Bruce County native Owen Riegling has brought home one of Canadian country music’s biggest honours, winning Album of the Year at the Canadian Country Music Awards for his record "Bruce County (From The Beginning)".
In a heartfelt message shared after the show, Riegling said the award is not just his: it belongs to the community that shaped him.
“This album and award belong to the people of Bruce County,” he wrote. “Some of the songs on that project were written 7 years ago – back when I was a naive kid, riding down Bruce Road 3 to a buddy's place. Before I ever thought my name would be called to accept an award like this.”
The singer-songwriter said he penned the songs with his hometown in mind. “I wrote the songs on that record with my people in mind. The people who were born in Bruce County, and are now raising kids of their own on the same ground. Thanks for shaping me, supporting me, spreading the word to a friend, and keeping this fire inside of me lit for the past 10 years,” he added. "I owe you big time."
Riegling also thanked his family, noting how meaningful it was to have them in the crowd.
“My parents were in the house last night, Mom and Dad, you’ve always been such a huge support in my life and always have my back and believe in me," he shared. "There is no way I’d be where I am without you. Love you.”
The recognition capped off an unforgettable week for the rising star, who also opened for U.S. country superstar Luke Bryan in front of thousands of fans.
I always dreamed I would get to do this, never thought it would actually happen,” Riegling said. “When I first started down this crazy path it seemed so impossible, I thought the people getting to play on the big stages must have had some secret. Let me be proof that there is no secret, just keep chasing down what you believe is possible and it will happen. I’m just a dude from a little town in Canada, don’t take no for an answer.”
Looking ahead, Riegling gave fans one more reason to celebrate, teasing new music on the horizon.
“There will be a new record very soon,” he promised.