Rankin MacInnis is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Mabou, NS. Known for fronting Rankin & the Broken Reeds and Party Boots, he is also a co-founder and host of Blueberry Jam in Cape Breton and Rankin's Winter Warmers in Halifax.
Big shout out to our interview team for their "apparently" hard work before, during and after the Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame 2026. Brett Santacona and Becca Elizabeth (CBMIC Marketing Committee members) showing the reality of live stuff! Lol, Great work, team! More stuff to come! ... See MoreSee Less
The energy is electric...we’re getting ready because tonight is finally the night!
The 2026 Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame show is tonight at 7pm with our legendary musical takeover celebrating our very best. Will we see you tonight?
Mary Frances may not be baiting her mom, but we like to think she is baiting you to come to the Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame 2026 tonight and watch her and her mom honour inductee Buddy MacMaster. Still some seats available.
THE HEARTBEAT OF THE NIGHT — MEET YOUR HOUSE BAND!
Behind every legendary tribute on June 18th at Centre 200 stands an extraordinary group of musicians powering the entire evening. Meet the HOUSE BAND — the talented core supporting every artist at the Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame!
Brian Talbot – Drums Steady, powerful playing and deep groove across rock, folk, and East Coast music.
Emily Dingwall – Bass / Vocals One of Atlantic Canada's most respected bassists/vocalists. In 2026 she received the ECMA Musician's Achievement Award in Sydney.
Lyndon MacKenzie – Electric / Acoustic Guitar Versatile player focused on rhythm, texture, and supporting the band's overall sound.
Jordan Lewis – Electric Guitar Solid rhythm and tasteful lead playing, at home in any setting.
Fred Lavery – Acoustic / Electric Guitar Veteran musician, producer, and studio owner respected for his musical leadership.
Shawn MacDonald – Fiddle Renowned fiddler, educator, and Concert Master of the Cape Breton Orchestra, with five-plus decades on stage.
Aaron Lewis – Piano / Acoustic / Accordion Award-winning multi-instrumentalist, former CCMA nominee and NS Country Music Hall of Fame inductee.
Together, this powerhouse group provides the musical backbone for an evening of legendary tributes and once-in-a-lifetime performances. When you hear the magic on June 18th — this is the heartbeat behind it all.
Seven musicians. One unforgettable night. Pure Cape Breton.
📅 June 18th | Centre 200 | Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame