In The News
October 2025
In The News
October 2025
This section of the newsletter comprises news stories, press releases, and links to Internet articles submitted by our members, who believe they will be of general interest to the membership. We include them as a courtesy to our members but do not verify or edit their content. Their inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by the CMAOntario, nor do their contents reflect the views or opinions of the CMAOntario. If you would like to have something included in the newsletter, please send us a short synopsis, a photo or graphic and the hotlink that can be included in the news listing. Submissions can be sent to verle@cmaontario.ca. Please make sure the Subject Line reads "For inclusion in the CMAOntario Newsletter". The deadline for submissions is the 20th of each month.
MONETTE RELEASES “UN GARS DE LA VALLEE”
Monette, a prominent figure on the Franco-Ontarian music scene, returns to the stage with Un gars de la Vallée (‘Valley Boy’), the title track and first single from his sixth album, scheduled for release in spring 2026.
In this opening track, Monette digs into the Valley East roots that stoked the fire of his youth, tracing the destiny of an entire family – a lineage forged from hard work and quiet courage, forebearers who stood tall even when everything tried to break them.
NEW MUSIC FROM STEVE RIVERS
This track came together during a time of reflection and growth. It’s a song about facing those moments when you feel pulled in the wrong direction, and finding the strength to push back and choose something better. Creating it from start to finish on my own — writing, producing, and shaping the sound — was both challenging and incredibly rewarding.
You can listen to Darkside now on all streaming platforms here!
Source: Member Submission (EDITED)
DAYNA REID RELEASES NEW SINGLE “I BELIEVE IN YOU”
Rising Canadian country artist Dayna Reid is turning up the fun with a cheeky new track, “I Believe in You,” available everywhere today. The single puts a playful spin on first impressions and the roller-coaster of trusting someone new.
“You know when you first meet someone and you want to believe the best about them? You give them the benefit of the doubt… until they show you who they really are,” says Reid. “I Believe in You takes a lighthearted twist on that moment – when what you’re left believing in are their true colours.”
“NOBODY” GETS YOU LIKE OLIVIA MAE GRAHAM
After a whirlwind year and a Breakthrough Artist of the Year nomination at CMAOntario Awards, Olivia is just getting started. She has shared the stage with Terri Clark and opened for the James Barker Band, Fefe Dobson, and Nate Haller. Through her live shows and YouTube series, she connects deeply with fans, inspiring them with passion and purpose.
With ‘Nobody’, OMG steps boldly into her next chapter, blending heartfelt storytelling with an upbeat country charm.
SATELLITE BIRDHOUSE LIVE! AT CLUB SAW
Come celebrate the autumn season with Satellite Birdhouse on Sunday, October 26th at Club SAW in Ottawa! Joined by the great Stephen Stanley with Chris Bennett and our beloved Moonfruits, you’re in for one sweet night of heartfelt folk music. Tickets are on sale now: satellitebirdhouse.com/tickets
Doors 7:00 p.m. · Start 7:30 p.m. · All ages · Wheelchair-accessible
2ND ANNUAL COUNTRY TALKS: MENTAL HEALTH
Canadian country artists are once again coming together to share their lived experiences with mental illness, addiction, and other mental health challenges through a unique storyteller-style benefit concert in support of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).
- When: Sunday, October 26, 2025 @ 3:00pm
- Where: The Rec Room Square One: 100 City Centre Dr #1-705, Mississauga, ON L5B 2C9
- Tickets: $20
More info and tickets at https://countrytalks2.eventbrite.ca
Source: Member Submission (EDITED)
HAYDEN RYANN RELEASES NEW SINGLE “NO ROOM FOR BITCHIN”
Toronto-born artist Hayden Ryann brings a confident new voice to country-pop with her single “No Room for Bitchin’,” (Slammin’ Media and distributed worldwide by Believe) set for release on September 26, 2025. At just 21 years old, Hayden combines a modern lyrical directness with the warmth of country storytelling and the energy of pop, crafting music that resonates with young listeners who value authenticity and empowerment.
UNSIGNEDONLY MUSIC AWARDS 2025
The Unsigned Only Music Awards is an online Music Awards geared toward independent and unsigned artists internationally. The focus is exclusively on unsigned artists in 23 genre categories, providing a level playing field for all artists who have not secured a major label record deal. Prizes include promotional services, promotional tools packages and mentor sessions with top professionals.
Among many music industry pros, judges include: Aimee Mann, LeAnn Rimes and Rodney Atkins.