Published September 19, 2023, 9:48 a.m. ET
Updated September 19, 2023, 11:28 p.m. ET
Debby Friday performs at the Polaris Music Prize Gala in Toronto on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young
Debby Friday won the 2023 Polaris Music Prize for her album “Good Luck.”
The Nigerian-born Canadian’s debut release was selected by an 11-member grand jury for the $50,000 prize and named the best Canadian album of the year for its artistic quality.
On “Good Luck,” Friday builds on the industrial sounds of her previous EPs with more soulful vocals.
Music critics have compared her album to artists as diverse as industrial metal band Ministry, Nine Inch Nails, rappers Run the Jewels and Beyoncé.
The Polaris Music Prize is considered one of the most prestigious music prizes in the country.
Previous winners include Pierre Kwenders, Haviah Mighty, Jeremy Dutcher and Kaytranada.
Freitag thanked many people who helped her in her career and reflected on her childhood in a small village in Nigeria.
“This is something I didn’t know was a possibility,” she said from the stage.
“Now I’m here today and it just feels like a miracle.”
An eclectic group of Canadian musicians competed for this year’s award, including Feist, Aysanabee, the Sadies, Snotty Nose Rez Kids and Dan Mangan.
“Pop culture fanatic. Introvert. Devoted food trailblazer. Bacon geek. Lifelong coffee evangelist.”