Awards Guidelines and Categories, FAQs
2025 Western Canadian Music Artistic and Industry Awards are Open
CONTENTS
Awards and Festival Guidelines
Updates for 2025
Artistic and Specialty Awards submissions will begin on February 19, 2025.
You must create a login profile on Awardstage to begin your submission. You will have to create an account to start. If you experience issues with Awardstage please contact johnny@breakoutwest.ca.
The Western Canadian Music Awards has added a new Artistic category. Check out the Artistic Award category for Afrobeats definition.
If submitting to more than one award, please note that the process has changed, if you need any assistance we invite you to watch the short video we have prepared.
Click Here to view a submission tutorial video
Early Bird Dates
February 19 - March 19, 2025 11:59 PM PDT
Artistic and Specialty Submission Fees
| MIA Member | Non-Member | |
| Early Bird | 15% Off | 15% Off |
| Regular | $18.00 per category | $20.00 per category |
Industry Submission Fees
| MIA Member | Non-Member | |
| Early Bird | Free | 15% Off |
| Regular | Free | $10.00 per category |
CONSIDERATIONS
• Submission to the awards do not guarantee a nomination.
• All submissions are only accepted online. If internet access is a barrier to submission, please contact your local Music Industry Association or johnny@breakoutwest.ca
• Submission fee payments must be made online by credit card
• Read all guidelines and category requirements carefully to ensure qualification.
• It is highly recommended that applications submit well in advance of the deadline to ensure there are no unforeseen issues. Submissions that experience technical issues within 24 hours of the deadline will not be granted an exemption if they are late. This may lead to your application not being eligible.
Click here to download the Awards Submission Guidelines as a .pdf
WESTERN CANADIAN MUSIC AWARDS Guidelines and FAQ
1. When is the submission deadline?
The submission deadline for WCMA 2025 11:59 PM PST on Friday, April 16, 2025.
It is highly recommended that applications be submitted well before the deadline to ensure there are no unforeseen issues at the time of submission. Late applications due to technical issues within 24 hours of the deadline will not be considered acceptable grounds for late submission.
2. Who can apply for the awards?
Submissions can be made by the Artist/Industry professional themselves or they can be submitted on the Artist’s/Industry professional’s behalf.
3. Do I have to complete my entire submission at one time?
- No. You have the ability to sign in and out of your submission at any time to be able to complete it over the course of time.
- Once you confirm and complete your submission, and after payment is accepted, you will no longer be able to sign into that specific submission.
- Make sure to have all information correct before confirming your submission.
4. How do I know that my submission has been properly submitted?
Submitting is a four-part process:
- Have ready all media, music and documents. Create an account to submit.
- Complete and upload music, info and pictures for your online submission.
- Complete payment page
- You will receive and email indicating that you have completed. Keep that for reference if you have any questions
5. Do I have to be a member of my province's Music Industry Association to submit to the awards or play the Festival?
- No. It is recommended that nominees, and those submitting, be a member of a Western Canadian Music Industry Association but is not required.
The Western Canadian Music Industry Associations include
• Music BC
• Manitoba Music
• SaskMusic
• Alberta Music
• Music Yukon
• Music NWT
*Note, all MIA members will receive a discount for their submissions.
6. How can the payments be made?
- You can pay with Visa or MasterCard. No debit cards.
- You will be prompted to enter the payment information upon completion of your submission.
7. Are people who are not residents in Canada eligible for any of the categories?
- No. The Nominee must have been born in either Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon or NWT and must have lived in one of those Provinces or Territories for six consecutive months in the past year (January 1, 2024 - April 16, 2025).
OR
- The Nominee must have maintained a residence in a Western Canadian Province or Territory for the entire period of January 1, 2024 through April 16, 2025.
- For groups, 50% of the group's members must meet residency requirements. Proof of residency may be required.
8. Can submissions be made to more than one category?
- Yes. Both Artistic and Industry Award categories offer multiple category submissions.
- Please see the appropriate category guidelines for more information.
9. What is meant by release date?
- All nominees (for Artistic Award categories) must have released a minimum of 3 songs to radio, retail, or online between January 1, 2023 and April 16, 2025
- There are no release date requirements to apply to the Festival, however priority will be given to artists who have released new material in the recent 18 months or will release new material in the coming 6 months.
