McCoy's last stand as host of CMAOntario awards
The award show is part of a four-day festival that started Thursday and is packed with performances, workshops and a post-awards party.
On Sunday, June 1, the awards show will close the festival at The Music Hall on Hamilton's Main Street West.
One of McCoy's favourite moments hosting was performing Gordon Lightfoot's 'If You Could Read My Mind' for the legendary Canadian singer-songwriter when he received the association's Impact Award in 2014.
'I was probably 15 feet away from him in the front row and that was quite unnerving,' said McCoy, adding Lightfoot was gracious and kind.
'Spotlights and everything go down and everybody's just a regular person.'
The 54-year-old musician is continuing his career, shooting music videos with his band The Road Hammers, performing and hosting a Pure Country 106 morning show.
To McCoy, Ontario's country music scene is pushing its way to the global grounds, starting with a foundation of talented producers.
'These producers are working with Nashville peers and they get to hone their craft, up their game,' said McCoy.
'Ontario artists don't necessarily have to just go to Nashville anymore.'
McCoy sees Ontario becoming 'bigger, better and stronger' with up-and-coming artists such as Parry Sound singer Sully Burrows,
Hamilton-based
Karli June and Hamilton band The Redhill Valleys — all of whom have been nominated for CMAOntario Awards.
The Redhill Valleys are vying for Group or Duo of the Year, June is competing for Music Video of the Year for her song 'Still Make Cowgirls,' and Waterdown's Josh Ross is again nominated for fans' choice. Ross won the award in 2024.
No matter who wins, McCoy said viewers should pay attention to smaller up-and-coming artists putting their heart and soul into their music.
'Watch all the people who are in the corners,' said McCoy.
The awards show will run from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
Although the country star is stepping down as host, McCoy said he is never fully gone.
'I might come back and co-host the odd time or something like that,' he said.
The country association's board of directors said the search for a new host has already started.
'Filling Jason's boots as the host of the CMAOntario Awards will be no easy task,' read an email statement.
The board is looking for a 'major player' in the Ontario country music scene who can uplift and entertain. The term would be 12 years.
Tickets to the award show ranges from $40 for balcony general admission to $199 regular VIP tickets.
To buy tickets or get more information on the festival, go to
cmaontario2025.eventbrite.ca
.
Here are some other arts and music events you can attend locally in the next week:
Thursday, June 5, is the first of Hamilton Waterfront Trust's free summer concerts by the water.
Every Thursday until Aug. 28, artists will take to the Waterfront Stage at Pier 8 (
47 Discovery Dr., Hamilton
) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Mike Stevenson Trio will play the first show. Attendees should bring a lawn chair or blanket.
For more information, go to
hamiltonwaterfront.com/music-on-the-waterfront
.
Evan Smith, Vaughn Lucyk and Josh Robertson will perform at 'The AM Club' on Saturday, May 31 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Coffee and pastries will be offered at the event.
The coffee party will happen at The Port House Social Bar and Kitchen at
2020 Lakeshore Rd. in Burlington
.
Tickets are $20 on
eventbrite.ca
.
The Queen Is Dead and Factory will play sounds from the Smiths and New Order at the bar on Saturday, May 31 from 8 to 11:30 p.m.
The bar is located at
339 York Blvd., Hamilton
.
Advance tickets are $15, or $20 at the door. To buy, go to
stonewallshamilton.com/events
.
Local folk, rock and country artists will perform at the theatre's The Bright Room on Sunday, June 1, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.
Hamilton band The Commune, Guelph singer-songwriter Ian James Bain and Michael Antelope will play the show.
The theatre is located at
27 Dundurn St. N., Hamilton
. Tickets are $15 on
eventbrite.ca
. For more information, go to
staircasehamilton.com/event
.
For The Sugar Pills will perform '80s music from artists such as the Smiths, The Police, Depeche Mode and Duran Duran on Thursday, June 5 from 8 to 11 p.m.
Andthenyou is located at
145 Main St. E., Hamilton
. To buy tickets, go to
andthenyou.ca
. Advance tickets are $10, or $15 at the door.
