OffBeat’s Best of The Beat Awards was created to honor local musicians for their contributions to New Orleans and Louisiana music and culture. The Best of The Beat Awards also honors the “behind the scenes” members of the music community: the clubs, businesses, festivals, recording studios and the gamut of music industry businesses who contribute to keeping New Orleans’ and Louisiana’s music scene vital, thriving and growing.

The Best of The Beat Awards is a project of the OffBeat Music and Cultural Arts Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to educate and enlighten the public on local music and culture, and be a means to help support the music and cultural arts community through education and economic opportunities.

OMCAF’s mission statement is to:

1. Educate the public about local and regional music and cultural arts.
2. Give professional working opportunities to the music and cultural arts community. This would be accomplished via researching, gathering, compiling, organizing, disseminating, writing, communicating and promoting information on the artistic and business aspects of music and entertainment industries and associated cultural, educational and business activities and achievements.

The 2023 Award Recipients:

Artist of the Year
Jon Batiste

Album of the Year
Jon Batiste: World Music Radio

Best Emerging Artist
Victor Campbell

Song of the Year
“Butterfly” by Jon Batiste

Best Blues Artist
Samantha Fish

Best Blues Album
Smanatha Fish & Jesse Dayton: Death Wish Blues

Best R&B / Funk Artist
Jon Batiste

Best R&B / Funk Album
Jon Batiste: World Music Radio

Best Rock Artist
The Revivalists

Best Rock Album
The Revivalists: Pour it out into the Night

Best Roots Rock / Americana Artist
Lucinda Williams

Best Roots Rock / American Album
Lucinda Williams: Stores from a Rock N Roll Heart

Best Country / Folk / Singer-Songwriter Artist
Alex McMurray

Best Country / Folk / Singer-Songwriter Album
Paul Sanchez: Between Friends… And Me

Best Rap / Hip-Hop / Bounce Artist
Flagboy Giz

Best Rap / Hip-Hop / Bounce Album
Flagboy Giz: I Got Indian in my Family

Best Traditional Jazz Artist
Preservation Hall Jazz Band

Best Traditional Jazz Album
Tuba Skinny: Hot Town

Best Contemporary Jazz Artist
Terence Blanchard

Best Contemporary Jazz Album
Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra: Uptown on Mardi Gras Day

Best Brass Band
The Soul Rebels

Best Brass Band Album
The New Orleans Nightcrawlers: Too Much To Hold

Best Cajun Artist
Lost Bayou Ramblers

Best Cajun Album
Lost Bayou Ramblers and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra: Lost Bayou Ramblers and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (Live)

Best Zydeco Artist
Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. & the Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band

Best Zydeco Album
Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. & the Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band: New Beginnings…

Best Cover Band
Bag of Donuts

Allen Toussaint Award Songwriter of the Year
Jon Batiste

Best Female Vocalist
Erica Falls

Best Male Vocalist
John Boutte

Best Bass Player
George Porter, Jr.

Best Guitarist
Samantha Fish

Best Drummer
Russell Batiste, Jr.

Best Clarinetist
Doreen Ketchens

Best Saxophonist
Donald Harrison, Jr.

Best Trombonist
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

Best Trumpeter
Terence Blanchard

Best Tuba / Sousaphonist
Kirk Joseph

Best Piano / Keyboards
Ivan Neville

Best Accordionist
Dwayne Dopsie

Best Violin / Fiddle Player
Louis Michot

Best DJ
Mannie Fresh

Best Other Instrument
Jason Marsalis (vibes)

Best Music Video
Deathwish by Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton

Lifetime Achievement in Music
David R. Batiste, Sr.

Lifetime Achievement in Music Education
Ricky Sebastian

Lifetime Achievement in Music Business
Don Marshall

Heatbeat Award
Fred Johnson, Jr.

All Categories and Years

Lifetime Achievement in Music
(category starts in 1997)

1997: Aaron Neville

1998: Tommy Ridgley

1999: Dr. John

2000: Earl King

2001: Pete Fountain

2002: Art Neville

2003: Eddie Bo

2004: Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown

2005: Allen Toussaint / Irma Thomas

2006: Fats Domino

2007: Wardell Quezergue

2008: Theodore Emile “Bo” Dollis / Harold Battiste, Jr.

2009: Deacon John Moore

2010: Dave Bartholomew

2011: George Porter, Jr.

2012: Al “Carnival Time” Johnson, Clarence “Frogman” Henry, Jean Knight, Frankie Ford, Ernie Vincent, Robert Parker, The Dixie Cups

2013: Cyril Neville

2014: Ellis Marsalis

2015: The Radiators

2016: Johnny Vidacovich

2017: Monk Boudreaux

2018: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

2019: Charlie Gabriel

2020: Dirty Dozen Brass Band

2021-2022: Little Freddie King

2023: David R. Batiste, Sr.

 

Lifetime Achievement in Music Education

(category starts in 2000)

2000: Kidd Jordan

2001: Ellis Marsalis

2002: Clyde Kerr, Jr.

2003: Alvin Batiste

2004: Mercedes Tucker Stamps

2005: Wanda Rouzan

2006: Harold Battiste

2007: Wilbert Rawlins, Jr.

2008: Donald Harrison / Cherice Harrison-Nelson

2009: Barry Ancelet

2010: Derrick Tabb (Roots of Music)

2011: John Rankin

2012: Jonathan Bloom

2013: Jason Patterson

2014: Roger Dickerson

2015: Germaine Bazzle

2016: Dr. Bruce Raeburn

2017: Michael Pellera

2018: John Snyder

2019: Steve Masakowski

2020: Sanford Hinderlie

2021-2022: Tony Dagradi

2023: Ricky Sebastian

 

Lifetime Achievement in Music Business

(category starts in 1999)

1999: Cosimo Matassa

2000: Floyd Soileau

2001: Eddie Schuler

2002: Stan Lewis

2003: Jim Russell

2004: Larry McKinley

2005: George and Nina Buck

2006: Warren Hildebrand

2007: Roy Shaw

2008: Maggie Warwick

2009: Quint Davis

2010: Johnny Palazzotto

2011: Scott Billington

2012: Jimmy Anselmo

2013: Sherman Bernard

2014: Gary Edwards

2015: Roland and Mary Von Kurnatowski

2016: Sonny Schneidau

2017: Steve and Cézanne Nails

2018: Doris Bastiansen of the Kerry Irish Pub

2019: Shirani Rea

2020: Mark Bingham

2021-2022: Mark Samuels

2023: Don Marshall

 

Heartbeat Award

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Harold Battiste, Jr.

2002: Bethany & Johann Bultman

2003: Sylvester Frances

2004: Albinas Prizgintas

2005: Uncle Lionel

2006: The Musicians’ Hurricane Relief Agencies

2007: Cynthia Simien

2008: Antoinette K-Doe

2009: Threadhead Records

2010: “Treme”

2011: Mary Howell

2012: Big Chief Howard Miller

2013: Dr. Steven Price

2014: Pat Jolly

2015: Catherine Lasperches

 

(category renamed)

 

Positive Vibrations HeartBeat Award (Culture Bearer)

2016: Darryl Young “Dancing Man 504”

2017: Anders Osborne

2018: Herreast Harrison

2019: Clarence Dalcour

2020: Cherice Harrison-Nelson

 

Positive Vibrations HeartBeat Award (Musician)

2016: Detroit Brooks

2017: Clarence Johnson, III

2018: Dr. Michael White

2019: Margie Perez

2020: Jean Montès

 

Heartbeat Award

(category restarted in 2021-2022)

2021-2022: Benny Jones, Sr.

2023: Fred Joseph Johnson, Jr.

 

Artist of the Year

1995: Better Than Ezra

1996: Cowboy Mouth

1997: Astral Project

1998: The Radiators

1999: Kermit Ruffins

2000: Galactic

2001: Kermit Ruffins

2002: Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen

2003: Deacon John

2004: the subdudes

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2007: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2008: Irma Thomas

2009: Allen Toussaint

2010: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2011: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2012: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2013: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2014: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2015: Jon Cleary

2016: The Revivalists

2017: Tank and the Bangas

2018: Samantha Fish

2019: The Soul Rebels

2020: Tank and the Bangas

2021-2022: Chapel Hart

2023: Jon Batiste

 

Album of the Year

1995: Better Than Ezra: Deluxe

1996: The Iguanas: Superball

1997: Doc Cheatham & Nicholas Payton: Doc Cheatham & Nicholas Payton

1998: Dr. John: Anutha Zone

1999: Continental Drifters: Vermillion

2000: Dr. John: Duke Elegant

2001: Dr. John: Creole Moon

2002: Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen: Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen

2003: Deacon John: Deacon John’s Jump Blues

2004: Dr. John: N’Awlinz: Dis, Dat or D’Udda

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Allen Toussaint & Elvis Costello: The River in Reverse

2007: Galactic: From the Corner to the Block

2008: Dr. John: City That Care Forgot

2009: Allen Toussaint: The Bright Mississippi

2010: Trombone Shorty: Backatown

2011: Trombone Shorty: For True

2012: Dr. John: Locked Down

2013: Trombone Shorty: Say That to Say This

2014: Rebirth Brass Band: Move Your Body

2015: Galactic: Into the Deep (Provogue)

2016: Allen Toussaint: American Tunes (Nonesuch)

2017: Trombone Shorty: Parking Lot Symphony (Blue Note)

2018: Walter “Wolfman” Washington: My Future is My Past (Anti-)

2019: The Soul Rebels: Poetry in Motion (Mack Avenue)

2020: PJ Morton: Gospel According to PJ Morton (Tyscot)

2021-2022: Jon Batiste: We Are (Verve)

2023: Jon Batiste: World Music Radio (Verve Records / Interscope Records)

 

Song of the Year

1995: Better Than Ezra: “Good”

1996: Johnny Sansone: “Crescent City Moon”

1997: Lenny McDaniel: “Tired Angels”

1998: Mac Rebennack: “Sweet Home New Orleans”

1999: Tab Benoit: “These Blues are all Mine”

2000: Cyril Neville & Allen Toussaint: “New Orleans Cookin’”

2001: Kermit Ruffins: “Drop me Off in New Orleans”

2002: Kermit Ruffins: “When I Die (You Better Second Line)”

2003: Iguanas: “Sugar Cane”

2004: Aaron, Art, Charles, Cyril & Ivan Neville, Milton Davis: “Brothers”

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2008: (no award given)

2009: John Boutte and Paul Sanchez: “Hey God”

2010: John Boutte: “Treme Song”

2011: Taylor Guarisco & Tiffany Lamson (The Givers): “Up Up Up”

2012: Anders Osborne: “Louisiana Gold”

2013: Troy Andrews, Michael Bgallard, Peter Murano, Alonzo “Novel” Stevenson, Taura Stinson: “Fire and Brimstone”

2014: Alynda Lee Segarra (Hurray for the Riff Raff): “The Body Electric”

2015: Jon Cleary and Johnny “Snakehips” Jonhson: “Boneyard”

2016: David Shaw and Zack Feinberg of the Revivalists “Wish I Knew You”

2017: “Allen Toussaint” by Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield & Cyril Neville

2018: “One More Trip Around the Sun” by Paul Sanchez and John Rankin

2019: “Slide Back” written by Marcus Hubbard

2020: “Self Care” by Tank and the Bangas

2021-2022: “You Can Have Him Jolene” by Chapel Hart (written by Danica Hart, Devynn Hart, Trea Swindle)

