The Black Music Association & Academy of America (BMA) proudly presents the first ever Atlanta Black Music Awards to honor past, present and up-and-coming artists at Center Stage Theater on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013. The BMAs promise to be a night filled with many memorable moments as organizers set out to to celebrate, acknowledge, respect, and remember the musical influences of black entertainers. Many of today’s favorite performers are natives or live in the Atlanta area and have lent their talents to sharing their talents in every genre, globally.
This year’s nominees will be selected in the following categories: Entertainer of the Year,BMA Young Star Award, Artist on the Verge of Breaking, Best Male Soul Artist, Best FemaleSoul Artist, Best Male R&B Artist, Best Female R&B Artist, Best Male Pop/Alternate Music Artist, Best Female Pop/Alternate Music, Best Male Blues Artist, Best Female Blues Artist, Best Blues Band, Best Male Jazz Artist, Best Female Jazz Artist, Best Jazz Band, TopInternational Artist, Best Pop/Alternate Band, Best Male Gospel Artist, Best Female GospelArtist, Top Gospel Choir, Best Rap/Hip Hop Male Artist, Best Rap/Hip Hop Group, and thelist goes on.
“Atlanta is a city filled with stars. This is certain to be our biggest event thus far,” says founder Dr. Rick Warren. “We are delighted to bring our awards gala to the City of Atlanta.”
Here, Shanta Hereford, Atlanta chapter president of the Black Music Association, shares what’s in store.
What sets BMA apart from other recognition events?
Our event was created to commemorate the contributions of music artists in every genre of black music on a local level. Majority of others shows are either national or genre specific.
Why do you feel this event is needed?
I believe it’s needed because it brings the entire black music community together especially when a lot of times there are such divides in the industry. This will be more than just a night of entertainment and celebration, this will also be a music lesson on Atlanta’s music history.
What can attendees expect?
Attendees can expect a high energy show full of surprises. Many of Atlanta’s top entertainers and sociallites have already confirmed their attendance plus it’s going to be hosted by BET/Def Jam comedian “Pierre”.
Will it be televised?
Since this will be our very first production, we have decided not to broadcast the show live. However, it will be filmed and edited for a later broadcast and DVD.
Will fans be allowed to participate in any part of the voting process?
Yes, voting is open to everyone on our site at https://BMAATL.com. Voters can go there and vote for all their favorite Atlanta artists and the winners will be announced at our award show on Sun, Dec 1 at Center Stage Theatre.
The BMA has hosted the awards gala in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Sacramento, Houston, Chicago, and Detroit. Past recipients and honorees include Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Jacksons, and Earth, Wind & Fire to name a few. This year’s honorees include Atlanta icons “The Tams” and Black Music Hall of Fame recipient “Regina Belle.” BET/Def Jam comedian “Pierre” will be the evening’s host and Ms. Nickee of Diva Day International will host the red carpet. Special guest performances by Young Stars Award Nominee of YMCMB Torion, soul singer and BMA nominee Heston, and Top International Artist Nominee “No Phear” along with many other surprise guests.
