Le Devoir received a prestigious award at the Global Media Awards presented by the International News Media Association (INMA). This event recognizes excellence in media globally. In addition to the award, the media outlet’s revenue diversification strategy was also acknowledged.
Recognition for Innovative Journalism
The interactive report titled “Do Songs Today Shrink?” captured first place in the Best Use of Visual Journalism Tools and Storytelling category for regional brands. Created by journalist Sarah Boumedda, designer Cédric Gagnon, and developer Justin Caisse, this report uses a database of over 40,000 songs from 2000 to 2025.
Analyzing Music Trends
The report explores the trend of shortening song lengths, including hits from artists like Katy Perry and Lady Gaga, as well as recent tracks from Sabrina Carpenter and Doechii. Boumedda aimed to analyze this shift in the music industry.
Using a vibrant and engaging format, the report incorporates data, expert testimonials, interactive graphics, and song excerpts. It examines the origins of this phenomenon, particularly its connection to social media and its impact on various music genres, including the Quebec music industry.
Insights from the Team
Sarah Boumedda expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, “It’s a beautiful acknowledgment, and I’m genuinely happy.” She explained the team’s initial observation of the trend in their personal lives, which sparked the desire to quantify and analyze it critically.
Claudine St-Germain, the information director at Le Devoir, praised the team’s creativity. “Transforming raw data into a clear and engaging interactive content requires significant ingenuity,” she said. “Finding the ideal blend of data journalism, development, and design is exceptionally challenging, but this team excelled.”
Acknowledgment of Business Practices
The INMA gala also recognizes effective business practices supporting media and journalism. Le Devoir earned an honorable mention for its innovative income diversification strategy, which includes regaining control of its copyright management and expanding its intellectual property management service. This service now represents over 150 media outlets, primarily in Quebec and across Canada.
Brian Myles, director of Le Devoir, expressed pride in the organization’s accomplishments. “Being recognized by INMA is profoundly rewarding,” he stated. “This recognition motivates us to continue creating original content that inspires trust.”