2023: “Butterfly” by Jon Batiste

 

Songwriter of the Year

(category starts in 2003)

2003: Anders Osborne

2004: Anders Osborne

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2008: (no award given)

2009: Paul Sanchez

2010: Dr. John

2011: Tab Benoit

2012: Anders Osborne

2013: Anders Osborne

2014: Paul Sanchez

2015: Jon Cleary

2016: David Shaw

Allen Toussaint Award Songwriter of the Year

2017: Paul Sanchez

2018: Jon Cleary

2019: PJ Morton

2020: PJ Morton

2021-2022: Jon Batiste

2023: Jon Batiste

 

Best Blues Band or Performer

1995: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

1996: Jumpin’ Johnny

1997: Corey Harris

1998: John Mooney

1999: Tab Benoit

2000: Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters

2001: Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown

2002: Tab Benoit

2003: Tab Benoit

2004: Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters

2007: Mem Shannon & the Membership

2008: Irma Thomas

2009: Tab Benoit

2010: Dr. John

2011: Tab Benoit

2012: Tab Benoit

2013: Cyril Neville

2014: Tab Benoit

2015: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

2016: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

2017: Samantha Fish

2018: Samantha Fish

2019: Samantha Fish

(category renamed)

Best Blues, R&B or Funk Artist

2020: Tank and the Bangas

2021-2022: Tank and the Bangas

(category renamed)

Best Blues Band or Performer

2023: Samantha Fish

 

Best Blues Album

1995: Mem Shannon: A Cab Driver’s Blues

1996: Jumpin’ Johnny: Crescent City Moon

1997: Corey Harris: Fish Ain’t Bitin’

1998: Coco Robicheaux: Louisiana Medicine Man

1999: Tab Benoit: These Blues are all Mine

2000: Walter “Wolfman” Washington: On the Prowl

2001: Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown: Back to Bogalusa

2002: Tab Benoit: Wetlands

2003: Sonny Landreth: The Road We’re On

2004: Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown: Timeless

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Tab Benoit: Brother to the Blues

2007: Andy J. Forest: Real Stories of Love, Labor and Other Man-Made Catastrophes

2008: Irma Thomas: Simply Grand

2009: Honey Island Swamp Band: Wishing Well

2010: Dr. John: Tribal

2011: Tab Benoit: Medicine

2012: Sonny Landreth: Elemental Journey

2013: Cyril Neville: Magic Honey

2014: Bobby Rush with Blinddog Smokin’: Decisions

2015: Sonny Landreth: Bound by the Blues (Provogue)

2016: Bobby Rush: Porcupine Meat (Rounder)

2017: Samantha Fish: Belle of the West (Ruf Records)

2018: Walter “Wolfman” Washington: My Future is My Past (Anti-)

2019: Samantha Fish: Kill or Be Kind (Rounder)

(category renamed)

Best Blues, R&B or Funk Album

2020: Tank and the Bangas: Friend Goals (EP) (Verve Forecast)

2021-2022: Jon Batiste: We Are (Verve)

(category renamed)

Best Blues Album

2023: Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton: Death Wish Blues (Rounder)

 

Category renamed see Best Blues, R&B or Funk Artist

 

Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer

(category starts in 2000, see R&B/Soul and Funk)

2000: Galactic

2001: Dr. John

2002: Papa Grows Funk

2003: Deacon John

2004: Papa Grows Funk

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk

2007: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave.

2008: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave.

2009: Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk

2010: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave.

2011: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave.

2012: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave.

2013: Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave.

2014: Dumpstaphunk

2015: George Porter Jr.

2016: Dumpstaphunk

2017: Tank and the Bangas

2018: Big Sam’s Funky Nation

2019: Galactic

(category returned)

Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer

2023: Jon Batiste

 

Category renamed see Best Blues, R&B or Funk Artist Album

Best R&B/Funk Album

(category starts in 2000, see R&B/Soul and Funk)

2000: Dr. John: Duke Elegant

2001: Dr. John: Creole Moon

2002: Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen: Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen

2003: Fats Domino: Live at the Jazz & Heritage Festival

2004: Dr. John: N’Awlinz: Dis, Dat or D’udda

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Allen Toussaint & Elvis Costello: The River in Reverse

2007: Various Artists: Goin’ Home: A Tribute to Fats Domino

2008: Dr. John: City That Care Forgot

2009: Joe Krown, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Russell Batiste, Jr.: Live at the Maple Leaf

2010: Trombone Shorty: Backatown

2011: Trombone Shorty: For True

2012: Galactic: Carnivale Electricos

2013: Trombone Shorty: Say That to Say This

2014: Dr. John: Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit of Satch

2015: George Porter Jr.: It’s Time to Funk (Independent)

2016: Aaron Neville: Apache (Tell It Records)

2017: Trombone Shorty: Parking Lot Symphony (Blue Note)

2018: Big Sam’s Funky Nation: Songs in the Key of Funk, Volume 1 (Independent)

2019: Tank and the Bangas: Green Balloon (Verve Forecast)

(category returned)

Best R&B / Funk Album

2023: Jon Batiste: World Music Radio (Verve Records / Interscope Records)

 

Best Rock Band or Performer

1995: Cowboy Mouth

1996: Cowboy Mouth

1997: Royal Fingerbowl

1998: Tiny Town

1999: Mulebone

2000: Continental Drifters

2001: Cowboy Mouth

2002: Cowboy Mouth

2003: Better Than Ezra

2004: Theresa Andersson

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Better Than Ezra

2007: Morning 40 Federation

2008: Theresa Andersson

2009: Theresa Andersson

2010: Happy Talk Band

2011: Givers

2012: The Revivalists

2013: Anders Osborne

2014: Big Sam’s Funky Nation

2015: The Revivalists

2016: The Revivalists

2017: The Revivalists

2018: The Revivalists

2019: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

(category renamed)

Best Rock/Roots Rock Artist

2020: The Revivalists

2021-2022: Sweet Crude

(category returned)

Best Rock Band or Performer

2023: The Revivalists

 

Best Rock Album

1995: Better Than Ezra: Deluxe

1996: Cowboy Mouth: Are You With Me?

1997: Royal Fingerbowl: Happy Birthday, Sabo!

1998: Cowboy Mouth: Mercyland

1999: Mulebone: 5 Shakes, 7 Spirits

2000: Cowboy Mouth: Easy

2001: Better Than Ezra: Closer

2002: Dash: Sonic Boom

2003: Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes: Bandicoot

2004: Theresa Andersson: Shine

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Cowboy Mouth: Voodoo Shoppe

2007: Quintron and Miss Pussycat: Jamskate

2008: Theresa Andersson: Hummingbird, Go!

2009: Better Than Ezra: Paper Empire

2010: Rotary Downs: Cracked Maps & Blue Reports

2011: Givers: In Light

2012: The Revivalists: City of Sound

2013: Anders Osborne: Peace

2014: Big Sam’s Funky Nation: Evolution

2015: The Revivalists: Men Amongst Mountains (Wind-up)

2016: Anders Osborne: Flower Box (Back on Dumaine)

2017: Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes: sketch (Full Frontal Records)

2018: The Revivalists: Take Good Care (Loma Vista)

2019: Anders Osborne: Buddha and the Blues (Back on Dumaine)

(category renamed)

Best Rock/Roots Rock Artist Album

2020: The Revivalists: Made in Muscle Shoals (Loma Vista)

2021-2022: Zita: Hardly Alive (Independent)

(category returned)

Best Rock Album

2023: The Revivalists: Pour it out into the Night (Concord)

 

Best Roots Rock Band or Performer

1995: Anders Osborne

1996: Anders Osborne

1997-2000: (see Best Country/Folk category)

2001: The Radiators

2002: The Radiators

2003: The Iguanas

2004: the subdudes

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2009: (see Best Country/Folk/Roots Rock category)

2010: Honey Island Swamp Band

2011: Anders Osborne

2012: Dr. John

2013: Honey Island Swamp Band

2014: Honey Island Swamp Band

2015: Papa Mali

2016: Honey Island Swamp Band

2017: Honey Island Swamp Band

2018: Paul Sanchez

2019: Paul Sanchez

(category renamed)

Best Roots Rock / Americana Artist

2023: Lucinda Williams

 

Category renamed see Best Rock/Roots Rock Artist

Best Roots Rock Album

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Anders Osborne: Ash Wednesday Blues

2002: Anders Osborne & Monk Boudreaux: Bury the Hatchet

2003: The Iguanas: Plastic Silver 9 Volt Heart

2004: the subdudes: Miracle Mule

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2009: (see Best Country/Folk/Roots Rock category)

2010: Anders Osborne: American Patchwork

2011: Creole String Beans: Shrimp Boots and Vintage Suits

2012: Dr. John: Locked Down

2013: Honey Island Swamp Band: Cane Sugar

2014: The Iguanas: Juarez

2015: Papa Mali: Music Is Love (429 Records)

2016: Honey Island Swamp Band: Demolition Day (Ruf Records)

2017: Sam Price & the True Believers: Sam Price and the True Believers (Independent)

2018: Paul Sanchez: One More Trip Around the Sun (Independent)

2019: Paul Sanchez: I’m a song, I’m a story, I’m a ghost (Independent)

Category renamed see Best Rock/Roots Rock Artist Album

(category renamed)

Best Roots Rock / Americana Album

2023: Lucinda Williams: Stores from a Rock N Roll Heart (Highway 20 Records)

 

Best Rap/Hip-Hop Band or Performer

1995: Mystikal

1996: Mystikal

1997: Master P

1998: Master P

1999: Coolbone

2000: Mystikal

2001: Mystikal

2002: Mystikal

2003: Big Tymers

2004: Mystikal

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Lil Wayne

2007: Truth Universal

2008: Lil Wayne

2009: Juvenile

2010: Big Freedia

2011: Big Freedia

2012: Dee-1

2013: Jealous Monk

2014: Derrick Freeman

2015: Dee-1

2016: 5th Ward Weebie

2017: Dee-1

2018: Alfred Banks

2019: Pell

2020: Big Freedia

2021-2022: Big Freedia

2023: Flagboy Giz

 

Best Rap/Hip-Hop Album/Mixtape

1995: Mystikal: The Mind of Mystikal

1996: Mystikal: Mystikal

1997: Master P: Ghetto D

1998: Master P: MP Da Last Don

1999: Juvenile: 400 Degreez

2000: Mytikal: Let’s Get Ready

2001: Juvenile: Project English

2002: Big Tymers: Hood Rich

2003: Big Tymers: Big Money Heavyweight

2004: Various Artists: The Humid Sounds of Media Darling Records

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2007: (no award given)

2008: Lil Wayne: The Carter III

2009: Lil Wayne: No Ceilings (Mixtape)

2010: Juvenile: Beast Mode

2011: Curren$y: Weekend at Burnie’s

2012: Dee-1: The Focus Tape

2013: Soul Rebels Brass Band: Power = Power

2014: Derrick Freeman: DWB

2015: Lil Wayne: Sorry 4 The Wait 2 (Be Music)

2016: No award given

2017: Dee-1: Slingshot David (Essential Sound)

2018: Curren$y & Freddie Gibbs: Fetti (Jet Life Recordings)

2019: Pell: Gravity (PayDay Records)

