St. John’s was the place to celebrate tonight as a memorable ceremony showcased and recognized artists from throughout Atlantic Canada. This year’s East Coast Music Awards lit up the city with electric performances and a display of outstanding talent.

Our Government recognizes that the Canadian music industry contributes to the vitality of our cultural life and is an important sector of our economy. Our music industry generates nearly $3 billion every year in economic activity from sound recordings, concerts, commercial radio and performing rights.

Our Government is proud to provide funding to the Canada Music Fund, which gives Canadians and the rest of the world better access to Canadian music. In an average year, the Fund supports over 400 album production projects and 1,100 marketing, touring and showcasing initiatives.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate the artists whose achievements and dedication were honoured at the 2015 East Coast Music Awards. I also commend the East Coast Music Association and its partners on successfully highlighting Atlantic Canada’s artists.