Brandon’s music scene is getting national attention this week as two hometown standouts — FONTINE and Boy Golden (Liam Duncan) — land major industry recognition alongside some of Manitoba’s biggest names.
FONTINE continues her breakout year with a Western Canadian Music Award nomination, joining a powerhouse slate that includes Leith Ross and William Prince. Her rising profile adds to a growing wave of Indigenous and prairie‑rooted artists making noise across the country.
Boy Golden, the Brandon‑born songwriter whose blend of folk, country and cosmic charm has built a devoted following, is also celebrating a major milestone: a spot on the Polaris Music Prize long list, sharing the stage with Begonia, JayWood and punk legends Propagandhi. It’s another national nod for an artist who’s become one of Manitoba’s most recognizable musical exports.
The momentum doesn’t stop there. Winnipeg singer/songwriter William Prince helped open the World Cup, Bobby Dove is soaring with new acclaim, Jake Fretz picked up a WCMA nomination, and Jazz Winnipeg’s TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival kicks off this week with Soul Supreme, Erin Propp & Larry Roy and more.
Manitoba Music has the full roundup in its latest Signal Boost feature available here.