2020: Lil’ Wayne: No Ceilings 3 (Young Money Entertainment)

2021-2022: Boyfriend: Sugar and Spice (Independent)

2023: Flagboy Giz: I Got Indian in my Family (Independent)

 

Best Traditional Jazz Band or Performer

1995: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

1996: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

1997: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

1998: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

1999: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

2000: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2001: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

2002: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

2003: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

2004: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbeque Swingers

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

2007: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2008: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2009: Kermit Ruffins

2010: Kermit Ruffins

2011: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2012: Kermit Ruffins

2013: Kermit Ruffins

2014: Meschiya Lake & the Little Big Horns

2015: Kermit Ruffins

2016: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2017: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2018: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2019: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2020: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2021-2022: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2023: Preservation Hall Jazz Band

 

Best Traditional Jazz Album

(category starts in 1996)

1996: New Orleans Nightcrawlers: New Orleans Nightcrawlers

1997: Doc Cheatham & Nicholas Payton: Doc Cheatham & Nicholas Payton

1998: James Andrews: Satchmo fo the Ghetto

1999: Kermit Ruffins: Swing This

2000: Bob French Original Tuxedo Jazz Band and Friends: Livin’ the Legacy

2001: Kermit Ruffins: 1533 St. Philip Street

2002: Kermit Ruffins: Big Easy

2003: Tim Laughlin: The Isle of Orleans

2004: New Orleans Jazz Vipers: Live on Frenchmen Street

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: New Orleans Jazz Vipers: Hope You’re Comin’ Back

2007: Tom McDermott: Live in Paris

2008: John Boutte: Good Neighbor

2009: Allen Toussaint: The Bright Mississippi

2010: Kermit Ruffins: Happy Talk

2011: New Orleans Moonshiners: Frenchmen St. Parade

2012: Preservation Hall Jazz Band: St. Peter & 57th St

2013: Kermit Ruffins: We Partyin’ Traditional Style

2014: Tuby Skinny: Owl Call Blues

2015: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers: #imsoneworleans (Basin Street Records)

2016: Leroy Jones: I’m Talkin’ Bout New Orleans (Independent)

2017: Preservation Hall Jazz Band: So it Is (Legacy Recordings)

2018: Tuba Skinny: Nigel’s Dream (Independent)

2019: Tuba Skinny: Some Kind-A-Shake (Independent)

2020: New Orleans Nightcrawlers: Atmosphere (Independent)

2021-2022: Maria Muldaur and Tuba Skinny: Let’s Get Happy Together (Stony Plain)

2023: Tuba Skinny: Hot Town (Independent)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Band or Performer

1995: Astral Project

1996: Astral Project

1997: Astral Project

1998: Astral Project

1999: Los Hombres Calientes

2000: Los Hombres Calientes

2001: Astral Project

2002: Astral Project

2003: Los Hombres Calientes

2004: Los Hombres Calientes

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Troy Andrews

2007: Christian Scott

2008: Terence Blanchard

2009: Terence Blanchard

2010: Irvin Mayfield

2011: Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra

2012: Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra

2013: Terence Blanchard

2014: Stanton Moore

2015: Terence Blanchard

2016: Delfeayo Marsalis

2017: Stanton Moore

2018: Jason Marsalis

2019: Nicholas Payton

2020: Johnny Vidacovich

2021-2022: Terence Blanchard

2023: Terence Blanchard

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Album

1995: Johnny Vidacovich: Mystery Street

1996: Johnny Vidacovich: Banks Street

1997: Astral Project: Elevado

1998: Los Hombres Calientes: Los Hombres Calientes

1999: Los Hombres Calientes: Volume 2

2000: Branford Marsalis: Contemporary Jazz

2001: Harry Connick, Jr.: 30

2002: Astral Project: Big Shot

2003: Harry Connick, Jr.: Other Hours: Connick on Piano, Volume 1

2004: Ellis Marsalis: On The First Occasion

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Branford Marsalis: Braggtown

2007: Christian Scott: Anthem

2008: Ellis Marsalis Quartet: An Open Letter to Thelonious

2009: Terence Blanchard: Choices

2010: Cindy Scott: Let the Devil Take Tomorrow

2011: Irvin Mayfield: A Love Letter to New Orleans

2012: Doug Belote: Magazine St

2013: Jason Marsalis: In a World of Mallets

2014: Ellis Marsalis: On The Second Occasion

2015: Terence Blanchard: Breathless (Blue Note)

2016: Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra: Make America Great Again! (Troubadour Jazz Records)

2017: Stanton Moore: With You In Mind: The Songs of Allen Toussaint (Mascot Records)

2018: Jon Batiste: Hollywood Africans (Verve)

2019: Jon Batiste: Chronology of a Dream – Live at the Village Vanguard (Verve)

2020: Delfeayo Marsalis & Uptown Jazz Orchestra: Jazz Party (Troubadour Jass Records)

2021-2022: Terence Blanchard featuring the E-Collective and The Turtle Island Quartet: Absence (Blue Note)

2023: Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra: Uptown on Mardi Gras Day (Troubadour Jass Records)

 

Best Brass Band

(category starts in 1997, see Traditional and Contemporary Brass Band)

1997: Rebirth Brass Band

1998: Rebirth Brass Band

1999: Rebirth Brass Band

2000: Rebirth Brass Band

2001: Rebirth Brass Band

2002: Dirty Dozen Brass Band

2003: Rebirth Brass Band

2004: Dirty Dozen Brass Band

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Rebirth Brass Band

2007: Rebirth Brass Band

2008: Rebirth Brass Band

2009: Rebirth Brass Band

2010: Rebirth Brass Band

2011: Rebirth Brass Band

2012: Rebirth Brass Band

2013: Rebirth Brass Band

2014: Rebirth Brass Band

2015: Rebirth Brass Band

2016: Soul Rebels

2017: Soul Rebels

2018: Soul Rebels

2019: Soul Rebels

2020: Hot 8 Brass Band

2021-2022: New Orleans Nightcrawlers

2023: Soul Rebels

 

Best Brass Band Album

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Night Crawlers Brass Band: Funknicity

1998: Soul Rebels: No More Parades

1999: Rebirth Brass Band: Live at the Maple Leaf

2000: New Orleans Nightcrawlers: Live at the Old Point

2001: Rebirth Brass Band: Hot Venom

2002: Dirty Dozen Brass Band: Medicated Magic

2003: Coolbone: Brothers in Swing, Volume 1

2004: Dirty Dozen Brass Band: Funeral for a Friend

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Dirty Dozen Brass Band: What’s Going On

2007-2010: (no award given)

2011: Rebirth Brass Band: Rebirth of New Orleans

2012: The Soul Rebels: Unlock Your Mind

2013: Brass-A-Holics: I am a Brass-A-Holic

2014: Rebirth Brass Band: Move Your Body

2015-2022: (no awards given)

2023: The New Orleans Nightcrawlers: Too Much To Hold (Independent)

 

Best Cajun Band or Performer

1995: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

1996: Bruce Daigrepont

1997: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

1998: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

1999: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2000: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2001: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2002: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2003: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys

2004: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2007: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2008: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2009: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2010: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

2011: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys

2012: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2013: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2014: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2015: Steve Riley

2016: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2017: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2018: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys

2019: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2020: Lost Bayou Ramblers

2021-2022: The Daiquiri Queens

2023: Lost Bayou Ramblers

 

Best Cajun Album

1995: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys: La Toussinat

1996: Gina Forsyth & Waylon Thibodeaux: Dans La Louisianne

1997: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: L’Amour ou la Folie?

1998: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys: Bayou Ruler

1999: Bruce Daigrepont: Paradis

2000: Savoy-Doucet Cajun Band: Sam’s Big Rooster

2001: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: Looking Back Tomorrow: BeauSoleil Live!

2002: Ann Savoy & Other Artists: Evangeline Made: A Tribute to Cajun Music

2003: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys: Bon Rêve

2004: Amanda Shaw: I’m not a Bubble Gum Pop Princess

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: Live in Louisiana

2007: Various Artists: Allons Boire un Coup: A Collection of Cajun & Creole Drinking Songs

2008: Michael Doucet: From Now On

2009: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: Alligator Purse

2010: Pine Leaf Boys: Back Home

2011: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys: Grand Isle

2012: Lost Bayou Ramblers: Mammoth Waltz

2013: BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet: From Bamako to Carencro

2014: Lost Bayou Ramblers: Gasa Gasa Live

2015: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys: Voyageurs (Independent)

2016: Roddie Romero & the Hub City All-Stars: Gulfstream (Octavia Records)

2017: Lost Bayou Ramblers: Kalenda (Rice Pump)

2018: Kevin Naquin and the Ossun Playboys: Man in the Mirror (Flat Town)

2019: (no award given)

2020: Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours: Cameron Dupuy and the Cajun Troubadours (Camo Records)

2021-2022: Zachary Richard: Danser le Ciel (Production Martin Electric)

2023: Lost Bayou Ramblers and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra: Lost Bayou Ramblers and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (Live) (Independent)

 

Best Zydeco Band or Performer

1995: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters

1996: Rosie Ledet

1997: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters

1998: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters

1999: Beau Jocque

2000: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters

2001: Buckwheat Zydeco

2002: Nathan & the Zydeco Cha-Chas

2003: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters

2004: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Nathan & the Zydeco Cha-Chas

2007: Chris Ardoin and NuStep

2008: Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience

2009: Terrance Simien

2010: Buckwheat Zydeco

2011: Geno Delafose

2012: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2013: Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience

2014: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2015: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2016: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2017: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2018: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2019: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2020: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2021-2022: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers

2023: Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. & the Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band

 

Best Zydeco Album

1995: Beau Jocque: Get it, Beau Jocque!

1996: Beau Jocque: Gonna Take You Down

1997: Sunpie Barnes: Lick a Hot Skillet

1998: Chris Ardoin and Double Clutchin’: Turn the Page

1999: Beau Jocque: Zydeco Giant

2000: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr. and the Zydeco Twisters: Zydeco Man

2001: Boozoo Chavis: Down Home on Dog Hill

2002: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr.: Rockin’ Zydeco Party

2003: Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie: Everybody’s Dancing

2004: Rockin’ Dopsie, Jr.: I Got My Mojo Working

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Nathan & the Zydeco Cha-Chas: Hang it High, Hang it Low

2007: Curley Taylor and Zydeco Trouble: Nothin’ Fells Like This

2008: Jeffery Broussard and the Creole Cowboys: Keep the Tradition Alive!

