‘It means so much’: 2025 East Coast Music Awards handed out in St. John’s

Big wins and bigger memories at the East Coast Music Awards in St. John’s.

The 37th annual East Coast Music Awards lit up the Mary Brown’s Centre in St. John’s on Thursday night, celebrating some of the region’s brightest musical talents.

The evening included a heartfelt tribute to Mark Hiscock of the band Shanneyganock, who passed away suddenly earlier this week. The night also featured a special performance by The Irish Descendants, who sang Let Me Fish Off Cape St. Mary’s — honouring the song’s recent induction into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.

“The song was written by a man named Otto Kelland, so tonight we are going to sing our version of it— to what I think will be a happy crowd," said frontman Con O’Brien in an interview from the red carpet with CTV Atlantic’s Katie Kelly.

The first award of the night was presented to Nova Scotia’s Loviet, named Breakthrough Artist of the Year.

Kellie Loder had a standout night on home turf, taking home both TD Fan’s Choice Entertainer of the Year and Fan’s Choice Video of the Year for their song “Can’t Go Back.”

Fellow Newfoundlanders The Ennis Sisters were honoured with the Dr. Helen Creighton Lifetime Achievement Award. “It’s been almost three decades we’ve been doing this,” said Moreen Ennis. “It means so much to be recognized in this way.”

Nova Scotia’s Jah’Mila won R&B/Soul Recording of the Year and used her acceptance speech to talk about changes that need to be made at the East Coast Music Association.

“This category, having been won by a reggae song, is a very clear example of the kind of reform that I’m excited for the ECMA to take on,” she said. “Because reggae is not soul. I am grateful for it, but it is not soul.”

Classified is the top nominated artist this year – he picked up his first piece of hardware for Solo Artist of the Year.

“I love that my music is still getting that shine and appreciation,” he said.

For many artists, it was their first time performing in — or even visiting — Newfoundland.

“This is my first time on the Rock,” said singer-songwriter Haliey Smith. “I’m excited to taste the food, I’m enjoying the drinks — we’re turning up!”

Maggie Andrew was also excited.

“I went to YellowBelly and walked around George Street — it’s living up to the hype.”

From newcomers to seasoned performers, the night was a true celebration of East Coast artistry and the festivities aren’t over yet. More awards will be handed out Sunday at the East Coast Music & Industry Awards in St. John’s.

A full list of winners, performers and highlights is available online.