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Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inducts former Tottenham resident later this month

August 27, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

A man who was born and raised in Tottenham will be inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in September.

Ron Kitchener will be honoured during Country Music Week 2026 ceremonies in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on Sept. 16-19. He will be inducted in the 2026 Stan Klees Builder category.

“Ron’s impact on Canadian country music has been felt for over three decades, all through his deep belief in artists and the careers he has helped shape,” says Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) President Amy Jeninga.

“He has consistently championed talent and built opportunities where few existed, and this induction recognizes that lasting contribution. We are proud to welcome Ron into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and look forward to celebrating his legacy in Saskatoon.”

As the founder of RGK Entertainment Group, Kitchener’s career has spanned more than three decades as a music executive, entrepreneur and artist manager. He has guided the careers of acclaimed artists including Johnny Reid, Dean Brody, Corb Lund, Doc Walker, The Road Hammers, Time Hicks, Madeline Merlo, and Hunter Brothers.

Under Open Road Recordings, a company he founded, the label has sold millions of albums, produced 20 number-one singles, and more than 120 top 10 country radio hits.

“After producing my first campus concert, I was all in,” Kitchener said of his start in the music business. “While this is a rollercoaster business, there’s nothing better than when the song, the artist, and an enthusiastic live audience singing every word unite — it’s magic.”

He added, “I’ve been blessed to be part of bringing some of those moments to life, and it’s why I’m so deeply honoured by this recognition. I am indebted to Stan Klees’ legacy and to all those who paved the path before me. At the end of the day, it’s the talent up front and the tireless teams promoting the art from behind the scenes who make the long days worth it — lots of laughs, many cheers, and a few tears. That’s life in the music business, and I’m grateful for every second of it.”

Kitchener has played a significant role in expanding the reach of Canadian country music beyond borders. For over two decades, he has helped bring artists and tours to audiences across Australia and Europe, creating opportunities for homegrown talent on the global stage.

Individually, Kitchener has been named CCMA Manager of the Year 14 times and Industry Person of the Year three times, while Open Road captured Record Company of the Year for 6 straight years, from 2009 to 2014.

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