2009: Wayne Toups: Live 2009

2010: Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band: Zydeco Junkie

2011: C.J. Chenier: Can’t Sit Down

2012: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers: Been Good To You

2013: Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience: Dockside Sessions

2014: Chubby Carrier: Back to My Roots

2015: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers: Calling Your Name (Sound of New Orleans)

2016: (no award given)

2017: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers: Top of the Mountain (Crew Records)

2018: Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band: Black Pot (Swampadelic Records)

2019: Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers: Bon Ton (Louisiana Red Hot Records)

2020: (no award given)

2021-2022: Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers: Set Me Free (Louisiana Red Hot Records)

2023: Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. & the Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band: New Beginnings… (Bloodline Music)

 

Best Country/Folk/Singer-Songwriter Artist

(category starts in 2012)

2012: Hunter Hayes

2013: Hurray for the Riff Raff

2014: Hurray for the Riff Raff

2015: Kristin Diable

2016: Paul Sanchez

2017: Sweet Cecilia

2018: Gal Holiday

2019: Leyla McCalla

(category renamed)

Best Country/Folk/Singer-Songwriter Artist

2020: Alex McMurray

2021-2022: Chapel Hart

2023: Alex McMurray

 

Best Country/Folk/Singer-Songwriter Album

(category starts in 2012)

2012: Hurray for the Riff Raff: Look Out Mama

2013: Hurray for the Riff Raff: My Dearest Darkest Neighbor

2014: Hurray for the Riff Raff: Small Town Heroes

2015: Kristin Diable: Create Your Own Mythology (Speakeasy Records / Thirty Tigers)

2016: Amanda Shaw: Amanda Shaw (Independent)

2017: Sweet Cecilia: Sing Me a Story (Independent)

2018: Gal Holiday: Lost and Found (HTRP Music)

2019: Leyla McCalla: The Capitalist Blues (Jazz Village)

(category renamed)

Best Country/Folk/Singer-Songwriter Album

2020: Alex McMurray: Lucky One (Independent)

2021-2022: Lilli Lewis: Americana (Louisiana Red Hot Records)

2023: Paul Sanchez: Between Friends… And Me (Independent)

 

Best Gospel Group

1995: Zion Harmonizers

1996: Zion Harmonizers

1997: Zion Harmonizers

1998: Raymond Myles

1999: Zion Harmonizers

2000: Aaron Neville

2001: Mahalia Jackson Choir

2002: Zion Harmonizers

2003: Zion Harmonizers

2004: Zion Harmonizers

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Zion Harmonizers

2007: Franklin Avenue Baptist Church Mass Choir

2008: Zion Harmonizers

2009: (no award given)

2010: McDonogh 35 High School Gospel Choir

2011: (no award given)

2012: (no award given)

2013: Franklin Avenue Baptist Church Choir

2014: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2015: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2016: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2017: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2018: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2019: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2020: McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir

2021-2022: Greater St. Stephen Mass Choir

2023: No award given

 

Best Cover Band

1995: Benny Grunch & the Bunch

1996: Top Cats

1997: Top Cats

1998: Top Cats

1999: Top Cats

2000: Bag O’ Donuts

2001: Bag O’ Donuts

2002: Bag O’ Donuts

2003: Top Cats

2004: The Bucktown All-Stars

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: The Bucktown All-Stars

2007: The Top Cats

2008: The Bucktown All-Stars

2009: The Bucktown All-Stars

2010: The Bucktown All-Stars

2011: The Bucktown All-Stars

2012: The Bucktown All-Stars

2013: The Bucktown All-Stars

2014: The Bucktown All-Stars

2015: The Bucktown All-Stars

2016: Bag O’ Donuts

2017: Bag O’ Donuts

2018: Bag O’ Donuts

2019: Bag O’ Donuts

2020: The Bucktown All-Stars

2021-2022: Bag O’ Donuts

2023: Bag O’ Donuts

 

Best Emerging Artist

(category starts in 2006)

2006: Deadboy & the Elephantmen

2007: The Eames Era

2008: Los Po-Boy-Citos

2009: Honey Island Swamp Band

2010: Big Freedia

2011: Brass-A-Holics

2012: Hunter Hayes

2013: Corey Henry’s Treme Funktet

2014: Tank and the Bangas

2015: New Breed Brass Band

2016: Soul Brass Band

2017: Trumpet Mafia

2018: Bon Bon Vivant

2019: Sierra Green & the Soul Machine

2020: Mahmoud Chouki

2021-2022: HaSizzle

2023: Victor Campbell

 

Best Female Vocalist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Germaine Bazzle

1998: Irma Thomas

1999: Theresa Andersson

2000: Marva Wright

2001: Irma Thomas

2002: Irma Thomas

2003: Irma Thomas

2004: Irma Thomas

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Irma Thomas

2007: Susan Cowsill

2008: Irma Thomas

2009: Irma Thomas

2010: Irma Thomas

2011: Irma Thomas

2012: Irma Thomas

2013: Meschiya Lake

2014: Meschiya Lake

2015: Susan Cowsill

2016: Mia Borders

2017: Erica Falls

2018: Samantha Fish

2019: Erica Falls

2020: Erica Falls

2021-2022: Tarriona “Tank” Ball

2023: Erica Falls

 

Best Male Vocalist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Johnny Adams

1998: Aaron Neville

1999: Aaron Neville

2000: Aaron Neville

2001: Harry Connick, Jr.

2002: John Boutte

2003: Aaron Neville

2004: Aaron Neville

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: John Boutte

2007: John Boutte

2008: John Boutte

2009: John Boutte

2010: John Boutte

2011: John Boutte

2012: John Boutte

2013: Cyril Neville

2014: John Boutte

2015: John Boutté

2016: Aaron Neville

2017: Cyril Neville

2018: Cyril Neville

2019: TIE: John Boutté, PJ Morton

2020: John Boutté

2021-2022: John Boutté

2023: John Boutté

 

Best Bass Player

(category starts in 1997)

1997: George Porter, Jr.

1998: George Porter, Jr.

1999: George Porter, Jr.

2000: George Porter, Jr.

2001: George Porter, Jr.

2002: George Porter, Jr.

2003: George Porter, Jr.

2004: George Porter, Jr.

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: George Porter, Jr.

2007: James Singleton

2008: George Porter, Jr.

2009: George Porter, Jr.

2010: George Porter, Jr.

2011: George Porter, Jr.

2012: George Porter, Jr.

2013: George Porter, Jr.

2014: James Singleton

2015: George Porter, Jr.

2016: George Porter, Jr.

2017: George Porter, Jr.

2018: George Porter, Jr.

2019: George Porter, Jr.

2020: George Porter, Jr.

2021-2022: George Porter, Jr.

2023: George Porter, Jr.

 

Best Guitarist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Steve Masakowski

1998: Steve Masakowski

1999: Snooks Eaglin

2000: Snooks Eaglin

2001: June Yamagishi

2002: Steve Masakowski

2003: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

2004: Sonny Landreth

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Sonny Landreth

2007: Sonny Landreth

2008: Sonny Landreth

2009: Sonny Landreth

2010: Anders Osborne

2011: Anders Osborne

2012: Anders Osborne

2013: Tab Benoit

2014: Tab Benoit

2015: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

2016: Anders Osborne

2017: Sonny Landreth

2018: Samantha Fish

2019: Samantha Fish

2020: Tab Benoit

2021-2022: Tab Benoit

2023: Samantha Fish

 

Best Drummer

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Johnny Vidacovich

1998: Johnny Vidacovich

1999: Jason Marsalis

2000: Johnny Vidacovich

2001: Johnny Vidacovich

2002: Johnny Vidacovich

2003: Johnny Vidacovich

2004: Johnny Vidacovich

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Johnny Vidacovich

2007: Shannon Powell

2008: Johnny Vidacovich

2009: Johnny Vidacovich

2010: Stanton Moore

2011: Stanton Moore

2012: Stanton Moore

2013: Stanton Moore

2014: Stanton Moore

2015: Stanton Moore

2016: Johnny Vidacovich

2017: Stanton Moore

2018: Johnny Vidacovich

2019: Stanton Moore

2020: Stanton Moore

2021-2022: Shannon Powell

2023: Russell Batiste, Jr.

 

Best Saxophonist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Tony Dagradi

1998: Eric Traub

1999: Clarence Johnson, III

2000: Branford Marsalis

2001: Tim Green

2002: Tim Green

2003: Tim Green

2004: Clarence Johnson, III

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Kidd Jordan

2007: Tony Dagradi

2008: Donald Harrison

2009: Donald Harrison

2010: Donald Harrison

2011: Tom Fitzpatrick

2012: Khris Royal

2013: Donald Harrison

2014: Aurora Nealand

2015: Donald Harrison

2016: Khris Royal

2017: Donald Harrison, Jr.

2018: Aurora Nealand

2019: Aurora Nealand

2020: Donald Harrison, Jr.

2021-2022: Donald Harrison, Jr.

2023: Donald Harrison, Jr.

 

Best Clarinetist

(category starts in 1999)

1999: Pete Fountain

2000: Pete Fountain

2001: Pete Fountain

2002: Alvin Batiste

2003: Alvin Batiste

2004: Alvin Batiste

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Dr. Michael White

2007: Dr. Michael White

2008: Dr. Michael White

2009: Dr. Michael White

2010: Tim Laughlin

2011: Dr. Michael White

2012: Dr. Michael White

2013: Charlie Gabriel

2014: Dr. Michael White

2015: Dr. Michael White

2016: Doreen Ketchens

2017: Dr. Michael White

2018: Dr. Michael White

2019: Dr. Michael White

2020: Dr. Michael White

2021-2022: Dr. Michael White

2023: Doreen Ketchens

 

Best Trumpeter

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Kermit Ruffins

1998: Kermit Ruffins

1999: Kermit Ruffins

2000: Kermit Ruffins

2001: Kermit Ruffins

2002: Kermit Ruffins

2003: Kermit Ruffins

2004: Kermit Ruffins

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Kermit Ruffins

2007: Irvin Mayfield

2008: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2009: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2010: Kermit Ruffins

2011: Kermit Ruffins

2012: Kermit Ruffins

2013: Kermit Ruffins

2014: Shamarr Allen

2015: Kermit Ruffins

2016: Leroy Jones

2017: Nicholas Payton

2018: Leon “Kid Chocolate” Brown

2019: Shamarr Allen

2020: Shamarr Allen

2021-2022: Kermit Ruffins

2023: Terence Blanchard

 

Best Trombonist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Mark Mullins

1998: Mark Mullins

1999: Mark Mullins

2000: Mark Mullins

2001: Mark Mullins

2002: Mark Mullins

2003: Mark Mullins

2004: Mark Mullins

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Mark Mullins

2007: Craig Klein

2008: Mark Mullins

2009: Delfeayo Marsalis

2010: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2011: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2012: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2013: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2014: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2015: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2016: Corey Henry

2017: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2018: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2019: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2020: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2021-2022: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

2023: Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

 

Best Tuba/Sousaphonist

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Anthony “Tuba Fats” Lacen

2002: Anthony “Tuba Fats” Lacen

2003: Anthony “Tuba Fats” Lacen

2004: Matt Perrine

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Kirk Joseph

2007: TIE: Philip Frazier / Kirk Joseph / Matt Perrine

2008: Matt Perrine

2009: Matt Perrine

2010: Matt Perrine

2011: Phil Frazier

2012: Matt Perrine

2013: Kirk Joseph

2014: Matt Perrine

2015: Matt Perrine

2016: Matt Perrine

2017: Matt Perrine

2018: Matt Perrine

2019: Matt Perrine

2020: Kirk Joseph

2021-2022: Clifton “Spug” Smith

2023: Kirk Joseph

 

Best Piano/Keyboard

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Henry Butler

1998: Henry Butler

1999: Henry Butler

2000: Dr. John

2001: Dr. John

2002: Henry Butler

2003: Jon Cleary

2004: Jon Cleary

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Allen Toussaint

2007: Tom McDermott

2008: Henry Butler

2009: Allen Toussaint

2010: John Gros

2011: Ivan Neville

2012: Dr. John

2013: Ivan Neville

2014: Ivan Neville

2015: Jon Cleary

2016: Jon Cleary

2017: Jon Cleary

2018: Jon Cleary

2019: Jon Cleary

2020: Jon Cleary

2021-2022: PJ Morton

2023: Ivan Neville

 

