The Polaris Music Prize has announced its highly anticipated shortlist for 2021, featuring a diverse range of talented Canadian artists.
Among the 10 nominees are Cindy Lee, Beaches, Charlotte Cardin, and Allison Russell, all of whom have made a significant impact on the Canadian music scene with their unique sounds and powerful messages.
Cindy Lee, the experimental pop project of musician Patrick Flegel, has been recognized for their album “What’s Tonight to Eternity.” The album, which explores themes of love, loss, and identity, has received critical acclaim for its haunting melodies and raw emotion.
Beaches, an all-female rock band from Toronto, has also made the shortlist with their album “Second of Spring.” The band’s blend of psychedelic and punk rock has earned them a dedicated fan base and praise from music critics.
Singer-songwriter Charlotte Cardin has been recognized for her debut album “Phoenix,” which showcases her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics. The album has been praised for its vulnerability and authenticity, solidifying Cardin as a rising star in the Canadian music industry.
Allison Russell, a multi-instrumentalist and member of the band Birds of Chicago, has been nominated for her solo album “Outside Child.” The album, which delves into Russell’s personal experiences with trauma and healing, has been hailed as a powerful and moving work of art.
Other nominees on the shortlist include Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, Dominique Fils-Aimé, Mustafa, The Weather Station, and Yu Su.
The Polaris Music Prize, which has been celebrating and promoting Canadian music since 2006, is known for its commitment to recognizing and supporting diverse and innovative artists. The winner of the prize will receive $50,000, while the nine other shortlisted artists will each receive $3,000.
The winner of the 2021 Polaris Music Prize will be announced on September 27, 2021, during a virtual event. The shortlist was chosen by a jury of music journalists, broadcasters, and bloggers from across Canada.
Congratulations to all the nominees for their outstanding contributions to the Canadian music landscape. We look forward to seeing who will take home the prestigious Polaris Music Prize this year.
