Bluegrass Music's Finest Honored at the 35th Annual IBMA Awards

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has announced the nominees, recipients, and inductees to be recognized at the 35th Annual Bluegrass Music Awards show, set to take place on September 26 in Raleigh, North Carolina. The event, which is part of the IBMA's World of Bluegrass business conference and Bluegrass Live! festival, will celebrate the genre's most outstanding artists, songwriters, and industry professionals.

Honoring the Trailblazers and Innovators of Bluegrass Music

Recognizing the Year's Top Performers

The 2023 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards will shine a spotlight on the genre's most captivating acts. Leading the pack with multiple nominations are Billy Strings, Sister Sadie, Authentic Unlimited, and Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway. These artists have consistently pushed the boundaries of bluegrass, delivering performances that captivate audiences and showcase the genre's enduring appeal.Billy Strings, the young phenom who has taken the bluegrass world by storm, is nominated for Entertainer of the Year, Instrumental Group of the Year, and Guitar Player of the Year. His virtuosic guitar work and dynamic stage presence have earned him widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as one of the most exciting artists in the genre.Sister Sadie, the all-female quintet, is also a strong contender, earning nominations for Vocal Group of the Year, Song of the Year, and Female Vocalist of the Year. Their powerful harmonies and emotive songwriting have resonated with fans, cementing their reputation as one of the most compelling acts in contemporary bluegrass.Authentic Unlimited, the dynamic trio, has garnered recognition for their innovative sound, earning nominations for Vocal Group of the Year, Song of the Year, and Gospel Recording of the Year. Their ability to seamlessly blend traditional bluegrass with modern influences has earned them a devoted following.Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, the acclaimed singer-songwriter and her band, are also in the running for multiple awards, including Entertainer of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year, and Instrumental Group of the Year. Tuttle's virtuosic guitar playing and captivating vocals have made her one of the most celebrated artists in the genre.

Honoring Bluegrass Legends and Trailblazers

The IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards also recognize the contributions of bluegrass legends and trailblazers. This year, three esteemed individuals will be inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, the highest honor bestowed by the IBMA.Jerry Douglas, the renowned dobro player, will be inducted for his exceptional musicianship and his pivotal role in shaping the sound of contemporary bluegrass. Douglas has collaborated with countless artists and has been a driving force in the genre for decades.Katy Daley, the respected broadcaster and journalist, will be honored for her tireless efforts in promoting and preserving the legacy of bluegrass music. Her dedication to the genre has been instrumental in raising its profile and introducing it to new audiences.Alan Munde, the acclaimed banjo player and educator, will also be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Munde's virtuosic playing and his contributions to the development of bluegrass banjo technique have left an indelible mark on the genre.In addition to the Hall of Fame inductees, the IBMA will also recognize several Distinguished Achievement Award recipients, including Cindy Baucom, Laurie Lewis, Richard Hurst, ArtistWorks, and the Bloomin' Bluegrass Festival. These individuals and organizations have made significant contributions to the advancement and promotion of bluegrass music.

Celebrating the Artistry and Diversity of Bluegrass

The 35th Annual IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards will showcase the remarkable diversity and artistry within the genre. From the powerful vocals of Sister Sadie to the instrumental mastery of Billy Strings, the event will celebrate the genre's finest talents and their unique contributions.The awards ceremony will feature live performances by some of the nominees, offering attendees a glimpse into the dynamic and ever-evolving world of bluegrass music. Fans and industry professionals alike will have the opportunity to witness the passion and virtuosity that define the genre.As the bluegrass community gathers in Raleigh, the 35th Annual IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards will serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of this beloved American art form. The event will not only honor the genre's most accomplished artists but also inspire the next generation of bluegrass musicians to push the boundaries and continue the tradition of excellence.