10. If a Release/EP/Multi Media Item hasn’t been previously nominated, can it be nominated again the following year?
Yes, because the eligibility period is longer than one year, an album may be eligible for two consecutive years.
However:
- the album must still meet all release requirements.
- no album will be selected as a final nominee in the same category two years in a row.
- an album cannot be submitted in one genre category one year and in a different category the next
11. What is the definition of a release and a release and a full-length Album?
- To be considered for an award nomination, a minimum 3 newly recorded songs must have been released in the eligibility time-frame.
- Full-length (Recording of the Year only) means that the album is either a minimum of 30 minutes or contains at least six songs.
- At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
- All recordings must fulfill all legal requirements, meaning that the songwriters have been properly credited and mechanical royalties have been paid.
12. Will EPs be eligible for nomination?
Yes, as long as the EP is at least three songs.
13. Can a submitted Album/EP include cover songs?
- An Album and/or EP will be eligible for all categories if at least 50% of the tracks on the recording are previously unreleased songs. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
- A song is defined as material previously released to radio or retail.
14. Are Seasonal/Christmas Albums/EPs eligible?
Yes, as long as they still fit into a particular genre and meet all of the necessary residency and release requirements.
15. Can submissions be made into both the Classical Artist/Ensemble of the Year and Composer of the Year categories?
Yes. See Artistic Awards Categories for more information.
16. If there is a project that has more then one producer or engineer how should it be entered?
- A co-production or co-engineering team may enter as a team or as two separate entries.
- If making one entry, the team will be recognized.
- If making separate entries the other co-producers or co-engineers must be listed and credited where applicable.
17. Is there a minimum number of submissions needed in order for a category to proceed?
- Yes. There must be a minimum of four submissions for a category to proceed in any year.
- If there aren't enough submissions the category is skipped for the year and nominees can resubmit their album for the following year.
18. How are the jurors selected?
- The jurors will be chosen for their impartiality and demonstrated knowledge and expertise in their fields to collectively capture a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds.
- WCMA board and staff members are not allowed to sit as jurors or to influence the jurors' decisions of the juries.
AWARDS SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
1. RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS: ARTISTIC
- All artistic award nominees must be residents of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, the Yukon and/or the Northwest Territories, for at least six months between January 1, 2024 and April 16, 2025 The mandate of the Western Canadian Music Alliance is to support artists and companies who reside in western Canada a majority of the time and as such contribute to healthy and thriving music communities in the region.
- Groups: 50% of group members must meet residency requirements.Proof of residency may be required.
2. RELEASE REQUIREMENTS: ARTISTIC
- The nominee must have a commercial release between January 1, 2023 and April 16, 2025.
A commercial release is defined as:
- A minimum of 3 new songs must be commercially released and not be part of a collection previously nominated within 24 months of the submission deadline.
- At least 50% of the tracks on the recording must be previously unreleased cuts.
- Exceptions to this are Jazz and Classical, and Electronic/Dance and Instrumental categories which must be at least 75% previously unreleased cuts.
- ‘Cut’ is defined as material previously released to radio or retail
- All recordings must properly credit all songwriters.
- All mechanical royalties must be paid.
3. RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS: INDUSTRY
- All industry award nominees must be residents of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, the Yukon and/or the Northwest Territories, for at least six months between January 1, 2024 and April 16, 2025 Companies must be registered companies in Western Canada. The mandate of the Western Canadian Music Alliance is to support artists and music companies who reside in western Canada a majority of the time and contribute to a healthy and thriving music community in their respective region.
- Groups: 50% of group members/company must meet residency requirements.
- Proof of residency may be required.
4. MUSIC INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP
It is recommended that submitting artists and industry members be a member of a western Canadian music industry association, but is not required. If accepted, the submitting artist or industry member will be contacted to ensure current membership with their local music industry association.
The western Canadian music industry associations include the following:
• Music BC
• Manitoba Music
• SaskMusic
• Alberta Music
• Music Yukon
• Music NWT
• Alianait Music
5. NOMINATION & SUBMISSION DEADLINE
• Submissions Open: 10:00 a.m. PST on Wednesday Feburary 19, 2025
• Submissions Close: 11:59 p.m. PST on Wednesday April 16, 2025
Instructions for Submitting an Entry:
• Submission to the awards and festival does not guarantee either nomination or festival acceptance.
