Call for entries: 2020 Blues Music Awards

Categories for submissions include Acoustic Blues, Blues Rock, Contemporary Blues, Soul Blues and Traditional Blues.

Songs released between 1 November 2018 and 31 October 2019 are eligible for nominations.

The submission process opened on 1 July via the Blues Foundation’s online service.

The submission deadline and fees are as follows:

• 1 to 31 July ($135 per submission).
• 1 to 31 August ($155 per submission).
• 1 to 30 September ($180 per submission).
• 1 to 15 October ($225 per submission).

Requirements

• Acoustic blues albums must feature non-electric/amplified instruments on at least 75% of tracks.
• Blues rock albums generally combine the two genres by featuring heavy amplification and driving rhythms.
• Contemporary blues albums often employ techniques and elements that are different than those found in classic blues tracks (for example, different rhythms, harmonies, more elaborate instrumentation, lyrics, production values, etc.).
• Soul blues albums typically show elements of gospel music.
• Traditional blues albums must be comprised of traditional electric blues song structures and harmonies (this category may also include jump/swing blues and Chicago blues styles).

“The submission process officially closes on 15 October,” the organisers said. “You must upload your music and artwork and complete payment for your submission transaction no later than 15 October to be considered for a Blues Music Award nomination.”

Artists must upload their complete blues music album as a WAV file with album artwork uploaded as a JPEG or PDF file.

Individuals who need assistance with uploading their music, album artwork and/or liner notes, should contact Joe Whitmer at joe@blues.org.

About the awards

The Blues Music Awards started in 1980 and are universally recognised as the highest accolade afforded musicians and songwriters in blues music. The awards were formerly known as the WC Handy Awards (or the Handys) but were renamed in 2006 in an effort to increase public appreciation for the awards.

View the original call here.