The biggest event on San Diego’s music calendar, The 35th Annual San Diego Music Awards, takes place on April 29 at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay. Open to the public, awards will be handed out in 28 categories, plus a Lifetime Award, which this year goes to legendary bassist Nathan East.
Performers set to take part in the event include MohaviSoul, Euphoria Brass Band, Matthew Phillips, Almost Monday, The Tourmaliners, and miniaturized. Funds raised by the ceremony, as well as surrounding events, go to the Guitars for Schools program, keeping music instruction available for children K-12. Over its history, the organization has served over 91,000 K-12 students in 123 schools (85 currently active) from the Mexican border to San Onofre.
The Impact of a Nomination
How does it feel to be nominated this year?
“After all the hard work and collaboration it takes to put music out there, it feels wonderful to be included, and in such honored company,” said multiple nominee, country singer Kimmi Bitter (Artist, Album & Song of the Year + Best Americana Artist). She’s previously won several SDMAs, most recently “Song of the Year” in 2024 for “Aquamarine.”
“It’s validation, I suppose, and it’s always inspiring to keep on creating and playing original music.”
Why does she feel the SDMAs are important?
“Well, first and foremost, it has to be that it supports our schools, keeping music programs alive and thriving,” she said. “The foundation of kids learning to play music together in a group is instrumental in their ability to learn to work together, get along, and contribute to their community and the world at large.”
For Bitter, the night itself is all about camaraderie.
“I’m looking forward to just being in the company of my peers and fellow musicians,” she said. “It’s a real night to share and celebrate the art we all create and are a part of. In a word, community.”
The Power of Recognition
“All the nominees are already winners in my opinion,” commented guitarist Jerry Raney of The Farmers (Best Rock Artist), who previously received the SDMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.
“The SDMAs are important because they bring local music to the spotlight,” he said. “The award show is drawing more attention every year, and the media is becoming more involved as it progresses. Not only does it raise money for music in the schools, but it also helps promote local music in general. A win-win all the way around, in my opinion.”
On awards night, he’s most looking forward to seeing people that he doesn’t see often.
“There are always so many bands playing gigs around town and so much overlapping that it’s hard to show up for many shows. Everyone has their own friends and followers and the different tribes that all come together on this night.”
A Milestone Moment
For singer Cassie B (Best Pop Artist), her nomination caps a busy year.
“It is such an exciting honor to be nominated for Best Pop Artist!” she said. “I feel recognized for the hard work I’ve been doing for the past decade. It feels really nice. I’ve had so much growth, and creating is what I love to do.”
She agrees about the event’s importance to music education and enjoys meeting other artists.
“The fundraising aspect is huge,” she said. “I was introduced to music at school. I’ll never forget when the show choir performed at my elementary school. It changed my life. It’s also so great to learn about other San Diego artists following their dreams and passions too.”
She’s looking forward to event night.
“I love seeing the music community come together and mingle. I rarely get to hang with other musicians outside of gigs, so the networking and hangs are really fun.”
A Celebration of Music
Singer-songwriter Matthew Phillips (Best Pop Artist) will be performing at the event. He previously took home the “Best Pop Artist” trophy in 2024.
“It’s truly an honor to be recognized by the academy for our work,” he said. “I am forever grateful to take home the win last year and hope to continue to push art forward and represent San Diego music globally.”
Why does he feel events like this matter?
“The SDMAs are significant in that it’s a celebration of the music, creativity, and the arts. A place we all come together for one evening, and originality is rewarded.”
While each performer gets to play one song at the show, Phillips has figured out a way to get a little extra out of the spot.
“I’ll be showcasing my two biggest songs, ‘Till It’s Over’ and ‘So In Love,’” he said. “It’s a one-time mashup we made specifically for this event.”
It’s a bit of a dream come true to grace such an iconic stage in San Diego music.
“I remember standing on the floor at the House of Blues at an awards show years ago, not knowing a single person. To now be playing the event surrounded by my friends, family, and peers is truly special, and I am grateful,” he said.
For more information, visit: www.sandiegomusicawards.com
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