Residency
Must be a legal resident of Canada living or based in Ontario.
ONTARIO'S EMERGING COUNTRY ARTISTS
THE NEXT GREATCANADIAN COUNTRY STAR
Ontario Edition
Four qualifying shows. Four finalists. One artist takes the crown.
APPLICATIONS • SEP 7, 2026 – OCT 31, 2026PETERBOROUGH, ONTARIO
THE SEARCH
STARTS HERE
Ontario is home to incredible undiscovered country music talent. We’re bringing the best emerging artists to one stage to find the next breakout star.
16ARTISTS
4QUALIFYING SHOWS
4FINALISTS
1CROWN
THE JOURNEY TO STARDOM
From application to the grand final, the path to becoming the next country star is intense and rewarding.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Ensure you meet all essential requirements before beginning your application. All submissions are reviewed by our industry intake committee.
Age Requirements
18 years of age or older at the time of application submission.
Artist Format
Solo artists, acoustic duos, and full country bands are all eligible.
Agreements
Must not be bound by exclusive recording or major management contracts conflicting with competition terms.
Original Music
Submit at least two original country songs written or co-written and prepared for live performance. AI-generated music is forbidden.
Travel & Accommodation
DETAILS TO BE CONFIRMEDContestants must be available for all five competition dates and are responsible for their own travel and accommodation to Peterborough.
THE GRAND PRIZE
WIN MORE THAN THE TITLE. BUILD YOUR CAREER.
The Next Great Canadian Country Star Grand Prize Package features a career-defining live recording session at a premier Ontario studio with an award-winning music producer, plus cash, photography and video, live performances, mentorship and promotion.
THE NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE
From rising talent to radio-ready professional. Record your single with Shawn Moore Productions and build your career with the support of our sponsors and partners.
RECORDING
A professionally recorded, mixed and mastered country single by Shawn Moore Productions, ready for streaming and radio.
CASH PRIZE
A cash prize to support the next step in your music career.
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO
A combined photography and video package with Zack Bird to showcase you and your music.
LIVE PERFORMANCES
A live performance spot at Hollyrood Jamboree, plus more opportunities to bring your music to new audiences.
MENTORSHIP
A mentorship package to help you navigate the music industry and plan the next steps in your career.
PROMOTION
A targeted marketing and PR campaign by all our sponsors and partners to announce the winner.
THINK YOU'VE GOTWHAT IT TAKES?
We are looking for original voices, authentic songwriting, and undeniable stage presence.Submit your best work to be considered for the competition.
JUDGED BY PEOPLE WHO KNOW THE BUSINESS
Our panel of industry veterans, hit songwriters, and label executives will guide the artists and select the ultimate winner.
Matty Buller
judgeMatty Buller is a Canadian country artist, DJ, songwriter, producer and KX 105 radio personality. With experience both on stage and behind the microphone, Matty brings a passion for great songs, authentic storytelling, and discovering new country music talent.
Patty Parmentier from PNP Media
judgePNP Media Inc. specializes in promoting and capturing live events, concerts, festivals, and fundraisers. Since 2009, Patty and Peter have helped bring events to life through engaging photos, videos, and social media coverage. Creating buzz before, capturing the moments during, and keeping the excitement going after.
Paula Walker
JudgePaula Walker brings over 40 years of experience as a vocal coach, music educator, and industry veteran. As the mother and vocal coach to country music sensation Jade Eagleson, she has a proven ear for top-tier talent. Paula is a published author of a children’s music series with Warner Music Canada, a singer-songwriter, and the producer behind the RockSpel group SoulCorde Music.
THE ROAD TO THE CROWN
Five live shows in Peterborough. All dates subject to standard event scheduling.
