Today, MDM Recordings Inc. proudly announces Kyle McKearney as the 2022 recipient of the inaugural Henry Armstrong Award. Launched earlier this year, the Henry Armstrong Award is an annual bursary and mentorship program created to develop, elevate, and support the diverse talents in the Canadian Indigenous music community. McKearney will receive a $10,000 bursary along with a tailored mentorship program of professional development services, and was chosen out of numerous entries by a juried selection process via a committee of Canadian music industry professionals. McKearney made an impressive debut with the release of his debut solo album Down-Home, and continues to make a name for himself as one of Canada’s newest and brightest voices in the Americana/Roots/Country music scenes.

“Mike Denney and the committee have created something extremely special with the Henry Armstrong Award,” says McKearney. “To be selected as the winner in its first year is an overwhelming honour that feels surreal; especially for an award that spotlights, funds, and offers mentorship to Indigenous Peoples. I will always do my best to bridge diversion through music and give voice to those unheard. We still have a long ways to go, but this opportunity is a wonderful start.”

“Year one of the Henry Armstrong Award has far surpassed what I thought we could accomplish,” shares Mike Denney, President and founder of MDM Recordings Inc. “My goal with this award was to create an opportunity for the Canadian Indigenous music community that may not have otherwise existed, and to play a small part towards building a more equitable industry for all.  I would like to thank the numerous committee members, jurors, radio and media partners, and more whose support was immeasurable. It truly takes a village and I am forever indebted to all of these amazing people who helped make this happen. I can’t wait for year two!”

Named for Denney’s grandfather Lloyd Henry and mother Gloria Denney (née Armstrong), both fellow Six Nations Lower Mohawk, The Henry Armstrong Award aims to provide unique opportunities for growth and development to the selected recipient. The genesis for the HAA began in the spring of 2021, following the initial uncovering of the 215 Indigenous children in the Kamloops Residential School mass grave. Knowing he wanted to help, Denney called upon his fellow industry and quickly put together a committee united with the goal of promoting inclusivity, equity, and equality in the Canadian Indigenous Music space and beyond.

The HAA icon was conceptualized and designed by Leticia Spence from Pimicikamak and Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Spence is a freelance graphic designer and illustrator based in Treaty One territory.

For more information on the Henry Armstrong Award please visit: henryarmstrongaward.ca