Michael Bublé prepares to host Junos amid surging Canadian pride

Juno Awards host Michael Bublé talks on why celebrating Canadian music is important now more than ever, as the event gears up for Rogers Arena this weekend.

Canada’s biggest night in music is on Sunday night in Vancouver.

The Juno Awards will be held inside Rogers Arena and will be hosted by Burnaby’s own Michael Bublé.

The global superstar met with reporters on Friday morning and was asked about the importance of this year’s show amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to Canada’s sovereignty.

“I’m one of those Canadians that’s a little stressed. And, of course, our sovereignty means everything to me,” said Bublé.

The 15-time Juno Award winner went on to say that his heart remains in Canada after years of international success, while living and raising a family in Metro Vancouver.

Bublé explained that the Junos hold a special place in his heart. The show provided a springboard for his career and allowed Canadians to rally around one of their own.

“I’ve watched it be a springboard for my fellow Canadians who have gone on to take Canadian culture and really grow it all over the planet,” said Bublé.

He told reporters that when he was approached to host the show, he didn’t hesitate to say yes, but under one condition: it had to be inclusive.

This year’s lineup of performers will include Aqyila, Josh Ross, Nemahsis, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Tia Wood, Sum 41, Jonita Gandhi and others.

“My yes came with asking if they would execute on my hope to be inclusive, and not because we’re supposed to be, not because we’re woke, not because an executive tells us to,” said Bublé.

“I wanted to be inclusive because it’s who we are. It’s why I love my country so much.”

The Juno Awards will begin on Sunday at 5 p.m.