Alberta’s MacKenzie Porter finally secured a long-awaited victory at the Canadian Country Music Association Awards, winning Female Artist of the Year and ending Tenille Townes’ five-year streak in the category. The Medicine Hat native’s win came after nearly a decade of nominations, marking a moment of personal and professional triumph.
Porter, who had been nominated for the award seven times over the past ten years, expressed her relief and excitement on Saturday. “I’ve been nominated for the CCMAs 28 times, and this is one of my first wins,” she said during her acceptance speech, making her first televised appearance since becoming a mother. She encouraged other artists to keep striving for success, no matter how long it takes.
In addition to Female Artist of the Year, Porter took home the award for Video of the Year for “Chasing Tornadoes.” The song, a catchy tribute to the whirlwind of romance, was set against the striking backdrop of the Nevada desert and Las Vegas lights. Her wins were a testament to her perseverance and hard work in a challenging industry.
Porter acknowledged the unique struggles female artists face in the country music world, dedicating her success to fellow women in the industry and to her newborn daughter. “It takes a lot of hard work and hustle to succeed as a female in country music,” she said, reflecting on her long journey to this moment.
Porter was one of the most-nominated artists at this year’s awards, tying with Jade Eagleson for six nominations. Eagleson, from Bailieboro, Ontario, won Album of the Year for Do It Anyway, rounding out a night that celebrated both rising stars and seasoned talent in Canadian country music.
