Join The Wavy Community!
Become a Wavy member to help fuel a powerful creative resistance—a vibrant space where artists’ hearts can sing even in challenging times. Hate is loud. But, with your support? Love, justice, and music will always be louder.
Join us in building a sustainable nonprofit that fights for equity and uplifts the independent artists who shape our culture. Together, we’ll turn the tide and amplify voices that matter.
All members receive 5 submissions to The Wavy Awards. Members may submit their own or others’ music.
Become a member to unlock 5 Wavy entries! With a Wavy membership, get access to top consideration for Wavy Music News, Mean Machine's Sync Library, and our other partner opportunities. In addition, enjoy free entry into all Wavy events for the year.
Wavy Submissions are now open
Wavy Submissions are now open
THE WAVY AWARDS
Our annual ceremony spotlights the emerging artists already shaping music culture. The mainstream music machine wasn't built for everyone; it filters artists out by design, based on who they know, what they look like, and who pays the bills. The messed up part? We think, if the industry got to meet these artists, they’d really like them. That’s why The Wavy Awards exist.
This is a one-time entry fee for consideration into the 2026 Wavy Ceremony. Once you sign-up you will be emailed the entry form.
Feeling non-commital? That’s okay, too! Enjoy a one-time entry fee here…
If you are already a member, you can add up to 3 extra submissions for $5 each.
As a Glitter Member: submit up to 5 works for consideration in the annual Wavy Awards; help rank non-affiliated Wavy Submissions; attend the awards ceremony and bring a guest; enjoying the red carpet experience, professional photos, and complimentary food and drinks; receive invites to all Wavy events throughout the year, ensuring you stay connected with the community.
Love what The Wavys are about? Consider becoming a Glitter Member to weigh in on The Wavy Winners (excluding your or any affiliates’ categories)
2026 Wavy Awards
Submission Guidelines
The Wavy Awards celebrates diversity, inclusion, and artistic excellence in music. We invite submissions from artists of all backgrounds, with a focus on amplifying historically underrepresented voices.
Eligibility Period
All submissions must be released or performed between August 31, 2025, and September 1, 2026. See FAQ below for more details.
Accessibility:
We are committed to making the submission process accessible to all. For feedback, accommodations, or assistance, please contact us at get.wavy@wavyawards.org.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE:
JUNE 1, 2026
Categories
New Artist of the Year
For artists who have gained significant recognition within the eligibility period. Must be the artist's debut or breakthrough release.
Live Performance of the Year
Any live performance that took place during the eligibility period. Virtual/live-streamed performances are eligible.
Album of the Year
Full-length albums released during the eligibility period. Must contain at least 7 tracks or 30 minutes of music.
Song of the Year
Individual tracks released during the eligibility period. All genres welcome.
Production of the Year
Recognizing exceptional production work on a song or album. Producers must be credited on the official release.
Songwriter of the Year
Honoring outstanding songwriting achievements. Submit up to 3 songs written during the eligibility period.
Music Video of the Year
Music videos released during the eligibility period. Must be for an original song.
Song for a Cause
Songs that address social issues or promote positive change. Released during the eligibility period.
FAQs
Who can submit entries?
1
The Wavy Awards celebrates diversity, inclusion, and artistic excellence in music. We invite submissions from artists of all backgrounds, with a focus on amplifying historically underrepresented voices, including but not limited to those who self-identify as: BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, non-binary individuals, and artists with disabilities. Submissions from independent and unsigned artists are strongly encouraged.
What kinds of music can I submit?
2
All genres and styles of music are welcome, including those yet to be defined!
Can I enter unreleased work?
3
Yes. Artists may submit yet-to-be-released work, but the work must be published by or before the submission period’s end.
How are winners chosen?
4
A panel of judges evaluates and ranks each submission based on the following criteria:
Artistic Merit and Creativity
Impact and Efficacy
Cultural Relevance
Technical Excellence