IBMA Industry & Momentum Awards Nominees Unveiled

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The nominees have been revealed for the 2026 IBMA Industry & Momentum Awards, set to take place on Oct. 22 at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

The Industry Awards recognize outstanding work in non-performing industry categories and honor the individuals who help advance bluegrass music and support its artists. The 2026 IBMA Industry Award nominees for Writer of the Year include Paul Burch, John Curtis Goad, Derek Halsey, Garret K. Woodward, and Gary Reid. The Songwriter of the Year nominees are Mark “Brink” Brinkman, Chris Jones, Rick Lang and Tim Stafford.

The IBMA Momentum Awards recognize artists and industry professionals in the early stages of their bluegrass music careers. In addition to honoring emerging talent, the awards also include recognition for a mentor whose guidance has had a significant and positive impact on upcoming artists and industry professionals. The Momentum Awards ceremony will take place on Oct. 21 at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

The 2026 IBMA Momentum Award nominees for Band Of The Year include The Creekers, ShadowGrass, Remedy Tree,  The Cody Sisters and Under the Rocks. Vocalist of the Year nominees include Adam Miller, Lydia Hamby, Morgan Brake, Akulina Shamanov, and Ellie Hakanson. A full list of this year’s nominees can be found here.

Attendance at both events is included with registration for the IBMA Business Conference, which also provides access to a full lineup of programming at the Chattanooga Convention Center. Registration is now open.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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