I’ll be upfront in admitting I didn’t watch the 2025 JUNO Awards when it aired live this year nor is this entry to flip the script to share that I was present at the show chilling within Rogers Arena in Vancouver, B.C. elbows up with young Bublé.

Sadly nothing so spectacular. Instead 2 days after the show I found time to watch from home with the usual company and going in blind.

I honestly no idea of the nominees, categories or winners apart from what I remembered from previous years. It felt good to not know, even if it would be temporary. My partner had shared she had no idea of nominee or winners either. Great.

Here’s where you’d expect me to talk about Michael as a host, the amazing artists, the messages both social and political not to mention Anne Murray winning the Lifetime Achievement award oh my word a Canadian diamond, well deserved. Yes all very amazing, thought provoking, brave and deserved.

To be honest though what raised my eyebrow was my company and heading her comments on the Canadian talent. Who she recognised versus who I did. She knew of Snotty Nosed Red Kids. Alright. I was aware of Nemhasis while she wasn’t but she does now and her words as well as her act was memorable and she understood the assignment clearly. Watching Boi-1da receieve his award and giving thanks seemed appropriate. The humble nature of these winners was commendable.

Then came Sum 41, a band I’d listened to quite regularly during my youth in Merry Old England. I was surprised she did not know of the band as a Canadian usually quite knowledgable of “popular” talent but it’s not on the level of not knowing what Tim Hortons is so I get it. Apples and Oranges, perhaps. Another One.

The show was enlightening and who knew watching someone tactfully put back in a slipped out earpiece during a dance routine on camera, LIVE would be so fascinating as their music but here we are and it made me chuckle.

There was much emphasis on Canadian excellence this yeat. No idea why but that’s groovy. *cough*

I guess I’ll keep an eye out for the BAFTAs next.

How much longer is this all for again?

Regards,

Alexander/Zenchi