In The News
May 2026
In The News
May 2026
This section of the newsletter contains news stories, press releases, and links to Internet articles submitted by our members, which they believe 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 something included in the newsletter, please send us a short synopsis, a photo or graphic, and the hotlink to include 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.
ISC ANNOUNCES 2025 WINNERS ON May 11, 2026
The International Songwriting Competition (ISC) is an annual song contest whose mission is to provide aspiring and established songwriters with the opportunity to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena.
Tim Hicks Announces New Album Going Somewhere and National Tour
Tim Hicks is set to release his sixth studio album, Going Somewhere, on May 22, arriving alongside the launch of his national Going Somewhere Tour and a limited-edition cherry red vinyl release. Led by the new radio single “The Pilot,” the project builds on Hicks’ signature country rock sound with arena-ready hooks, big guitars, and a mix of high-energy summer tracks and reflective moments. Developed with collaborators including Jeff Coplan, Deric Ruttan, Derek Hoffman, and Dave Thomson, the album showcases both the grit and heart that have defined Hicks’ career while bringing fans his most personal and dynamic record yet.
Elyse Saunders is building momentum with her latest single “Cowboy Up,” released April 3.
The empowering track was co-written by Saunders, Raquel Cole, and Bonnie Baker (Reba McEntire, Rascal Flatts), earning strong editorial support, while the official visualizer has surpassed 208,000 views, along with strong media praise and reviews. This May, Saunders takes the song across Ontario as part of the True North series tour, joining ACM and CMA recording artist James Otto, alongside Graham Trude and Tara Shannon. For more information, visit www.elysesaunders.com.
Dustin Bird Blends Country-Pop & Retro Soul on New Single “One More Last Call”
Dustin Bird returns with “One More Last Call,” a smooth and soulful country-pop release that captures the familiar late-night pull of reaching for something that may already be slipping away. Written in Nashville with Brian Maher and Bay Simpson, the track pairs warm keys, bending guitars, and an effortless vocal delivery with a laid-back groove that feels both modern and vintage-inspired. The release marks a confident new creative direction for Bird, showcasing a polished, personality-driven sound that is distinctly his own.