• Festival applicants must submit at least three professionally recorded songs for adjudication.
• There are no release date requirements for tracks submitted for festival consideration.
• All submissions are accepted online only. Before uploading any music, you will be instructed to install the Aspera app if you don’t already have it it.
• Payment of the entry fee may only be made by credit card online.
• Online submissions must be completed by 11:59 PM PST on Wednesday April 16, 2025
• One submission must be completed for each category submitting to.
• Read all guidelines and category requirements prior to submission to ensure eligibility.
• Please complete submissions accurately and in full. Submitted information is what jurors consider when adjudicating final completed submissions.
6. NOMINATION AND VOTING PROCEDURES
Each submission will be considered for selection as one of the five nominees in each category. The submissions will be screened upon completion to ensure that each submission is complete and meets all eligibility requirements. Any submissions that are incomplete or ineligible will be disqualified. No refunds will be issued.
A panel of impartial jurors from across Canada will adjudicate all submissions and select the final five nominees in each category. The jury committee reserves the right to categorize a submission at their sole discretion.
In the event that a category is overpopulated, a ‘super jury’ will be convened to conduct the first review.
Electronic voting will be open to all current members of the western Canadian music industry associations and to jurors for final voting to select the winners. Final voting results are equally weighted between western Canadian music industry association members and jurors.
*The Audio Engineer , Jazz, Francophone and Classical, Producer, Children's, Excellence in Visual Design will be selected and voted on solely by jurors and will not be open to voting by music industry association members
7. MULTIPLE SUBMISSIONS OF ONE ALBUM
Each category has its own restrictions and requirements. Make sure to read the Artistic Awards Categories for a complete list of all category specifications.
8. NOMINATION SUBMISSION IN SUCCESSIVE YEARS
Because the eligibility period is longer than one year, an album may be eligible for two consecutive years.
However:
- The album must still meet all release requirements.
- No album will be selected as a final nominee in the same category two years in a row.
- An album cannot be submitted in one genre category one year and in a different category the next.
All details are subject to change.
9. MINIMUM NUMBER OF SUBMISSIONS
There must be a minimum of four (4) submissions for a category to proceed in any year. If four (4) submissions were not received for a particular category, that category is skipped for that year and nominees can resubmit their album the following year.
10. JURY SELECTION
Each award category will be juried by a group of at least ten jurors unless otherwise stated in Guideline #5. The jurors will be chosen for their demonstrated knowledge and expertise in their fields, and so that collectively they capture a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds. No WCMA board or staff member is permitted to vote or influence any adjudication.
The WCMA reserves the right to select juror(s) who are not a resident of one of the five member regions if it is necessary to compile a strong, impartial jury in a given year.
ARTISTIC AWARD CATEGORIES
Please review the below Western Canadian Music Artistic Award Category information. Be advised that any deviation from the requirements below may result in your submission being disqualified. If you have any questions about the below criteria, please contact johnny@breakoutwest.ca.
The Western Canadian Music Awards values diversity, equity and inclusion, and welcome applications from artists from diverse backgrounds
Awards are presented to an Artist, Group, producer, or songwriter depending on the category.
Unless otherwise stated, at least 50% of the submitted recorded tracks must be original material.
If submitting as a group, at least 50% of performing members must meet Canadian residency requirements (see Award and Festival Guidelines for full list of requirements).
All applicants must have an eligible release in order to be considered for nomination (see Award and Festival Guidelines for full list of requirements).
All awards are chosen through an adjudication process.
ARTISTIC CATEGORIES
An release may only be submitted for nomination in ONE of the following categories* :
Eligibility – A minimum of (3) new songs must be commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline and not be part of a collection previously nominated. These recordings can be live, or fully produced. If a group, at least 50% of the members must fulfill the residency requirement.
*Please read the guidelines for each category carefully and submit only if eligible. Non-eligible submissions will be disqualified. Once submitted, no changes can be made.