Best Accordionist

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Buckwheat Zydeco

2002: Buckwheat Zydeco

2003: Dwayne Dopsie

2004: Buckwheat Zydeco

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Terrance Simien

2007: Terrance Simien

2008: Terrance Simien

2009: Terrance Simien

2010: Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes

2011: Steve Riley

2012: Steve Riley

2013: Dwayne Dopsie

2014: Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes

2015: Steve Riley

2016: Chubby Carrier

2017: Dwayne Dopsie

2018: Chubby Carrier

2019: Chubby Carrier

2020: Corey Ledet

2021-2022: Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes

2023: Dwayne Dopsie

 

Best Violinist/Fiddler

(category starts in 2008)

2008: Michael Doucet

2009: Theresa Andersson

2010: Amanda Shaw

2011: Amanda Shaw

2012: Amanda Shaw

2013: Amanda Shaw

2014: Theresa Andersson

2015: Amanda Shaw

2016: Louis Michot

2017: Amanda Shaw

2018: Amanda Shaw

2019: Amanda Shaw

2020: Louis Michot

2021-2022: Amanda Shaw

2023: Louis Michot

 

Best DJ

(category starts in 2009)

2009: DJ Soul Sister

2010: DJ Soul Sister

2011: DJ Soul Sister

2012: DJ Soul Sister

2013: DJ Soul Sister

2014: DJ Soul Sister

2015: DJ Soul Sister

2016: Mannie Fresh

2017: DJ Soul Sister

2018: DJ Soul Sister

2019: Raj Smoove

2020: Raj Smoove

2021-2022: DJ Soul Sister

2023: Mannie Fresh

 

Best Other Instrumentalist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Dave Easley (pedal steel)

1998: Theresa Andersson (violin)

1999: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2000: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2001: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2002: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2003: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2004: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2007: Theresa Andersson (violin)

2008: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2009: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2010: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2011: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2012: Johnny Sansone (harmonica)

2013: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2014: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2015: Johnny Sansone (Harmonica)

2016: Washboard Chaz (washboard)

2017: Johnny Sansone (harmonica)

2018: Johnny Sansone (harmonica)

2019: Johnny Sansone (harmonica)

2020: Helen Gillet (cello)

2021-2022: Helen Gillet (cello)

2023: Jason Marsalis (vibes)

 

Best Club

1995: House of Blues

1996: House of Blues

1997: House of Blues

1998: House of Blues

1999: House of Blues

2000: Tipitina’s

2001: House of Blues

2002: House of Blues

2003: Tipitina’s

2004: Tipitina’s

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Maple Leaf

2007: Tipitina’s

2008: d.b.a.

2009: The Blue Nile

2010: Snug Harbor

2011: Tipitina’s

2012: One Eyed Jacks

2013: Maison

2014: Snug Harbor

2015: Chickie Wah Wah

2016: Howlin’ Wolf

2017: House of Blues

2018: Tipitina’s

2019: Tipitina’s

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Tipitina’s

2023: No award given

 

Best Radio Station

(category starts in 1997)

1997: WWOZ

1998: WWOZ

1999: WWOZ

2000: WWOZ

2001: WWOZ

2002: WWOZ

2003: WWOZ

2004: WWOZ

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: KBON

2007: WWOZ

2008: WWOZ

2009: WWOZ

2010: WTUL

2011: WWOZ

2012: WWOZ

2013: WWOZ

2014: WWOZ

2015: WWNO

2016: No Award

2017: WWOZ

2018: WWOZ

2019: (no award given)

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: WWOZ

2023: No award given

 

Best Large Festival

2011: Voodoo Music Experience

2012: French Quarter Festival

2013: French Quarter Festival

2014: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2015: French Quarter Festival

2016: Voodoo Music Experience

2017: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2018: Buku Music & Art Project

2019: Buku Music & Art Project

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2023: No award given

 

Best Festival Outside New Orleans

(category starts in 2006)

2006: Festivals Acadiens et Creole

2007: Festival International de Louisiane

2008: Festivals Acadiens et Creole

2009: Gretna Heritage Festival

2010: Gretna Heritage Festival

2011: Voice of the Wetlands

2012: Gretna Heritage Festival

2013: Festival International de Louisiane

2014: Festival International de Louisiane

2015: Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival

2016: Voice of the Wetlands

2017: Festival International de Louisiane

2018: Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival

2019: T Bois Blues Festival

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Bluesberry Festival

2023: No award given

 

Best Neighborhood Festival

(category starts in 2010)

2010: Bayou Boogaloo

2011: Chaz Fest

2012: Louisiana Cajun & Zydeco Festival

2013: Treme Creole Gumbo Festival

2014: Bayou Boogaloo

2015: Bayou Boogaloo

2016: Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival

2017: Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival

2018: Treme Creole Gumbo Festival

2019: Freret Fest

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival

2023: No award given

 

Best Recording Studio

1995: Ultrasonic

1996: Ultrasonic

1997: Ultrasonic

1998: Ultrasonic

1999: Boiler Room

2000: Ultrasonic

2001: Ultrasonic

2002: Ultrasonic

2003: Piety Street

2004: Piety Street

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Piety Street

2007: Piety Street

2008: Studio in the Country

2009: The Music Shed

2010: Piety Street

2011: Piety Street

2012: The Living Room

2013: The Living Room

2014: Esplanade Studios

2015: The Parlor Recording Studio

2016: Word of Mouth

2017: Dockside Studio

2018: Marigny Studios

2019: Marigny Studios

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Marigny Studios

2023: No award given

 

Record Label of the Year

1995: Black Top Records

1996: Black Top Records

1997: Rounder Records

1998: Rounder Records

1999: Basin Street Records

2000: Louisiana Red Hot Records

2001: Basin Street Records

2002: Basin Street Records

2003: Basin Street Records

2004: Basin Street Records

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Flat Town Records

2007: Valcour Records

2008: Basin Street Records

2009: Park the Van Records

2010: Threadhead Records

2011: Basin Street Records

2012: Basin Street Records

2013: Basin Street Records

2014: Basin Street Records

2015: Louisiana Red Hot Records

2016: Valcour Records

2017: Basin Street Records

2018: Louisiana Red Hot Records

2019: Louisiana Red Hot Records

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Valcour Records

2023: No award given

 

Producer of the Year

1995: Carlo Ditta

1996: TIE: Allen Toussaint / Scott Billington

1997: Allen Toussaint

1998: Allen Toussaint

1999: Allen Toussaint

2000: Jerry Brock

2001: Tracey Freeman

2002: Mark Bingham

2003: William “Buzzy Beano” Langford

2004: Trina Shoemaker

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Delfeayo Marsalis

2007: Anders Osborne

2008: Mark Bingham

2009: Tracey Freeman

2010: Ben Ellman

2011: Anders Osborne

2012: Carlo Nuccio

2013: Anders Osborne

2014: Leo Sacks

2015: Eric Heigle

2016: John Porter

2017: David Torkanowsky

2018: Ben Ellman

2019: Jimmy Horn

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: C.C. Adcock

2023: No award given

 

Best Record Store

(category starts in 1997, see Best “New” or “Used” Record Store)

1997: Louisiana Music Factory

1998: Louisiana Music Factory

1999: Louisiana Music Factory

2000: Louisiana Music Factory

2001: Louisiana Music Factory

2002: Louisiana Music Factory

2003: Louisiana Music Factory

2004: Louisiana Music Factory

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Louisiana Music Factory

2007: Louisiana Music Factory

2008: Louisiana Music Factory

2009: Louisiana Music Factory

2010: Louisiana Music Factory

2011: Louisiana Music Factory

2012: Louisiana Music Factory

2013: Louisiana Music Factory

2014: Louisiana Music Factory

2015: Louisiana Music Factory

2016: Euclid Records

2017: Louisiana Music Factory

2018: Louisiana Music Factory

2019: Peaches

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Louisiana Music Factory

2023: No award given

 

Best Instrument Store

1995: New Orleans Music Exchange

1996: New Orleans Music Exchange

1997: New Orleans Music Exchange

1998: New Orleans Music Exchange

1999: New Orleans Music Exchange

2000: New Orleans Music Exchange

2001: New Orleans Music Exchange

2002: New Orleans Music Exchange

2003: New Orleans Music Exchange

2004: New Orleans Music Exchange

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: International Vintage Guitars

2007: New Orleans Music Exchange

2008: Ray Fransen’s Drum Center

2009: International Vintage Guitars

2010: International Vintage Guitars

2011: New Orleans Music Exchange

2012: New Orleans Music Exchange

2013: New Orleans Music Exchange

2014: Guitar Center

2015: C & M Music Centers

2016: Guitar Center

2017: Guitar Center

2018: Webb’s Bywater Music

2019: Uptown and Downtown Music

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: C & M Music Centers

2023: No award given

 

Best Studio Sound Engineer

1996: Charles “Chopper” Brady

1996: Charles “Chopper” Brady

1997: Charles “Chopper” Brady

1998: Mike Mayeaux

1999: Mike Mayeaux

2000: (no award)

2001: Tim Stambaugh

2002: Steve Reynolds

2003: Tim Stambaugh

2004: Mike Mayeaux

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Michael Paz

2007: Tim Stambaugh

2008: Ben Mumphrey

2009: Chris Finney

2010: Earl Scioneaux III

2011: Chris George (The Living Room)

2012: Chris George (The Living Room)

2013: Misha Kachkachishvili (Esplanade Studios)

2014: Misha Kachkachishvili (Esplanade Studios)

2015: Chris Finney

2016: Tim Stambaugh (Word of Mouth)

2017: Dockside Studio Engineers

2018: Mike Harvey (NOLA Recording Studio)

2019: Eric Heigle

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Tony Daigle

2023: No award given

 

Best Booking Agency

(category starts in 1998)

1998: White Oak

1999: White Oak

2000: White Oak

2001: White Oak

2002: White Oak

2003: White Oak

2004: White Oak

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: White Oak

2007: White Oak

2008: White Oak

2009: White Oak

2010: White Oak

2011: White Oak

2012: White Oak

2013: White Oak

2014: White Oak

2015: White Oak

2016: Hep Cat Entertainment

2017: White Oak

2018: White Oak

2019: White Oak

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: White Oak

2023: No award given

 

Best Manager

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Tom Thompson

1999: Rueben Williams

2000: Rueben Williams

2001: Rueben Williams

2002: Rueben Williams

2003: Jared Zeller

2004: Chris Cuevas

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Kimball Packard

2007: Kimball Packard

2008: Howie Kaplan

2009: Reuben Williams

2010: Tony Ciaccio, Hypersoul

2011: Howie Kaplan

2012: Tony Ciaccio, Hypersoul

2013: Reuben Williams

2014: Jon Phillips (Silverback Artist Management)

2015: Adam Shipley (Hep Cat Entertainment)

2016: Jon Philips (Silverback Artist Management)

2017: Simple Play Presents

2018: MidCitizen Entertainment

2019: Tavia Osbey (MidCitizen Entertainment)

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Tavia Osbey and Reid Martin

2023: No award given

 