Cheyenne Bholla is a reporter at The Hamilton Spectator.
cbholla@thespec.com
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Newsweek
9 hours ago
- Newsweek
WWE's Chelsea Green Says She Received Death Threats After Hulk Hogan Tribute
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Chelsea Green is stepping away from social media after receiving death threats in response to her tribute to Hulk Hogan, the late wrestling icon whose legacy remains deeply polarising. The Canadian WWE star said the backlash to her comments—made during a televised segment and later reiterated online—quickly escalated into harassment, forcing her to take a break from social media for her mental well-being. Newsweek contacted WWE via email for comment on Sunday outside of usual working hours. WWE's Chelsea Green announces a Seattle Seahawks pick during the third day of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on April 26, 2025. WWE's Chelsea Green announces a Seattle Seahawks pick during the third day of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on April 26, It Matters Green said she is stepping back from social media following "the name calling, the death threats, the faceless accounts" in response to her remarks about Hogan. The controversy began after Green, 34, appeared on CBS News 24/7 on Thursday, shortly after news broke of WWE legend Hogan's death, on July 24, 2025, at age 71. In the live interview, she praised his legacy and reflected on her positive personal experiences with him, while briefly noting his "polarising political views." Hogan had been a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump prior to his death. As reported by Wrestling News, her remarks, along with the now-deleted social media post, drew criticism from some fans who felt she downplayed the more controversial parts of Hogan's history, including the racism scandal that led to his temporary suspension from WWE in 2015. As reported by Newsweek, in July 2015, Hogan was suddenly removed from all WWE programming and erased from the company's website after he was revealed to have used racist slurs in a private conversation. The scandal re-emerged following Hogan's death, reigniting debate over his complicated legacy. The offensive remarks came to light as part of an investigation into a leaked sex tape that was central to Hogan's legal battle with Gawker Media. Hogan was found to have repeatedly used the n-word and made racially charged comments about his daughter's dating life. WWE swiftly terminated his contract and released a statement reaffirming its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Hogan later issued a public apology, calling his language "unacceptable" and stating it was "not who I am." His removal marked a turning point for professional wrestling's engagement with issues of racism and accountability. As one of the sport's most iconic figures, Hogan's fall from grace sent shockwaves through the industry and sparked wider conversations about how entertainment companies handle misconduct involving high-profile stars. What to Know Green faced intense backlash following her live TV interview and social media post in which she spoke respectfully about the late Hogan's impact on professional wrestling, while acknowledging his controversial political history. "Polarizing political views aside, he was an absolute icon," Green told CBS News 24/7. "If it weren't for Hulk Hogan, there are many of us in the wrestling industry that absolutely would not be here. He inspired a massive generation, so it's a loss that we are feeling deeply in the wrestling community. "I think all of the '80s and '90s babies really grew up with Hulk as their idol in one way or another," Green added later. "And I can't imagine what his family is feeling right now, but it's amazing to see the community—and not just the wrestling community, but the community—come together and honor an American icon." Green echoed the same sentiment in a now deleted follow-up tribute shared on social media, as per the Irish Star. "Political views aside, Hulk Hogan's influence on the wrestling world was clearly undeniable," she wrote. "He inspired millions and shaped an entire generation of fans, my husband included. We are mourning the loss of an icon... a legend. My love goes out to his family." Green was accused of minimizing Hogan's past racism and not adequately condemning it. In a follow-up statement on X, Green emphasized her anti-racism stance. "A significant part of my role at @WWE involves engaging w the public & responding to questions, often on live platforms. "Yesterday, I was asked to comment on Hulk Hogan on live tv. Let me be clear: my stance on racism is unwavering. I do not condone it—period." However, the criticism escalated to personal attacks, name-calling, and death threats from anonymous online accounts. In a post on her X account on Saturday, Green said: "I've tried to keep my page positive and comedic, but today, a lot changed... and it hit harder than I expected. The name calling, the death threats, the faceless accounts. "Social media was supposed to be a fun place and it hasn't been for a while. It's been overwhelming and I need to step away for a little bit." The post has since had 1.1 million views. What People Are Saying In a previous X post before leaving the platform, Green said: "If my response (or tweet) seemed dismissive of real concerns, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention. I tried to acknowledge a death respectfully, even when the legacy is complicated. I am learning one day at a time and will continue to learn." What Happens Next Green is currently on a social media hiatus and has not announced when she plans to return.