Afrobeats Artist of the Year
- Definition – This category seeks to recognize artists that utilize unique local expressions from across the African continent, highlighting regional melodic, harmonic and rhythmic musical traditions. The award will celebrate sub-genres including, but not limited to, Afrobeats, Afro-fusion, Afro-pop, Alté, Amapiano, Genge, Gqom, Zouk, Afro-House and Pon Pon. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Blues Artist of the Year
- Definition – This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in traditional or contemporary blues, performed either acoustic or electric. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Children’s Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in music suitable for, and directed to, a young listening audience.. Material must be musical in nature or contain significant original musical content (ex: narratives or dramatic recordings must contain original music). At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Classical Artist 0r Ensemble of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in instrumental soloist(s), (a) chamber ensemble(s) (large or small), and/or instrumental soloists with chamber accompaniment. Submissions may include vocal or choral works. Entries in this category cannot be submitted for Instrumental Artist of the Year. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Country Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in the country genre.Submissions may include alt-country, traditional country, western swing, and/or another recognized country music style. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Electronic & Dance Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in original musical recordings composed significantly with electronic equipment as the essential songwriting tools, and defined by their electronic elements. Tracks prominently featuring recognizable samples, interpolations, or other borrowed elements will be eligible ONLY if the artist/group can provide clearance or written evidence that clearance has been sought. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Instrumental Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose musical work showcases exceptional skill in instrumental music across various genres. Submissions must not exceed 25% of tracks with lyrics or prominent vocals. Entries in this category cannot be submitted for Classical Artist or Ensemble of the Year or Composer of the Year consideration. At least half of the tracks must be comprised of songs that have not been released before. An unpublished song is described as content that the artist has not shared with the public via radio, stores, or any other platforms. Live re-recordings or compilation albums must adhere to the same standards.
Jazz Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes jazz artists, whether instrumentalists or vocalists, whose work exemplifies the highest standards of the genre. Eligible submissions may span a wide range of jazz styles, including (but not limited to) traditional, ragtime, swing, bebop, hard bop, cool, fusion, Latin, Cuban, Afro-Cuban, smooth, avant-garde, free improvisation, third stream, orchestral, and world music-influenced jazz. At least half of the tracks must be comprised of songs that have not been released before. An unpublished song is described as content that the artist has not shared with the public via radio, stores, or any other platforms. Live re-recordings or compilation albums must adhere to the same standards.
Metal & Hard Music Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in metal or hard music. Submissions may include metal, traditional/classic metal, metalcore, thrash metal, death metal, black metal, and any other relevant sub-genres. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Pop Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in pop music. Submissions may include mainstream pop, top 40, CHR, HOT AC, as well as indie-pop and any other pop styles not available on commercial radio. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
R&B Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose musical work showcases exceptional quality within the realms of R&B, soul, funk, or nu jazz. At least 50% of the tracks must be comprised of songs that have not been released before. An unpublished song is described as content that the artist has not shared with the public via radio, stores, or any other platforms. Live re-recordings or compilation albums must adhere to the same standards.
Rap & Hip Hop Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in rap & hip hop music. Eligible submissions must contain lyrics delivered in an MC style and/or music/beats that demonstrate the sound of traditional and/or current hip hop. Tracks prominently featuring recognizable samples, interpolations, or other borrowed elements will be eligible ONLY IF the artist/group can provide clearance or written evidence that clearance has been sought. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Rock Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in rock and/or alternative music. Rock music is typically defined by prominent use of the electric or acoustic guitar, aback beat laid down by a rhythm section of electric bass guitar, drums, and/or keyboard instruments. Styles may encompass soft rock, glam rock, punk rock, progressive rock, popular rock, and/or any other relevant sub-genres. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Roots Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in vocal or instrumental music composed of, or influenced by roots music. Submission may include styles, repertoire, performance practices, and musical structures and that may use new sounds and/or instrumentation. Submissions are often, though not necessarily, composed by the submitting artist. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
Spiritual Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in music with spiritual and/or religious lyrical or thematic influence. Submissions may include traditional, contemporary, country, alternative, pop/rock, electronic, hip-hop, and/or R&B. Submissions will be accepted from choirs, groups, solo performers and instrumental artists. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
**All details are subject to change
SPECIALTY AWARD CATEGORIES
An album may be submitted for nomination in ANY of the following categories* :
*Please make sure the submission fits within the specified guideline requirements.
Once submitted, no changes can be made.