Best Music Attorney

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Ellis Pailet

1999: Suzette Becker

2000: Suzette Becker

2001: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2002: Greg Eveline

2003: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2004: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2007: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2008: Ashlye M. Keaton

2009: Ashlye M. Keaton

2010: Ashlye M. Keaton

2011: Ashlye M. Keaton

2012: Ashlye M. Keaton

2013: Ashlye M. Keaton

2014: Ashlye M. Keaton

2015: Ashlye M. Keaton

2016: Tim Kappel

2017: Christophe B. Szapary

2018: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2019: Edgar “Dino” Gankendorff

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: The Ella Project

2023: No award given

 

Best Music Photographer

(category starts in 1999)

1999: Rick Olivier

2000: Rick Olivier

2001: Michael P. Smith

2002: Herman Leonard

2003: Jenny Bagert

2004: Earl Perry

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Terri Fensel

2007: Erika Goldring

2008: Skip Bolen

2009: Zach Smith

2010: Erika Goldring

2011: Kim Welsh

2012: Elsa Hahne

2013: Jeffrey Dupuis

2014-2023: (no awards given)

 

Best Club Owner or Manager

1995: Jack Groetsch, Howlin’ Wolf

1996: Jack Groetsch, Howlin’ Wolf

1997: Jack Groetsch, Howlin’ Wolf

1998: Jack Groetsch, Howlin’ Wolf

1999: John Blancher, Rock n Bowl

2000: John Blancher, Rock n Bowl

2001: John Blancher, Rock n Bowl

2002: Howie Kaplan, Howlin’ Wolf

2003: John Blancher, Rock n Bowl

2004: John Blancher, Rock n Bowl

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: (no award given)

2007: Wesley Schmidt and Jason Patterson, Snug Harbor

2008: Jessie Paige, Blue Nile

2009: Tom Thayer, d.b.a.

2010: John Blancher, Rock n Bowl

2011: Miss Sophie Lee, Three Muses

2012: Dixie Rubin and Dale Triguero, Chickie Wah Wah

2013: Brian Greiner and Jeff Bromberger, The Maison

2014: Hank Staples & Paulina Trujillo, Maple Leaf

2015: Dale Triguero, Chickie Wah Wah

2016: Howie Kaplan / Stu Schayot, Howlin’ Wolf

2017: Hank Staples, Maple Leaf

2018: Wesley Schmidt (Snug Harbor)

2019: Brian “Tank” Greenberg (Tipitina’s)

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Brian “Tank” Greenberg (Tipitina’s)

2023: No award given

 

Best Concert Promoter

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Beaver Productions

1999: Superfly Productions

2000: Superfly Productions

2001: Superfly Productions

2002: Superfly Productions

2003: Superfly Productions

2004: Steve Rehage

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: (no award given)

2007: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation

2008: Ponderosa Stomp Foundation

2009: Hypersoul

2010: Kerry Brown

2011: Winter Circle Productions

2012: Scott Aiges, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation

2013: Dr. Ira Padnos, Ponderosa Stomp

2014: Winter Circle Productions

2015: Scott Aiges, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation

2016: Winter Circle Productions

2017: Live Nation

2018: Winter Circle Productions

2019: Hep Cat Entertainment (Adam Shipley)

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Live Nation

2023: No award given

 

Bourbon Street Award

(category starts in 2003)

2003: Chris Owens

2004: Alton “Big Al” Carson

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2009: (no award given)

2010: Royal Sonesta Hotel

2011: Royal Sonesta Hotel

2012: Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner (Tropical Isle)

2013: Pat O’Brien’s

2014: Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner (Tropical Isle)

2015: Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner (Tropical Isle)

2016: Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner (Tropical Isle)

2017: Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner (Tropical Isle)

2018: (no award given)

2019: Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner (Tropical Isle)

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2023: (no award given)

 

Best Music Video

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Master P: “MP Da Last Don”

(category discontinued in 1999, started again 2011)

2011: Brandon Odums: “Do to Me” by Trombone Shorty

2012: Tyler Yee: “Criminal” By the Revivalists

2013: Brandan “B-Mike” Odums: “Fire and Brimstone” by Trombone Shorty

2014” Emilie Richard-Froozan & Remy Bennett: “I Know It’s Wrong (But That’s Alright)” by Hurray for the Riff Raff

2015: Jermaine Quiz, Director, for “That’s It!” Lyrics Born featuring the Preservation Hall Jazz Band

2016: Mikey Cosention & Sam Green, Director for “Wish I Knew You” by the Revivalists

2017: “Quick” by Tank and the Bangas, Directed by FosterBear Films

2018: “All My Friends” The Revivalists, UMG on behalf of Concord Loma Vista

2019: “Good Time” The Soul Rebels (Feat. Big Freedia, Denisia & Passport P) Video by Chris Haney with Greenhouse Collective

2020: “Visible Means of Support (No Justice, No Peace Remix)” Cha Wa (Filmed by Jonathan Isaac Jackson)

2021-2022: Chapel Hart: You Can Have Him Jolene (directed by David Abbott)

2023: Samantha Fish & Jesse Dayton: Deathwish (Daniel Boone/Horizon South Media)

 

Musician Resource Award

(category starts in 2010)

2010: New Orleans Musicians Clinic

2011: New Orleans Musicians Clinic

2012: Tipitina’s Music Office Co-Op

2013: Ellis Marsalis Center for Music

2014: Tipitina’s Foundation

2015: Tipitina’s Music Office Co-Op

2016: The Ella Project

2017: The Ella Project

2018: The Sync Up Conference

2019: The Sync Up Conference

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: GNO, Inc.’s Music Initiative (“NOME”)

2023: No award given

 

Best Use of Local Music or Musicians in Advertising

1998: Delta Beverage Group

1999: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2000: Popeye’s

2001: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2002: Lakeside Hospital

2003: City of New Orleans Music Office

2004: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Louis Armstrong International Airport

2007: Louisiana Crossroads

2008: The New Orleans Hornets

2009: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2010: Louisiana Public Health Institute “Tobacco Free Living”

2011: The Law Offices of W.A. “Chip” Forstall, Jr.

2012: People’s Health

 

(category renamed)

 

Best Use of Music or Musician in Local Advertising

2013: Times-Picayune/Nola.com / Superior Honda, Zehnder Communications

2014: Peter A. Mayer Advertising (New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival)

2015: City Park and Peter A. Mayer Advertising for “#iheartcitypark”

2016: Juan LaFonta & Associates, LLC featuring Big Freedia directed by Nicholas Manuel Pino

2017-2018: (no awards given)

2019: New Orleans Tourisim and Marketing Corporation

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2023: No award given

 

 

(category renamed)

 

Community Music Promotion Award

2021-2022: New Orleans & Company for its NOLA X NOLA promotion

 

(new category)

 

Community Education Award

2021-2022: Cutting Edge Conference

2023: No award given

 

 

Community Music Award

(category starts in 2013)

2013: Music and Culture Coalition of New Orleans

2014: Ogden After Hours (Ogden Museum of Southern Art)

2015: Trombone Shorty Foundation

2016: New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA)

2017: Upbeat Academy

2018: Send Me A Friend

2019: Trombone Shorty Foundation

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: the New Orleans Jazz Museum

2023: No award given

 

 

Music Business of the Year

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Louisiana Music Factory

1999: Louisiana Music Factory

2000: House of Blues

2001: Louisiana Music Factory

2002: Basin Street Records

2003: Basin Street Records

2004: White Oak

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Piety Street Studio

2007: Rehage Entertainment

2008: Preservation Hall

2009: The Music Shed

2010: Preservation Hall

2011: Mayfield Productions

2012: Basin Street Records

2013: Hypersoul

2014: The Maison Group

2015: Center Staging

2016: Esplande Studios

2017: Winter Circle Productions

2018: Live Nation

2019: Mid-Citizen Entertainment

2020: (no award due to the pandemic)

2021-2022: Tipitina’s

2023: No award given

 

 

Retired Categories

 

Best Overall Performer

1995: Fred LeBlanc

1996: Fred LeBlanc

1997: Kermit Ruffins

1998: Johnny Angel

(category discontinued)

 

Sideman of the Year

(category stars in 2001)

2001: Charlie Miller

2002: Eric Traub

2003: Freddy Lonzo / Smokey Johnson

2004: Peter “Chuck” Badie

(category discontinued)

 

Living Legend

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Dave Bartholomew

2002: Clarence “Frogman” Henry

2003: Wardell Querzergue / Wallace Davenport

2004: Frankie Ford

(category discontinued)

 

Best Emerging Blues Band or Performer

1995: Corey Harris

1996: Chris Thomas King

1997: Chris Thomas King

1998: Kipori “Baby Wolf” Woods

1999: Kipori “Baby Wolf” Woods

2000: Melissa Sigler

2001: Michael Juan Nunez

2002: Big Daddy ‘O’

2003: Eric Lindell

2004: Washboard Chaz Blues Trio

(category discontinued)

 

Best Club to Hear Blues

1995: House of Blues

1996: House of Blues

1997: House of Blues

1998: Maple Leaf

1999: House of Blues

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Blues Vocalist

1995: Johnny Adams

1996: TIE: Marva Wright / Corey Harris

(category discontinued, See Best Vocalist)

 

Best Blues Guitarist

1995: Snooks Eaglin

1996: Snooks Eaglin

(category discontinued, See Best Guitar)

 

Best Blues Harmonica

1995: Rockin’ Jake

1996: Jumpin’ Johnny Sansone

(category discontinued, See Best Harmonica)

 

Best Funk Band or Performer

1995: funky Meters

1996: funky Meters

1997: Galactic

1998: funky Meters

1999: funky Meters

(category discontinued, see Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer)

 

Best Funk Album

(category starts in 1996)

1996: Galactic: Coolin’ Off

1997: All That: Eponymous Debut

1998: Walter “Wolfman” Washington: Funk is in the House

1999: Jon Cleary: Moonburn

(category discontinued, see Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer)

 

Best Emerging Funk Band or Performer

1995: TIE: All That / Galactic

1996: All That

1997: New World Funk Ensemble

1998: Iris May Tango

1999: All That

(category discontinued, see Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer)

 

Best Club to Hear R&B

1996: House of Blues

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Club to Hear Funk

(category starts in 1997, see Funk/R&B/Soul)

1997: Tipitina’s

1998: Tipitina’s

1999: Tipitina’s

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best R&B/Soul Band or Performer

(category starts in 1997, see Funk/R&B/Soul)

1997: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

1998: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

1999: The Neville Brothers

(category discontinued, see Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer)

 

Best R&B/Soul Album

1995: Tommy Ridgley: Since the Blues Began

1996: (no award)

1997: Dr. John: Trippin’ Live

1998: Johnny Adams: Man of My World

1999: Jon Cleary: Moonburn

(category discontinued, see Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer)

 

Best Emerging R&B/Soul Band or Performer

(category starts in 1997, see Funk/R&B/Soul)

1997: The Davell Crawford Singers

1998: Amy and the Hank Sinatras

1999: Soul Remedy

(category discontinued, see Best R&B/Funk Band or Performer)

 

Best R&B/Soul Vocalist

1995: Johnny Adams

1996: TIE: Aaron Neville / Johnny Adams

(category discontinued, see Best Vocalist)

 

Best Club to Hear R&B/Soul

1995: Tipitina’s

1996: (no award)

