This marks the Indigenous composer and singer’s second win

The prestigious award is given to the best Canadian album with an emphasis on artistic merit. Jeremy Dutcher‘s moving sophomore album, Motewolonuwok, took home the prize in a historic win. He was first awarded the Polaris Prize in 2018 for his otherwordly full-length debut, Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa.

Each year, an independent jury of over 200 music and media professionals across the country are involved in the selection process. For the 2024 edition, the record must have been released between April 1, 2023 and May 1, 2024. Th vetting process includes both a Longlist and Shortlist before a grand jury of 11 partake on selecting the winner.

The Polaris Music Prize consists of $50,000 courtesy of Slaight Family Foundation, awarded to the Canadian Album of the Year. Motewolonuwok also features Dutcher’s first English-language recordings and transcends genres. Upon winning the award, he stated:

“Six years ago, this award changed my life. I have to give unending gratitude to this music community, please keep your hands going for all of these nominees. Not a single album on that list sounded like each other and that speaks to the breadth of music in this place. This choir, these singers, this band, everyone who helped make this album, I love you. I didn’t think this would happen.”

The 2024 Polaris Prize Short List Includes:

BAMBII — INFINITY CLUB

The Beaches — Blame My Ex

Charlotte Cardin — 99 Nights

DijahSB — The Flower That Knew

Jeremy Dutcher — Motewolonuwok

Elisapie — Inuktitut

Cindy Lee — Diamond Jubilee

NOBRO — Set Your Pussy Free

Allison Russell — The Returner

The Polaris Music Prize’s 20th anniversary gala is set to take place at Massey Hall on September 16, 2025. Congratulations to Jeremy Dutcher!