Hamilton Spectator
14 hours ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Free dance, baseball games, car show this weekend in Hamilton
Electronic Shore bringing trance to Hamilton for fourth year Hnr Sound, a trance and progressive DJ duo, hope to share the impact the genre has had on them, with listeners Weekend events show no sign of slowing down, with free dance lessons, baseball games and more coming up. Environment Canada issued a heat warning that is in effect until at least Friday. Here is what you can do — indoors, while staying cool, and outdoors — this weekend. The Hamilton Filipino heritage festival is back at Bayfront Park ( 200 Harbour Front Dr. ) this weekend. From Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27, there are live performances, dance, art, food, cultural exhibits and vendors. Celebrity guests Dessa (Saturday) and Joross Gamboa (Sunday) are featured. There is free parking on site. The Hamilton Fringe Festival continues into this weekend. From ' Brown Noise ,' a standup, sketch and storytelling blend about the South Asian-Canadian experience (tickets for $8) to the cabaret show ' An Urbanist Burlesque ' (free), there are many shows to see. Performances are held at several venues across Hamilton, including The Westdale ( 1014 King St. W. ), Mills Hardware ( 95 King St. E. ), The Staircase Theatre ( 27 Dundurn St. N. ) and the Players' Guild of Hamilton ( 80 Queen St. S. ). For more details on specific plays, times and locations, go to . Line Dance Fridays are back at Studio G Hamilton ( 126 James St. N. ) on July 25 from 7 to 9 p.m. New and experienced dancers are welcome, with lessons progressing from beginner to intermediate. The studio is on the building's second floor. Go to to buy tickets. Steel City Swing hosts their Sunday Social dances at the roller rink near Pier 8 ( 47 Discovery Dr. ) on July 27. At 6:30 p.m., learn a beginner lesson before dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. No partner is required. Bring comfortable shoes, water and maybe a sun hat. Visit for more information. Grab your mat and water bottle and do yoga under the morning sun on Sunday, July 27 from 9 to 10 a.m. All levels of experience are invited to Dundas Driving Park ( 71 Cross St. ). Tickets are available by donation to host Dundas Yoga and Fitness. Seasons Stoney Creek Retirement Community hosts Cars and Coffee, a car showcase with servings of coffee, tea and treats, on Sunday, July 27 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The free showcase is held at 8 Shoreview Pl. , featuring refreshments, prizes and a chance to win football tickets. Appreciate the cars while mingling with the retirement home residents. Take the family out to the Hamilton Craft Market's event and explore more than 30 vendors' handmade goods, sweets and treats, woodworks, soaps and jewelry on Saturday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Receive a free raffle ticket upon arrival and enjoy a barbecue at St. Michael's Hungarian Hall ( 521 West 5th St. ). The market is also hosting a food drive to support the Neighbour to Neighbour Centre's food bank. Bring a non-perishable food item to donate. Go to for more. Brad Williams, a comedian who has appeared on 'The Tonight Show,' 'Sam and Cat' and Hulu's 'Deadbeat,' performs at FirstOntario Concert Hall ( 1 Summers Ln. ) on Sunday, July 27 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $62.30, including fees and taxes, on Ticketmaster. Go to for tickets. There are two Intercounty Baseball League games this weekend. The Hamilton Cardinals will face the Barrie Baycats on Friday, July 25 at 7:35 p.m. at Bernie Arbour Memorial Stadium ( 1100 Mohawk Rd. E. ). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, July 27, the team will play the Welland Jackfish at 2:05 p.m. Doors open at 1 p.m. Tickets to each game are $13.56, including taxes and fees. Go to to buy. Join a group of coffee and cycling lovers in exploring seven local cafés on Sunday, July 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The group meets at Bayfront Park ( 200 Harbour Front Dr. ), cycling to Mulberry Coffeehouse, Relay Coffee Roasters, One For All Coffee, Cafe Baffico, The Cannon, Vintage Coffee Roasters and Hutch's Harbour Front. Menu options range from pastries to sandwiches to fish and chips and pizza. If you don't own a bike, you can rent a city bike for $9 per hour. Go to for more information. Bill King hosts a 'Weird and Wonderful' free walking tour on Sunday, July 27. The group meets at King and John streets at 10 a.m. for the two-hour tour before chatting at Redchurch Cafe. Historian Robin McKee hosts a two-hour Hamilton cemetery ( 777 York Blvd. ) tour on Saturday, July 26 at 11 a.m. The group meets at the gatehouse and the theme is 'Hamilton Firsts.' For more information, go to . Burlington singer-songwriter Hayley Verrall performs at Joseph Brant Museum ( 1240 North Shore Blvd. E. ) for the rooftop event on Friday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. This is the second of four one-hour performances for the summer event series. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets include the live performance, lawn games, light refreshments, popcorn and admission to the museum galleries. Tickets are $20 for adults or $15 for seniors and students. In the case of inclement weather, performances will be moved to the museum's lakefront or shoreline rooms. Visit for tickets or more information. Cheyenne Bholla is a reporter at The Hamilton Spectator. cbholla@ Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
New York Post
18 hours ago
- New York Post
Who is Robert Shinn, ‘TikTok cult' leader whose home was raided in federal sex-trafficking probe?