1997: Tipitina’s

1998: Tipitina’s

1999: House of Blues

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best New Orleans Style R&B Band or Performer

1995: George Porter, Jr. & the Running Pardners

1996: George Porter, Jr. & the Running Pardners

(category discontinued, see R&B/Funk/Soul)

 

Best Urban Contemporary R&B Band or Performer

1995: Walter “Wolfman” Washington

1996: Elate

(category discontinued, see R&B/Funk/Soul)

 

Best Emerging R&B/Funk Band or Performer

(category starts in 2000, see R&B/Soul and Funk)

2000: Juice

2001: Papa Grows Funk

2002: Brotherhood of Groove

2003: Eric Lindell

2004: Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes

(category discontinued)

 

Best Emerging Rock Band or Performer

1995: TIE: The Boondoggles / Thousand $ Car

1996: Royal Fingerbowl

1997: Tiny Town

1998: Mulebone

1999: Joy Buzzer

2000: Morning 40 Federation

2001: Ricki Comeaux

2002: Hazard County Girls

2003: Doctor A Go-Go

2004: Big Blue Marble

(category discontinued)

 

Best Rock Vocalist

1995: TIE: Susan Cowsill / Barbara Menendez

1996: Fred LeBlanc

(category discontinued, see Best Vocalist)

 

Best Rock Guitarist

1995: TIE: Anders Osborne / Cranston Clements

1996: Cranston Clements

(category discontinued, see Best Guitar)

 

Best Rock Bassist

1995: Dave Clements

1996: Dave Clements

(category discontinued, see Best Bass)

 

Best Rock Drummer

1995: Fred LeBlanc

1996: Fred LeBlanc

(category discontinued, see Best Drummer)

 

Best Club to Hear Rock

1995: Howlin’ Wolf

1996: Howlin’ Wolf

1997: Howlin’ Wolf

1998: Howlin’ Wolf

1999: Howlin’ Wolf

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Emerging Roots Rock Band or Performer

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Joe Stark

2002: Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes

2003: Marc Broussard

2004: Chris Mule

(category discontinued)

 

Best Progressive Rock Band or Performer

1995: Evil Nurse Sheila!

1996: Of Human Bondage

(category discontinued)

 

Best Bounce Artist

(category starts in 2012)

2012: Big Freedia

2013: Big Freedia

2014: Big Freedia

2015: Big Freedia

(category discontinued, see Best Rap / Hip-Hop / Bounce Artist)

 

Best Emerging Rap/Hip-Hop Band or Performer

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Coolbone

1998: Juvenile

1999: Hot Boys

2000: Katey Red

2001: Lil Romeo

2002: CAC

2003: Ballzack

2004: DJ Lady Fingaz

(category discontinued)

 

Best Rap/Hip-Hop DJ

1995: TIE: DJ Rico / Wild Wayne

1996: DJ Phit Kit

(category discontinued, see Best DJ)

 

Best Club to Hear Rap/Hip-Hop

1995: Café Istanbul

1996: Club Whispers

1997: House of Blues

1998: House of Blues

1999: House of Blues

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Emerging Traditional Jazz Band or Performer

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Don Vappie & the Creole Serenaders

1998: James Andrews

1999: Egg Yolk Jubilee

2000: Port of New Orleans Jazz Band

2001: Jazz Vipers

2002: Troy Andrews

2003: Jazz Vipers

2004: Troy Andrews

(category discontinued)

 

Best Club to Hear Traditional Jazz

1995: Palm Court

1996: Preservation Hall

1997: Palm Court

1998: Palm Court

1999: Preservation Hall

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Emerging Contemporary Jazz Band or Performer

1995: Jeremy Davenport

1996: Irvin Mayfield

1997: 3 Now 3

1998: Los Hombres Calientes

1999: Quintology

2000: Jonathan Freilich’s Naked on the Floor Quintet

2001: The Naked Orchestra

2002: Aaron Fletcher

2003: (No award given)

2004: Troy Andrews

2005: Maurice Brown

(category discontinued)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Vocalist

1995: Phillip Manuel

1996: Germaine Bazzle

(category discontinued, see Best Vocalist)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Trumpet Player

1995: Kermit Ruffins

1996: TIE: Kermit Ruffins / Nicholas Payton

(category discontinued, see Best Trumpet)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Saxophone Player

1995: Tony Dagradi

1996: Wessell Anderson

(category discontinued, see Best Saxophone)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Guitar Player

1995: Steve Masakowski

1996: Steve Masakowski

(category discontinued, See Best Guitar)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Bass Player

1995: James Singleton

1996: James Singleton

(category discontinued, See Best Bass)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Piano Player

1995: David Torkanowsky

1996: Henry Butler

(category discontinued, See Best Piano)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Strings Player

1995: Michael Ward

1996: Michael Ward

(category discontinued)

 

Best Contemporary Jazz Drummer

1995: Johnny Vidacovich

1996: Johnny Vidacovich

(category discontinued, See Best Drummer)

 

Best Club to Hear Contemporary Jazz

1995: Snug Harbor

1996: Snug Harbor

1997: Snug Harbor

1998: Snug Harbor

1999: Snug Harbor

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Traditional Brass Band

1995: Treme Brass Band

1996: Olympia Brass Band

(category discontinued, See Best Brass Band)

 

Best Traditional Brass Band Album

1995: Treme Brass Band: Gimme My Money Back

(category discontinued, See Best Brass Band Album)

 

Best Contemporary Brass Band

1995: Rebirth Brass Band

1996: Treme Brass Band

(category discontinued, See Best Brass Band)

 

Best Emerging Contemporary Brass Band

1995: Soul Rebels

1996: New Birth Brass Band

(category discontinued, See Best Brass Band Album)

 

Most Promising Newcomer Jazz Band

(category began in 1996)

1996: Coolbone

(category discontinued, see Best Brass Band)

 

Best Emerging Brass Band or Performer

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Coolbone

1998: Hot 8 Brass Band

1999: Michael Foster Project

2000: Forgotten Souls Brass Band

2001: Potholes Brass Band

2002: Potholes Brass Band

2003: Big Sam’s Funky Nation

(category discontinued)

 

Best Club to Hear Brass Bands

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Donna’s

1998: Donna’s

1999: Donna’s

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Emerging Cajun Band or Performer

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Hunter Hayes

1998: Papillion

1999: Le Bon Vie

2000: Kenneth Thibodeaux and the Cajun Dance Band

2001: Feufollet

2002: The Red Stick Ramblers

2003: Amanda Shaw

2004: Savoy Michot Cajun Band

(category discontinued)

 

Best Club to Hear Cajun

1996: Mulates

1996: Tipitina’s

1997: Tipitina’s

1998: Tipitina’s

1999: Mulate’s

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Place to Cajun Dance

1995: Tipitina’s

1996: Tipitina’s

(category discontinued)

 

Best Emerging Zydeco Band or Performer

1995: Rosie Ledet

1996: Rosie Ledet

1997: Chris Ardoin & Double Clutchin

1998: Brad Randell and the Zydeco High Ballers

1999: Dwayne Dopsie

2000: Dwayne Dopsie

2001: Sean Ardoin & ZydeKool

2002: Li’l Nathan & the Big Tymers

2003: Li’l Nathan & the Big Tymers

2004: no award given

2005: Dexter Ardoin & the Creole Ramblers

(category discontinued)

 

Best Zydeco Vocalist

1995: Rosie Ledet

1996: Rosie Ledet

(category discontinued)

 

Best Club to Hear Zydeco

1996: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

1996: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

1997: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

1998: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

1999: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Country Artist or Band

1995: Swingin’ Haymakers

1996: Kim Carson & the Casualties

(category discontinued, see Country/Folk)

 

Best Club to Hear County Music

1995: Neutral Ground

1996: Piney Woods Opry

(category discontinued, see Country/Folk)

 

Best Folk Artist or Band

1995: Mike West

1996: Mike West

(category discontinued, see Country/Folk)

 

Best Folk Album

1995: Swingin’ Haymakers: Live at the Neutral Ground

1996: Mike West: Redneck Riviera

(category discontinued, see Country/Folk)

 

Best Club to Hear Folk Music

1995: Neutral Ground

1996: Neutral Ground

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Singer-Songwriter

(category starts in 2011)

2011: Andrew Duhon

(category discontinued, see Songwriter of the Year)

 

Best Singer/Songwriter Artist

1995: Gina Forsyth

1996: Gina Forsyth

(category discontinued, see Country/Folk)

 

Best Country/Folk Artist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Mike West

1998: Kim Carson

1999: Kim Carson

2000: Kim Carson

2001: Kim Carson

2002: Kim Carson

2003: Kim Carson

2004: Kim Carson

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2009: (see Best Country/Folk/Roots Rock Performer)

2010: Gal Holiday & Her Honky Tonky Revue

2011: Yvette Landry

(category discontinued, see Country / Folk / Singer-Songwriter)

 

Best Country/Folk Album

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Mike West: Econoline

1998: Kim Carson: Tonkabilly

1999: Beth Patterson: Hybird Vigor

2000: Sam Broussard: Geeks

2001: Kim Carson: Calle de Orleans

2002: Mike West: New South

2003: David Egan: Twenty Years of Trouble

2004: Kim Carson and the Casualties: Live at Tipitina’s

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2009: (see Best Country/Folk/Roots Rock Album)

2010: Gal Holiday & Her Honky Tonk Revue: Set Two

2011: Yvette Landry: Should Have Known

(category discontinued, see Country / Folk / Singer-Songwriter)

 

Best Emerging Country/Folk Artist

(category starts in 1997)

1997: TIE: Kyle Hicks / Troubadours of Divine Bliss

1998: Hunter Logan and the Talegators

1999: Beth Patterson

2000: Sam Broussard

2001: The Ploughboys

2002: The Stump Knockers

2003: Lynn Drury

2004: Country Fried

(category discontinued, see Best Emerging Artist)

 

Best Club to Hear Country/Folk Music

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Neutral Ground

1998: Neutral Ground

1999: Carrollton Station

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best County/Folk/Roots Rock Performer

(category starts in 2005)

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Theresa Andersson

2007: Susan Cowsill

2008: The Iguanas

2009: The Iguanas

2010: (category discontinued, see Best Country/Folk Performer and Best Roots Rock Performer)

 

Best County/Folk/Roots Rock Album

(category starts in 2005)

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Ann Savoy and Linda Ronstadt (the ZoZo Sisters): Adieu False Heart

2007: Johnny Sansone: Poor Man’s Paradise

2008: The Iguanas: If You Should Ever Fall on Hard Times

2009: Paul Sanchez and John Boutte: Stew Called New Orleans

2010: (category discontinued, see Best Country/Folk Album and Best Roots Rock Album)

 

Best Gospel Album

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Zion Harmonizers: God Promised Me

1998: Soulful Heavenly Stars: Say Amen

1999: Soulful Heavenly Stars: Who Are We

2000: Aaron Neville: Devotion

2001: One-A-Chord: Shout Hallelujah

2002: Stephen Alfred: For Such a Time As This…

2003: Aaron Neville: Believe

(category discontinued)

 

Best Emerging Gospel Group

(category starts in 1997)

1997: TIE: Mike & Moni / Heralds of Love

1998: Touch of Heaven

1999: Lyle Henderson

(category discontinued)

 

