Jeremy Dutcher is now the only artist to win the Polaris Music Prize twice. He won in 2018 for his debut Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa and in 2024 for his follow-up Motewolonuwok. (Wade Muir)
Jeremy Dutcher has been awarded the 2024 Polaris Music Prize for his album Motewolonuwok. The album was chosen as the best Canadian album of the year by an 11-member jury, based solely on artistic merit. The award was presented at Massey Hall in Toronto on September 17.
Upon receiving the prize, Dutcher expressed his astonishment and gratitude, bringing his entire team on stage. "Six years ago, this award changed my life," he said. "I owe endless thanks to the music community. Please give a round of applause for all the nominees." He added, "Every album on that list was unique, which highlights the diversity of music here. I cherish everyone who contributed to this album. I never expected this."
Dutcher reflected on the significance of his win, stating, "Bringing art and music to this land, in our languages and aesthetics — we are shining for you, so go shine for others."
Motewolonuwok is Dutcher's second album and his second Polaris Music Prize win. He is the first artist in the award’s 19-year history to win twice. Like his debut album, Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa, Motewolonuwok is deeply rooted in preserving the Wolastoqey language. This time, Dutcher also included English lyrics to engage settlers in conversations about reclamation and reconciliation.
In an October interview with CBC Music, Dutcher discussed his previous win and the importance of preserving Indigenous languages. "Few non-French or English albums capture public interest," he said. "It’s thrilling to be among the small number bringing our language and the discussion on revitalization into the spotlight."
During the gala, Dutcher performed a medley that included "Sakom," "Take My Hand," and "Together We Emerge," accompanied by a chorus as he sang at the piano. The powerful performance captivated the audience, bringing the event to a profound moment.
Listeners can catch highlights from the gala on CBC Music Live through CBC Radio One and CBC Listen on the following dates:
- September 20 at 2 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. NT)
- September 23 at 6 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. NT)
- September 24 at 11 p.m. ET (11:30 p.m. NT)
The full gala will be available to stream on CBC Gem starting October 2 as part of the CBC Music Presents: Live at Massey Hall series.