Please note these are crossover categories, so submissions may also be submitted into one other genre category as well as any artist or technical categories if applicable (e.g. Pop, Rap, etc).
BreakOut Artist of the Year
- Definition – This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence across any genre. The evaluation will consider the quality of their recordings, in equal measure with their exceptional year, which is defined by radio chart successes, media exposure, industry recognition, and/or touring achievements. Entries into this category may also be submitted to one of the other artistic categories in the same year. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
- Eligibility – These recordings can be live, or fully produced, and CAN be released outside of the 24 month eligibility period. If a group, at least 50% of the members must fulfill the eligibility criteria.
Classical Composer of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose exceptional skill as a composer of original compositions exemplify outstanding composition of new works completed and released within 24 months prior to the submission deadline and featured on a commercially released recording. It can be submitted by the composer or the artist credited for the composition's appearance. A composition is typically regarded as a singular work, although it may consist of multiple movements that collectively form one piece. Additionally, recordings submitted in this category may also be entered into a genre category during the same year, with the exception of the Instrumental Artist of the Year category. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
- Eligibility – A minimum of 1 composition must be commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline and not be part of a collection previously nominated. These recordings can be live, or fully produced.
Francophone Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in performing in the French language. At least three of the total tracks submitted must contain vocals performed in French. Submissions into this category may also be submitted into one of the other genre categories in the same year.
- Eligibility – A minimum of 3 new songs must be commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline and not be part of a collection previously nominated. These recordings can be live, or fully produced. If a group, at least 50% of the members must fulfill the eligibility criteria.
Global Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose musical creations are inspired by one or more traditional music genres from various regions globally (excluding Canada) or a fusion of diverse cultural musical styles. Entries into this category may also be submitted to one of the other artistic categories in the same year.
- Eligibility – At least three new songs must be commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline and not be included in any collection previously nominated. Commercially released is described as content that the artist has shared with the public via radio, stores, or any other platforms. Live re-recordings or compilation albums must adhere to the same standards.
Indigenous Artist of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence as a Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis artist or group who performs in either a traditional or contemporary musical style. In the case of a duo or group, at least 50% of members must identify as Indigenous, First Nations, Aboriginal and/or Metis. Submissions into this category may also be submitted into one genre category in the same year.
- Eligibility – A minimum of 3 new songs must be commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline and not be part of a collection previously nominated. These recordings can be live, or fully produced. If a group, at least 50% of the members must fulfill the eligibility criteria.
Producer of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music demonstrates excellence in music production and is awarded to a producer or production team. International releases are eligible, provided the producer meets the residency requirement. A Producer must have contributed to a minimum of 50% of tracks on the submitted release.
- Eligibility – The body of works of the producer within the last 12 months from (the submission deadline) will be considered for this award. This may include one or multiple production projects.
Recording of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist whose music showcases excellence in a comprehensive recording, spanning any genre or style. It is presented to an individual or group. Entries into this category may also be submitted to one of the other artistic categories in the same year. At least 50% of the tracks must be previously unreleased songs. An unreleased song is defined as material not previously released to radio, retail or other public consumption. Re-recorded live or compilation releases must meet the same requirements.
- Eligibility – A full length recording with a minimum of six (6) songs or 30 mins commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline and not be included in any collection previously nominated. Commercially released is described as content that the artist has shared with the public via radio, stores, or any other platforms. Live re-recordings or compilation albums must adhere to the same standards.
Songwriter(s) of the Year
- Definition – This award recognizes an artist whose music showcases exceptional skill in the art of songwriting. Whether working solo or in a team, as long as the artist is from Western Canada, they are eligible. Artists can submit their work as a single song or as part of a songwriting team. For a team to be considered, all members must agree to represent the team. A single physical trophy is awarded, regardless of the team's size. Western Canadian songwriters who also write for international artists or releases are also eligible. It's important to note that a song doesn't need lyrics to be considered. Submitted songs must have been released during the eligibility period, which includes singles or videos, even if they were part of an album released before or after the eligibility period. Copyright owners, whether they are publishers or songwriters, must submit one song that best represents the artist's body of work during the eligibility period. Entries into this category may also be submitted to one of the other artistic categories in the same year.
