Montreal’s Jeremy Dutcher has made Polaris Music Prize history, becoming the first artist to win the prestigious award twice. The classically trained vocalist was awarded the 2024 Polaris Prize for his album Motewolonuwok at a ceremony held at Massey Hall on September 17.

Chosen by an 11-member jury, the Polaris Music Prize is awarded annually to the best Canadian album based solely on artistic merit, regardless of genre or commercial success. Dutcher, clearly moved by the recognition, took the stage alongside his collaborators, thanking the music community for its support. “Six years ago, this award changed my life,” Dutcher said. “I have to give unending gratitude to this music community, please keep your hands going for all of these nominees.” He also took a moment to highlight the diversity of this year’s contenders, adding, “Not a single album on that list sounded like each other, and that speaks to the breadth of music in this place.”

Motewolonuwok, Dutcher’s second album, continues his exploration of Wolastoqey language and culture, which also earned him the Polaris Prize in 2018 for his debut album, Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa. Unlike his first album, which was sung entirely in the Indigenous Wolastoqey language, Motewolonuwok includes English lyrics, inviting a broader audience into the ongoing dialogue around reclamation and reconciliation.

Dutcher emphasized the significance of his win for Indigenous artists and languages, stating, “To bring forward art and music in this land, in our languages, with our esthetics — all I have to say is we are shining for you, now go shine for other people.”

During the evening, Dutcher also delivered a powerful performance of a medley that included “Sakomawit,” “Take My Hand,” and “Together We Emerge,” backed by a choir of singers. The performance received a standing ovation and served as a reminder of his artistic range and cultural dedication.

Share this :