Company of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the management company, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a Canadian publishing firm which published original country works by Canadian writers, within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The music publishing company must have an operating office located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the music publishing company is required to be a member of the CCMA in good standing, prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Music Publishing Company of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Music Publishing Company of the Year Award is presented at the annual, CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the music publishing company, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a record company which has released Canadian country product for sale within the current eligibility period. A record company is defined as a company or label that makes and sells musical recordings independently, in partnership with, and/or operates with full services as a division of a multinational company.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The record company must have an operating office located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the record company is required to be a member of the CCMA in good standing prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Record Company of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Record Company of the Year Award is presented at the annual, CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards, during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the record company, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to one (1) individual employee of a record company, displaying excellence within the current eligibility period. A record company is defined as a company or label that makes and sells musical recordings independently, in partnership with, and/or operated with full services as a division of a multinational company.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The recipient must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• This award is presented to one (1) individual. Any votes containing more than one (1) name on the First Ballot will be considered INVALID;
• The individual must have been employed, and in the applicable position within the corresponding company for a minimum of 50% of the current eligibility period.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Record Company Person of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Record Company Person of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the record company person, courtesy of the CCMA.               

This award is presented to the design team who has created a physical album (CD, EP and/or vinyl) or single (digital), as listed within the album’s liner notes or as listed on the completed submission form (single), featuring original artwork, released within the current eligibility period. Voters and jury members should give consideration to all aspects of the given recording package, including but not limited to the strength and cohesiveness of the design concept of the whole package (including the disc), typography, materials used, marketing potential and connectedness to the music and/or recording artist.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• At least 50% of the design team must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants;
• Only eligible CCMA Members are entitled to submit in this category;
• Contenders in the Second Step of the selection process are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, in order to move on as one of the final five (5) nominees in the Third (and final) Ballot; Within a collaboration, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA;
• Packaging released prior to the current eligibility period (March 1, 2016) does not qualify; however, design elements of previously released CD, EP, vinyl and/or single (digital) packaging qualifies when the design elements are incorporated into a new design (e.g. greatest hits packaging);
• For an album (CD, EP and/or vinyl), only those listed as the design team, within the album packaging, will be considered members of the design team;
• For a single (digital), only those listed as the design team, on the completed submission form, and verified by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee, will be considered members of the design team. Once submitted, the names CANNOT BE CHANGED.
• Final nominees from the previous year are not eligible in the current year for the same product.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Recording Package of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE – Members of a design team are invited to submit a package, including their artwork, detailing the creative thought process behind the artwork, the connectedness to the music/art, and marketability of the art;
  • If there are less than three (3) submissions, the award will not be given out in the current year;
• STEP TWO – A professional panel of industry jurors, whose members are approved by the CCMA, will judge the submissions to determine the final five (5) nominees, which will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot;
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Recording Package of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• A maximum of two (2) awards will be presented to the design team, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a Canadian recording establishment that facilitates the production of Canadian country music product released within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The recording studio must have an operating office located in Canada;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the recording studio is required to be a member of the CCMA, in good standing prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).

SELECTION PROCESS

The Recording Studio of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Recording Studio of the Year Award is presented at the annual, CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the recording studio, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a producer(s), primarily involved in the recording and/or mixing process, for selected project(s) released within the current eligibility period. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to a commercially released single, album or EP crediting the producer, and chart status.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The producer(s) must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. On collaborations, at least one (1) of the producers must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot. Within a collaboration, 50% of the contributing members must be members of the CCMA;
• In the event of co-production, the co-producer team would stand collectively for the co-production.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Record Producer(s) of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Record Producer(s) of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to (each of) the producer(s), courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a music retailer; either a digital or a physical store, displaying outstanding support of Canadian country music within the current eligibility period. A music retailer is defined as a company which actively sells Canadian country music, either through a store location, online purchase of digital downloads, online purchase of a manufactured CD or subscription-based streaming services. Voters should give consideration to all aspects, including but not limited to the retailer’s sales service, promotions and support of Canadian country talent.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• A minimum of one (1) person from the retailer is required to be a member of the CCMA in good standing prior to the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET).
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Retailer of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as Nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.
  

CCMA AWARD

• The Retailer of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the retailer, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to one (1) individual talent buyer or promoter, who presents and promotes Canadian country acts within the current eligibility period.                      

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The talent buyer or promoter must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• This award is presented to one (1) individual. Any votes containing more than one (1) name on the First Ballot will be considered INVALID;
• The talent buyer or promoter must have bought at least ten (10) country events, with Canadian content, within the eligibility period;
• The individual must have been employed, and in the applicable position within the corresponding company for a minimum of 50% of the current eligibility period;
• Ron Sakamoto is no longer eligible for this award.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Ron Sakamoto Talent Buyer or Promoter of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as Nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The Nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Ron Sakamoto Talent Buyer or Promoter of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Gala Dinner & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to the talent buyer/promoter, courtesy of the CCMA.

This award is presented to a video director, displaying excellence in the area of Canadian country music video direction for selected project(s) released within the current eligibility period.

ELIGIBILITY

• The current eligibility period is March 1, 2016 through to April 30, 2017;
• The video director must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant. With a co-production, at least one (1) of the directors must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant;
• Second Ballot contenders are required to be members of the CCMA, in good standing, by the end of the Second Ballot (June 28, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. ET) in order to move on to the Third (and final) Ballot.
• In the event of a co-production, the co-director team would stand collectively for the co-production.
  

SELECTION PROCESS

The Video Director of the Year Award follows a three (3) step selection process:

• STEP ONE (First Ballot) – Each eligible CCMA Member may submit one (1) contender. The ten (10) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Second Ballot, providing they meet the eligibility requirements, as determined by the CCMA’s Award Verification Committee. In the case of a tie, more than ten (10) contenders will appear on the Second Ballot;
• STEP TWO (Second Ballot) – From the list of ten (10) contenders provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) contender they deem most deserving. The five (5) contenders receiving the most votes will appear on the Third (and final) Ballot as nominees. In the case of a tie, more than five (5) nominees will appear on the Third Ballot.
• STEP THREE (Third Ballot) – From the list of five (5) nominees provided, each eligible CCMA Member may vote for the one (1) nominee they deem most deserving. The nominee receiving the most votes will be announced as the winner during Country Music Week. In the case of a tie, more than one (1) winner will be announced.

CCMA AWARD

• The Video Director of the Year Award is presented at the annual CCMA Industry Lunch & Awards during Country Music Week;
• One (1) award is presented to (each of) the video director(s), courtesy of the CCMA.