KMC Music Awards
What is a KMC Music Award?
Bringing attention to professional independent musicians who have developed themselves and their talents to a level that deserves recognition and congratulation, KMC and related partners will be presenting them with a "KMC Music Award." These awards are not only intended to celebrate and promote great music and musicians, but also to promote diversity and creativity in the Japanese music scene.
Who is eligible?
With the support of affiliated organizations, KMC Music Awards will be presented to KMC artists who show or have shown that they are real "musicians," not just playing music, but living it with a passion. Eligible musicians for this year must have performed at, or participated in any KMC event between May 2012 - May 2013. Recipients are not restricted by musical genres, background or native culture.
Is there a ceremony?
The KMC 2013 Music Awards ceremony will be held on September 20th at Hard Rock Cafe Osaka during the KMC Opening Party.
Award categories
Building Bridges Awards (2)
These awards are given to artists who have shown a true interest in developing international relationships through music and live performances. These artists use their music and musical ability to foster cultural understanding while simultaneously increasing their fan bases.
(selected by the KMC Executive Board)
The 2012 finalists were:
Dale Campbell / Maiko Ito / Susumu Muraji / Semi-on / La Nota / Riot Dance Party
The winners were Dale Campbell & Riot Dance Party
Hiram Bullock Music Award
In memory of Osaka born guitarist, Hiram Bullock (9/11/1955 - 7/25/2008), this award is given to the artist who, like Hiram, shows dedication to their musical career and strives to work with musicians regardless of musical genres. They also show encouragement and support for new activities and opportunities created by others.
(selected by the family of Hiram Bullock)
The 2012 nominees were:
Steve Hanuman / Vivian Hernaez / Davina Robinson
The winner was Davina Robinson.
Azul Jazz / Fusion Award
With jazz and funk having a special place in Japanese musical culture, this award is presented to the KMC jazz, funk or fusion artist that has not only grown as a musician, but also has used their talent and music to reach across cultural barriers to create lasting relationships with friends and fans alike.
(selected by Azul & the KMC Executive Board)
The 2012 finalists were:
Larry Marshall / Phillip Strange / Alicia Saldenha / Steve Hanuman / Vivian Hernaez
The winner was Larry Marshall
Songwriter of the Year Award
This award is given to an artist who writes songs that stimulate and inspire listeners. Their writing style demonstrates an understanding of harmonies, melodies, and creativity that entertains, satisfies and encourages their fans.
(selected by the KMC Executive Board)
The 2012 finalists were:
Jett Edwards / Rhyming Gaijin / Prema Yin & Mon 9
The winner was Rhymimg Gaijin.
Best Band Award
This award is presented to a band that despite barriers like "pay to play," expensive rehearsal studio time and a "real job," among others, has continued performing regularly and shows no sign of stopping. They are devoted to their music and to the diversity of the music scene in Japan.
(selected by the KMC Executive Board)
The 2012 finalists were:
Semi-on / Riot Dance Party / Davina Robinson
The winner was Semi-on.
Performer of the Year Award
This award is presented to a band or artist that knows how to entertain the audience. They have a large fan base and have shown that they know how to develop, keep and satisfy their fans with recorded music, regular communication and great live performances that leave audiences wanting more.
(selected by the general public from June 30 - July 20)
The 2012 winner was Nature Airliner.