CRIA

The Canadian Recording Industry Association (CRIA), founded in 1964, served as a trade organization representing the interests of the Canadian music industry. Initially focused on promoting Canadian artists and advocating for copyright protection, CRIA played a significant role in the growth of the Canadian music scene. In the 1970s and 1980s, CRIA was instrumental in the rise of Canadian rock and pop artists, including influential acts like Rush, Leonard Cohen, and Anne Murray. The organization also championed the Canadian Content (CanCon) regulations, which mandated a certain percentage of Canadian music on radio and television, fostering a thriving domestic industry. In 2015, CRIA rebranded as Music Canada to better reflect its evolving mission, focusing on advocacy, research, and support for artists across various genres, including pop, rock, hip-hop, and country. The legacy of CRIA lies in its foundational role in shaping and supporting the Canadian music landscape, promoting homegrown talent on both national and international stages.