The Blue Water Music Awards (B.W.M.A.) was founded 10 years ago when friends Tim Hunter and Dave Whitt were discussing the Oscars and decided that they’d be more interested in an awards show that featured their talented friends.
Since that time, Hunter has been organizing the yearly awards show and making sure that local musicians get the recognition they deserve.
After a couple year break, the Blue Water Music Awards has opened up voting and is preparing to host a live event at Lynch’s Irish Tavern on February 23, 2022 at 7 PM.
Voting takes place online, and categories include Rookie of the Year, Best Cover Band, Best Import, and Best Venue along with categories like Best Female, Best Hip Hop, and Best Album. New this year is a category for Best Music Video.
The Blue Water Music Awards also awards a Life Time Achievement Award, a Paul Time Award for the best musician in the area, and the Corey J. Kuhr Award for the best fan.
The Corey J. Kuhr award has gone through several name changes over the years. It started as the Best Roadie and then became Best Fan before being named after Cory Joseph Kuhr.
Hunter is looking forward to giving away this award at the event. “He was one of my good friends, and it’s an award that means a lot to me personally,” he said.
Nominees include local bands and artists like Dusk til Dawn, Drew Jacobs, Alex Shier, and The Barones and out-of-town acts like Macomb County’s Acoustic Ash and Ontario’s Jacob Barber.
Hunter believes that the Blue Water Music Awards bring musicians together and provide a platform for new artists. He has seen artists start by playing an open mic at a local restaurant and go on to win multiple awards after being supported and encouraged by more experienced musicians.
The Blue Water Music Awards ceremony is free to attend, and you can vote for your favorites from now until February 22nd <HERE>.
Learn more on their Facebook page <HERE>.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