Best Gospel Vocalist

1995: Jo “Cool” Davis

1996: Jo “Cool” Davis

(category discontinued)

 

Best Gospel Choir

1995: TIE: Gospel Soul Children / Greater St. Stephen’s Choir

1996: Gospel Soul Children

(category discontinued, see Best Gospel Group)

 

Best Club to Hear Gospel

1995: TIE: House of Blues / Church

1996: Praline Connection

1997: House of Blues

1998: House of Blues

1999: House of Blues

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Latin Music Performer

1995: Los Babies del Merengue

1996: Mas Mamones

1997: Mas Mamones

1998: Fredy Omar con su Banda

1999: Los Hombres Calientes

2000: Los Hombres Calientes

2001: Los Hombres Calientes

2002: Fredy Omar con su Banda

(category discontinued, see Latin/World)

 

Best Latin Music Album

1995: Los Babies del Merengue: Ay Que Vacilon

1996: (no award)

1997: Acoustic Swiftness: Molino

1998: Mas Mamones: Aguacero y Parranda

1999: Los Hombres Calientes: Volume 2

2000: John Boutte & Cubanismo featuring the Yockamo AllStars: Mardi Gras Mambo

2001: Los Hombres Calientes: New Congo Square: Volume 3

2002: Los Tres Amigos: Moon and Sand

(category discontinued, see Latin/World)

 

Best Emerging Latin Music Performer

(category starts in 1997, see Latin/World)

1997: Fredy Omar

1998: Los Hombres Calientes

1999: Los Calientes del Son

2000: Los Vecinos

2001: (no award given)

2002: Otra

(category discontinued, see Latin/World)

 

Best Club to Hear Latin Music

1995: Café Brasil

1996: Café Brasil

1997: Café Brasil

1998: Café Brasil

1999: Café Brasil

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best World Music Performer

1995: Shepherd Band

1996: Cool Riddims and Sista Teedy

1997: Cool Riddims and Sista Teedy

1998: Cool Riddims and Sista Teedy

1999: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars

2000: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars

2001: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars

2002: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars

(category discontinued, see Latin/World)

 

Best World Music Album

(category starts in 1996)

1996: Bamboula 2000: Cultural Warriors

1997: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars: The Big Kibosh

1998: Cool Riddims and Sista Teedy: Pledge to my People

1999: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars: Fresh Out of the Past

2000: Casa Samba: Afro-Brazilian Fantasy

2001: Sunpie: Sunpie

(category discontinued, see Latin/World)

 

Best Emerging World Music Performer

(category starts in 1997, see Latin/World)

1997: The Revelers

1998: The Revelers

1999: Milonga Tango

2000: (no award given)

2001: 007

2002: Higher Heights

(category discontinued, see Latin/World)

 

Best Club to Hear World Music

1995: Café Brasil

1996: Café Brasil

1997: Café Brasil

1998: Café Brasil

1999: Café Brasil

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Latin/World Music Performer

(category starts in 2003)

2003: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars

2004: Fredy Omar con su Banda

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Fredy Omar con su Banda

2007: Vivaz

(category discontinued)

 

Best Latin/World Album

(category starts in 2003)

2003: New Orleans Klezmer AllStars: Borvis

2004: Otra: Todo Pa’La Gente

(category discontinued)

 

Best Emerging Latin/World Performer

(category starts in 2002)

2002: Otra

2003: (no award given)

2004: Creole Classique Ensemble

(category discontinued)

 

Best Band or Performer Only in New Orleans

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Henry Butler

2002: Wild Magnolias

2003: Wild Magnolias

2004: Bonerama

(category discontinued)

 

Best Album Only in New Orleans

(category starts in 2001)

2001: Bonerama: Live at the Old Point Bar

2002: Anders Osborne & Monk Boudreaux: Bury the Hatchet

2003: Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles: Mr. Stranger Man

2004: Bonerama: Live from New York

(category discontinued)

 

Best Cover Band Album

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Dash Rip Rock: Gold

1998: Top Cats: Party with the Big Dogs

(category discontinued)

 

Best Emerging Cover Band

(category starts in 1997)

1997: TIE: Bag of Donuts / Hank Sinatras

1998: Johnny Angel and the Swingin’ Deamons

1999: Chee Weez

(category discontinued, see Best Emerging Band)

 

Best Club to Hear Cover Bands

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

1998: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

1999: Mid-City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl

(category discontinued, see Best Club)

 

Best Harmonica Player

(category starts in 1997)

1997: J’Monque D

1998: J’Monque D

1999: Rockin’ Jake

2000: Rockin’ Jake

2001: Rockin’ Jake

2002: Johnny Sansone

2003: Johnny Sansone

2004: Rockin’ Jake

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Johnny Sansone

2007: Ben Ellman

(category discontinued)

 

Best Radio Station besides WWOZ

1995: WTUL

1996: WTUL

(category discontinued, see Best Radio Station)

 

Best Radio Personality

(category starts in 1998)

1998: John Sinclair

1999: John Sinclair

2000: John Sinclair

2001: John Sinclair

2002: John Sinclair

2003: Bob French

2004: Bob French

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: (no award)

2007: Bob French

(category discontinued)

 

Best Local TV Series

(category starts in 1997)

1997: Louisiana Jukebox

1998: Louisiana Jukebox

1999: Louisiana Jukebox

2000: Louisiana Jukebox

2001: Louisiana Jukebox

2002: Louisiana Jukebox

2003: Louisiana Jukebox

2004: WWL Morning Show

(category discontinued)

 

Best Local TV Program (One Time)

(category starts in 1998)

1998: WB 38: Satchmo of the Ghetto

1999: PBS: River of Song

(category discontinued)

 

Best Festival besides New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

1995: French Quarter Festival

1996: French Quarter Festival

(category discontinued, see Best Festival)

 

Best Festival

(category starts in 1997)

1997: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

1998: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

1999: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2000: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2001: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2002: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2003: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2004: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2007: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

2008: French Quarter Festival

2009: Voodoo Music Experience

2010: French Quarter Festival

(category discontinued, see Best Large Festival and Best Neighborhood Festival)

 

Best Neighborhood Bar featuring Music

(category starts in 2011)

2011: Mimi’s in the Marigny

2012: Buffa’s Bar & Restaurant

(category discontinued)

 

Best Record Store (New)

1995: Louisiana Music Factory

1996: Louisiana Music Factory

(category discontinued)

 

Best Record Store (Used)

1996: Record Ron’s

1996: Louisiana Music Factory

(category discontinued)

 

Best Pro Audio Store

1995: Sound Chek

1996: TIE: New Orleans Music Exchange / Sound Chek

1997: Pyramid Audio

1998: Sound Chek

1999: Guitar Center

2000: New Orleans Music Exchange

2001: New Orleans Music Exchange

2002: New Orleans Music Exchange

2003: Guitar Center

2004: Guitar Center

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Guitar Center

2007: Guitar Center

2008: Guitar Center

(category discontinued in 2009)

 

Best Talent Booker

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Sonny Schneidau (House of Blues)

1999: Sonny Schneidau (House of Blues)

2000: Sonny Schneidau (House of Blues)

2001: Adam Shipley (Tipitina’s)

2002: Adam Shipley (Tipitina’s)

2003: Sonny Schneidau (House of Blues)

2004: Ed White (White Oak)

(category discontinued)

 

Best Club Acoustics

1995: House of Blues

1996: House of Blues

1997: House of Blues

1998: House of Blues

1999: House of Blues

(category discontinued)

 

Best Album Artwork

1995: TIE: Anders Osborne: Which Way to Here (Steve Winn) / Evil Nurse Sheila!: Evil Nurse Sheila! (Andrew Smith)

1996: New Orleans NightCrawlers: New Orleans Nightcrawlers (Diane Wanek)

1997: Smilin Myron: What About the People (Diane Wanek)

1998: New World Funk Ensemble: New World Funk Ensemble (Diane Wanek)

1999: Beth Patterson: Hybrid Vigor (Diana Thornton)

2000: New Orleans Nightcrawlers: Live at the Old Point (Scott Saltzman, photographer)

2001: Kidd Jordan: Kidd Stuff (Bunny Matthews)

2002: Astral Project: Big Shot (Diana Thornton)

2003: Deacon John: Deacon John’s Jump Blues (Ed Lacken, Vetter Communications)

2004: Astral Project: The Legend of Cowboy Bill (Jenny Bagert, photographer)

(category discontinued)

 

Best Music Educator

(category starts in 2000)

2000: Ellis Marsalis

2001: Ellis Marsalis

2002: Ed Petersen

2003: Edward “Kidd” Jordan

2004: Edward “Kidd” Jordan

(category discontinued)

 

Best Music Journalist

1995: Keith Spera

1996: Keith Spera

1997: Keith Spera

1998: Scott Jordan

1999: Keith Spera

2000: Keith Spera

2001: Keith Spera

2002: Keith Spera

2003: Keith Spera

2004: Keith Spera

(category discontinued)

 

Best Music Website

(category starts in 1997)

1997: OffBeat.com

1998: OffBeat.com

1999: OffBeat.com

2000: OffBeat.com

2001: OffBeat.com

2002: Satchmo.com

2003: MasterDigital.com

2004: Tipitinas.com

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006-2009: (no award given)

2010: PonderosaStomp.com

2011: OffBeat.com

(category discontinued)

 

Best Street Promotion

(category starts in 2010)

2010: Lawrence Parker

(category discontinued)

 

Music Awareness Award

(category starts in 1998)

1998: Delta Beverage Group

1999: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2000: Popeye’s

2001: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2002: Lakeside Hospital

2003: City of New Orleans Music Office

2004: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2005: (no award because of Katrina)

2006: Louis Armstrong International Airport

2007: Louisiana Crossroads

2008: The New Orleans Hornets

2009: WWL-TV “Spirit of New Orleans”

2010: Louisiana Public Health Institute “Tobacco Free Living”

(category discontinued, see “Best Use of Local Music or Musicians in Advertising” and “Community Music Award”

 

Community Music Awareness Award

(category starts in 2011)

2011: Young Leadership Council

2012: People’s Health

(category discontinued, see Community Music Award)

 

Community Music Award: Non-Profit Achievement

(category starts in 2012)

2012: The Roots of Music

(category discontinued, see Community Music Award)

 

Best Use of Music or Musicians to Promote New Orleans

(category starts in 2013)

2013: Lily Keber, Mairzy Doats Productions “Bayou Maharajah”

(category discontinued)

 

Music Programming Award

(category starts in 2010)

2010: Ogden Museum of Southern Art “Ogden After Hours”

(category discontinued)

 

Non-Profit Achievement Award

(category starts in 2010)

2010: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation

(category discontinued)

 

Mayor’s Music Champion

(category starts in 2002)

2002: Hibernia Bank

2003: Tipitina’s Foundation

2004: New Orleans Musician’s Clinic

(category discontinued)

 

Best Thing to Happen Musically

1995: New Orleans Musicians Recognized and Signed to Big Labels

1996: Consideration of removing the Amusement Tax

1997: LMNOP – Music Conference

1998: Tipitina’s Opens French Quarter Location

(category discontinued)

 

Worst Thing to Happen Musically

1995: Continuation of Amusement Tax

1996: TIE: Harassment of Street Musicians / Amusement Tax

1997: Johnny Adams sick

1998: Raymond Myles murdered

(category discontinued)