Investigators from at least four federal agencies raided a California home Friday linked to mysterious 'TikTok' cult Pastor Robert Shinn, the founder of a so-called talent agency that allegedly exploited amateur dancers with promises of TikTok stardom. A handful of people were led away from the home — located in Los Angeles' Tujunga neighborhood — in handcuffs, after FBI, IRS, US Postal Service and Labor Department agents swooped in on the residence. However, it was unclear if Shinn, 87, who has been likened to a cult leader, was among them. Advertisement So, who exactly is Shinn? In 1994, he founded the Shekinah Church, a Christian congregation recently profiled in Netflix's documentary series 'Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult' that initially served as a house of worship for Korean Americans in LA. Shinn also owns 7M Films and is associated with several other California businesses, including Shinn Entertainment Corp., IP Random Film, IHD Studio and Glory Bag Records. Advertisement 3 Pastor Robert Shinn has multiple companies and may be worth $15 million. KTLA 5 He shares ownership of the home that was raided Friday with multiple people. A self-proclaimed 'man of God,' Shinn is alleged to have lured dancers to sign with his talent agency, 7M Films. He allegedly assured them he could turn them into TikTok sensations. Instead, Shinn allegedly financially and physically manipulated and abused the dancers, encouraging some of them to disown their families. Advertisement Other dancers have accused Shinn of sexual assault. The church allegedly encouraged members to surrender their time and money in support of its mission to save one billion souls from damnation. 3 It was unclear if Shinn was arrested during Friday's raid. KTLA 5 The warrants served at the house Friday involved allegations of sex trafficking, money laundering, mail fraud, tax evasion and COVID-19-related fraud, according to the Los Angeles Times. Advertisement Still others were forced to join the Shekinah Church and later served as recruiters for 7M. Shinn, who is married to Hannah Shinn, has previously denied claims that the Shenikah Church and 7M are affiliated, TV Insider reported. The Canadian-born Shinn is estimated to be worth $15 million. One of his children, singer-songwriter Kloë Shinn, defected from the church in 2022 with her husband Daniel Joseph, according to Cosmo, which added that he also has two sons, Conrad and Isaiah. Her music has appeared on reality shows like 'Queer Eye' and 'The Real Housewives' as well as the movie 'Random Encounters,' a 2013 film starring Meghan Markle — that was produced by her father. 3 Women have accused Shinn of physical and sexual assault. KTLA 5 Several former dancers and ex-members of the Shekinah Church teamed up to sue Shinn in 2022. The lawsuit alleges exploitation and labor law violations by the church and Shinn, and remains active. In 2009, a woman named Lydia Chung sued Shinn, alleging he'd forced her to turn over $3.8 million in assets through 'undue influence, mind control, coercive persuasion, oppression and other intimidating tactics,' according to the lawsuit. Advertisement She also said the church made her work six days a week, but never paid her. A judge ultimately ruled against her. In 2011, Jung Hee Lee, a former Shekinah member, sued Shinn for allegedly forcing her to work full-time for only a $30 weekly stipend. She won that case, and Shinn was ordered to pay her the compensation she should've received. Shinn himself filed a defamation lawsuit against several former church members after they referred to the organization as a cult, according to CNN.
