Country music is having a major moment—and Canada is right at the centre of it. As the genre continues its explosive resurgence, SiriusXM is once again opening the door for emerging artists with the return of Top of the Country, a competition that’s less about overnight fame and more about real, career-changing opportunity. In this Q&A, Michelle Mearns, Senior Vice President of Programming & Operations at SiriusXM Canada, shares how the platform is nurturing homegrown talent, what sets this competition apart, and why now is such a pivotal moment for Canada’s country music scene. —Noa Nichol
Why does the timing feel especially right for SiriusXM Top of the Country in 2026?
Country music continues to grow in Canada, and SiriusXM Top of the Country plays an important role in supporting that growth. The program supports artists at a meaningful stage in their careers through live performance, mentorship, and direct fan engagement. With showcase opportunities tied to major events like LASSO Montréal, CMA Fest in Nashville, and the CCMAs, these artists are able to reach new audiences at a point where that exposure can make a real impact.
Why is the combination of funding, mentorship, and major stage performances so crucial?
Many of the artists who apply to the program are already experienced musicians with a strong sense of their sound and identity. What they’re often looking for is meaningful support, industry exposure, and the opportunity to scale their audience. SiriusXM Top of the Country brings together financial support, industry mentorship and networking, and high-profile performance opportunities to help these artists take their next step with confidence.
What do the most successful winners tend to have in common?
Artists enter the program at many different stages, but those who gain the most from the experience are open to learning, performing, and connecting with new audiences. They fully engage with the opportunities offered, using the experience to build momentum and strengthen their careers beyond the competition itself.
How does SiriusXM help bridge the Canada to international gap?
Beyond airplay on SiriusXM’s platform across North America, the program helps Canadian country artists build real international connections. In addition to performing on major stages like CMA Fest in Nashville, finalists participate in networking sessions with industry representatives from markets such as Australia, the UK, and the United States, helping them better understand touring and global opportunities.
What excites you most about the talent coming through the competition?
Each year, we see more and more deeply talented artists with a wide range of perspectives and styles. Country music continues to evolve each year and it’s exciting to see those changes reflected in the artists who come through the program.
How does the competition still benefit artists who do not win?
While only one artist ultimately takes home the title and the $25,000 grand prize, SiriusXM Top of the Country is designed to support artists well beyond the winner. The two runners-up each receive $10,000, along with the national and international exposure, industry access, and live performance opportunities mentioned above. In addition, all top eight semifinalists record an original song and music video in studio, leveraging the program’s nationwide platform and reach and gaining visibility that extends well beyond the competition. That level of support can change the trajectory of an artist’s career.
How does listener engagement shape the journey?
Listener and fan engagement plays a huge role in SiriusXM Top of the Country, particularly during the semifinalist stage and through air play on Top of the Country Radio (ch 171). The top eight artists release original songs, giving audiences across Canada the opportunity to discover new music and vote on who advances to the top three. That direct connection between artists and fans helps shape the journey and the final outcome of the competition.
What would you say to an emerging artist considering applying?
SiriusXM Top of the Country offers meaningful support at every stage of the competition. From performance opportunities to mentorship and national exposure, the experience can help artists grow their audience and move their careers forward at a pivotal moment.
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