- Eligibility – This is not limited to artists from Western Canada; recordings produced by artists outside of this region are also eligible, as long as the songwriter fulfills the residency and eligibility criteria. The song must be commercially released within 24 months of the submission deadline. Commercially released is described as content that the artist has shared with the public via radio, stores, or any other platforms. Live re-recordings or compilation albums must adhere to the same standards.
Video Director of the Year
- Definition - This award recognizes an artist who exhibits exceptional skill in the distinctive role that a music video plays in contributing to both the commercial success and the public reception of a song. Entries must feature online links to the video. The recipient of the award is the video's director. Artists and videos from outside of western Canada are eligible as long as the director is based in western Canada. Additionally, a directing team is also eligible, provided they meet the residency requirement.
- Eligibility – A full length video release and not previously nominated within 24 months of the submission deadline. The video can be live, or fully produced. If a directing group, at least 50% of the members must fulfill the eligibility criteria.
INDUSTRY AWARD CATEGORIES
Please read and understand all guidelines and category requirements prior to submitting.
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If submitting you must meet residency requirements (see Award and Festival Guidelines for full list of requirements).
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All categories are chosen through an adjudication process and all applicants must meet all residency and release requirements in order to be considered for nomination (see Award and Festival Guidelines for full list of requirements).
Audio Engineering Award
This award recognizes excellence in audio engineering. This can include studio engineering for recordings or live engineering for the stage and is awarded to the engineer. The award is open to, but not necessarily limited to, studio engineers, mixing engineers, digital audio engineers, venue, and/or touring front of house or monitor technicians. The recipient will demonstrate dedication and excellence in the field of audio engineering as demonstrated through their work. Submissions can include audio recordings, testimonials from clients, or both. This may include one or multiple production projects. Work done outside of Western Canada is eligible, as long as the engineer meets the eligibility and residency requirements. Submissions will be juried based on professional activity occurring within one year of the submission deadline.
Community Excellence Award
This award recognises an artist, group, music company, or organization that demonstrates a commitment to community development or philanthropy. This can be through programming or contributions that support a local initiative, a global cause, or to the broader music community. Active engagement with the public should be visible on an ongoing basis. Testimonials, past achievements, and ongoing projects can all be included in this submission. Submissions will be juried based on professional activity occurring within one year of the submission deadline.
Excellence in Visual Design
Visual design makes a specific contribution to the branding and marketing of music. This award recognizes excellence in visual design including album packaging, merchandise, show posters, web and social media design. This award recognises a designer or design firm who has created work of note with one or more artists or project, across various media. This may include one or multiple production projects. Work done outside of western Canada is eligible, provided the designer meets the eligibility and residency requirements. Submissions will be juried based on professional activity occurring within one year of the submission deadline.
Impact in Artist Development
This award recognizes music companies or individuals from western Canada who have had a significant impact on artist(s) careers within the eligibility period. The award is open to but not limited to artist managers, labels, agents, and publishers, including individuals, teams, or companies. The recipient will have demonstrated particular accomplishments in advancing the career of an artist or roster of artists. Collaborations with artists from outside of western Canada are eligible, as long as the nominee meets the eligibility and residency requirements. Submissions will be juried based on professional activity occurring within one year of the submission deadline.
Impact in Live Music
This award recognizes music companies or individuals who have had a significant impact on the live music community in western Canada within the eligibility period. This award is open to, but not necessarily limited to, agents, promoters, presenters, buyers, venues and/or festivals. The recipient will have demonstrated accomplishments in live music such as innovative programming, audience development, or programming for a specific community need. Consideration will be given to the promotion of western Canadian artists, the historical and cultural value of the applicant institution to the industry and the community, relationships between the applicant and artists, and overall public participation. Nominees must meet the eligibility and residency requirements. Venues and festivals must be located in western Canada in order to meet eligibility. Submissions will be juried based on professional activity occurring within one year of the submission deadline.
Impact in Music Marketing
This award recognizes innovation, creative thinking, and hard work in the field of marketing in the music industry in western Canada. The award is open to, but not necessarily limited to, individuals and companies working in public relations, marketing, radio tracking, music distribution, artist management, live promotion, app development, and technology. The recipient will demonstrate success through dedication to the western Canadian music industry and demonstrating new ways of doing business. Submissions will be juried based on professional activity occurring within one year of the submission deadline.