Winnipeg, March 30, 2014

It was a great pleasure to take part in the JUNO Awards ceremony this evening in my hometown of Winnipeg.

The evening was a wonderful conclusion to an entire week of activities that gave music lovers an opportunity to celebrate our artists to the beat of our own music. Again this year, Canadian singers, songwriters, composers, musicians, entrepreneurs and other music professionals have astounded us with their talent and their achievements.

Our Government recognizes the importance of the Canadian music industry. Canada is the world’s third-largest exporter of musical talent. The Canadian music industry generates close to $3 billion a year in economic activity from concerts, commercial radio, performing rights and sales of recordings.

I would like to congratulate the group Bachman–Turner Overdrive (BTO) on its induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The Winnipeg band has left a distinct impression on the imagination of an entire generation with songs like “Takin' Care of Business” and “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet.”

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I commend all of this year’s nominees and award winners. I also want to thank the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, which, through the JUNO Awards, recognizes the exceptional achievements of Canada’s music makers.

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