Nordic Music Central is partnering with the Unsigned Only Music Awards to attract more Nordic region applicants to the 2026 Competition.
The Unsigned Only Music Awards is an online Music Awards event geared toward independent and unsigned artists internationally.
The Awards’ mission is to recognise and honour the exceptional talent of independent artists while encouraging creativity, innovation, and the pursuit of musical excellence.
The focus is exclusively on unsigned artists, providing a level playing field for all artists who have not secured a major label record deal. The Awards celebrate the artistry and passion of up-and-coming artists who define the future of music.
Winners are selected by a panel of judges comprised of accomplished musicians, producers, record label executives, journalists, and other professionals with extensive experience and knowledge in their respective fields.
How does it grab you for your music to be heard by the likes of Aimee Mann, Conor Oberst and The Cure’s Robert Smith, all of whom are current judges?
Or LeAnn Rimes, Linda Perry (4 Non Blondes etc) and The Killers, who have been before?
Well, here’s your opportunity. Don’t let it pass you by.
Each category (there are 24 altogether and more may be added this year) has one winner, such as Best Rock Artist, Best Country Artist, Best Latin Artist, etc.
Additionally, one artist is selected as Artist of The Year and is awarded a US$20,000 cash prize. All winners receive a custom, abstract sculpture/award designed by Society Awards, which is known for designing and manufacturing high-profile entertainment awards, such as the Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and more.
Receiving a prestigious award such as this is a milestone for an artist, reflecting their dedication, creativity, and hard work and will empower and motivate them to continue evolving and striving for excellence.
And even if you don’t win the main prize you could be listed as a runner-up or semifinalist on a website that attracts attention from across the USA and much further afield.
(Incidentally, in 2025 a Nordic region artist won in the Best Male Vocalist category while there were six Nordic runners up across individual categories).
Let’s see if we can do even better this year!
Of course it isn’t a charity, you have to pay to enter but the fees are pretty low in my estimation, varying from $25 to $35 per entry depending on when you submit it.
And you need to move quickly to benefit from the $25 Early Bird fee which expires on 16 December!
So what are you waiting for! Go to UMOA’s website straight away and get cracking. The main website is https://www.unsignedonly.com/index.php and the page for entries is https://www.unsignedonly.com/enter
There will be further updates to follow.
Please note. Nordic Music Central is not affiliated in any way to Unsigned Only Music Awards and this and future posts act only to bring attention to the Awards. Applicants must deal directly with the UOMA organisation at all times.
One Response
Great initiative!