Michael Bublé hosted the 54th annual Juno Awards in Vancouver on March 30, 2025. He took a veiled dig at U.S. President Donald Trump during his monologue. Bublé declared that Canada is “not for sale,” an apparent response to comments made by Trump.
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Trump had recently described the U.S.-Canada border as an “artificial line.” He mused about the possibility of Canada becoming America’s “51st state.” These comments have sparked controversy and strong reactions from both Canadian politicians and citizens. Bublé expressed his pride in being Canadian. “Folks, we’re one of a kind,” the singer said.
“We are beautiful. We are the greatest nation on Earth. And we are not for sale.”
Palestinian-Canadian singer Nemahsis took home two @TheJUNOAwards this weekend, for best alternative album and breakthrough artist of the year.
"This is dedicated to all the hijabis," she said in her acceptance.
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— Richie Assaly (@rdassaly) March 31, 2025
He continued, “When you love something, you show up for it, and we always will.
Congratulations to all the DWF Artist Ambassadors' 2025 Juno wins and nominations! @sebastiangaskin @Elisapie @jtaylorband @KevinHearnMusic
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— Downie Wenjack Fund (@downiewenjack) March 31, 2025
We will, because we’re formidable, because we’re fearless, because we don’t just acknowledge our differences, we embrace them. Because they don’t just make us stronger, they make us a hell of a lot more interesting.”
Canadian politicians have also reacted strongly to Trump’s rhetoric.
Bublé stands up for Canada
Canadian MP Charlie Angus claimed that the Trump administration’s references to Canada as the “51st state” and the increased tariffs on Canadian goods amounted to an “act of war.”
In early March, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all imports of steel and aluminum. Canada is set to face a 25% tax on all imported goods starting April 2, which has led to boycotts of U.S. products in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney has suggested that the relationship between Canada and the U.S. has fundamentally changed.
“The old relationship we had with the United States, based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperations, is over,” Carney told reporters last week. Despite the rising tensions, Trump stated that he had an “extremely productive” conversation with Prime Minister Carney. White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly added, “As President Trump has said, Canadians like Michael Bublé can continue to perform ‘O Canada’ to honor America’s cherished 51st state.”
The Juno Awards also celebrated various Canadian artists.
Tate McRae won big, taking home awards for best single, best artist, and best pop album. The Beaches were named best group, while Josh Ross won country album of the year. The night marked the final live performance of Canadian rockers Sum 41 as they were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Music legend Anne Murray was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The 2025 Juno Awards highlighted the strength and solidarity of Canada’s cultural community amidst external challenges, reinforcing national pride and unity.
