EMPORIA, Kan. — Independent musicians from across the Midwest will be recognized Sunday, Nov. 8, during the inaugural Heartland Music Awards at the Granada Theatre in Emporia, Kansas.
The free ceremony begins at 7 p.m. and will honor singers, songwriters, instrumentalists and others who contribute to the region’s music scene.
Kansas singer-songwriter Savanna Chestnut created the awards to recognize musicians who have built successful careers outside major music centers like Nashville.
“We might not be household names, but we’ve had like big, long, successful careers and built a community,” Chestnut said during an interview with KBEAR 92.3.
The awards feature 18 categories, including male and female vocalist, songwriter, band and individual instrumentalists. Special honors will recognize longtime performers, dedicated fans and others who support regional musicians.
Unlike traditional music awards programs, nominations and winners are determined by fellow musicians rather than public voting. Final voting takes place the day of the ceremony, with winners announced that evening.
The nominee list includes regional performers such as Logan Mize, Anthony Segovia, Aubrey Dale, Drew Phillips Band, Todd Keiffer and DJ Bridwell.
Chestnut said the event will also include award presentations, a cowboy poetry reading and audience participation activities.
“I just hope that it keeps growing,” Chestnut said, adding that she hopes more musicians become involved in future years.
The Heartland Music Awards primarily serve musicians connected to Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Missouri.
Admission is free, although organizers ask attendees to register by emailing [email protected].
More information and the published list of nominees are available at heartlandmusicawards.com.
