CATEGORIES 

These categories aim to acknowledge and celebrate artists, songs, and initiatives that exemplify the transformative power of art. Through these categories, we seek to honor artists who champion inclusivity, diversity, and the representation of marginalized voices, while upholding the highest standards of artistic integrity and excellence. 

1. Song of the Year: This category honors the exceptional song that has exhibited extraordinary musicality, lyricism, and emotional resonance. The winning song will have the potential to make a lasting or significant impact and will have left an indelible impression on listeners, reflecting the transformative power of music.

2. Album of the Year: Recognizing the album that has made a profound impact on the music landscape, this category celebrates a cohesive body of work that showcases artistic brilliance, sonic innovation, and emotional depth. The winning album will have demonstrated a remarkable artistic vision, seamlessly weaving together compositions, lyrics, and production to create a transcendent listening experience. It will have left an indelible impression, defining a moment in time and becoming a cultural touchstone.

3. Song for a Cause: This category honors the song that carries a powerful message and strikes a chord with listeners by addressing social issues, personal struggles, or universal themes. The winning song will have resonated deeply with audiences, evoking emotions and inspiring reflection. Its lyrical depth, poetic craftsmanship, melodic brilliance, and harmony will have left an enduring impact, demonstrating the profound power of music as a means of artistic expression and emotional connection.

4. Songwriter of the Year: This category celebrates the masterful craft of songwriting, honoring the individual or team that has penned exceptional compositions. The winner will have demonstrated an extraordinary ability to weave together words, harmony, and melodies, crafting songs that resonate with audiences on a deep and personal level. Their lyrical prowess, inventive storytelling, and ability to evoke emotions will have elevated the art of songwriting and left an enduring impact on the music industry.

5. Production of the Year: This category honors the outstanding production work that has contributed to the sonic excellence of an album or song. The winning production will have exhibited exceptional technical skill, innovative sonic choices, and a deep understanding of how to bring out the best in the music. It will have enhanced the artistic vision of the artist, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape that resonates with listeners and elevates the overall musical experience.

6. Venue of the Year: Recognizing the venue that has provided an exceptional platform for artists to showcase their talent, this category celebrates the accessible and inclusive spaces that have fostered artistic expression and created memorable experiences for both performers and audiences. From accessible entrances and seating options to accommodating diverse needs, the venue will have taken proactive steps to make its space inclusive and accessible for everyone. We honor venues that have created an inviting and welcoming environment for diverse artists and audiences alike, ensuring that everyone feels represented and included.

7. Service Provider of the Year: This category honors an artist or group that has actively engaged with their audience, creating a meaningful and memorable experience through their live shows, fan interactions, or philanthropic endeavors. The winner will have gone above and beyond in providing outstanding services that enhance the artistic journey for both artists and fans. Their commitment to excellence and dedication to delivering an exceptional experience will have set them apart as a trusted and invaluable partner in the music industry.

8. Live Performance of the Year: This category commends the artist or group that has delivered an electrifying live performance, captivating audiences with their unparalleled stage presence and musical prowess. The winner will have exhibited extraordinary showmanship, delivering an unforgettable experience that transcends the boundaries of a traditional concert. Their performance will have showcased the raw energy, passion, and virtuosity that elevates live music to an immersive and transformative art form.

9. Music Video of the Year: This category celebrates the artistry and creativity displayed in a music video, recognizing the visual masterpiece that complements and enhances the music it accompanies. The winning video will have pushed boundaries and captured the imagination through stunning visuals, innovative storytelling, brilliance in editing, and evocative cinematography. It will have offered a captivating visual narrative that resonates with viewers, leaving a lasting impression and enriching the overall artistic experience.

10. New Artist of the Year: This category celebrates the emergence of fresh and promising talents who have burst onto the music scene with their extraordinary artistry. It recognizes artists who have demonstrated a distinctive voice, originality, and a clear vision that sets them apart from their peers. These newcomers have shown exceptional potential and the ability to redefine the landscape of contemporary music, signaling the start of a promising career.

Wavy Worthy (Fan Favorite): This category allows fans to vote for their favorite artist and song that has resonated deeply with them and left a lasting impact and embodies the Wavy ethos of inclusion. It celebrates the profound connection between artists and their fans, highlighting the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and transform lives. The winner of this category will have forged a special bond with their audience, creating a body of work or undertaking initiatives that have struck a chord and become an integral part of the musical landscape.

ELIGIBILITY: 

These rules provide a basic framework for eligibility to ensure fairness and alignment with the award's focus on inclusivity, diversity, and underrepresented communities. All eligible songs, artists, initiatives, and organizations are self-submitted online through the Wavys’s website and/or emailed to the Wavys. The Wavys Team then identifies and organizes all submissions according to the following criteria. 

1. Song of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any song released during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

2. Album of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any album released during the eligibility year- Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

3. Song for a Cause:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any song released during the eligibility year that addresses social issues, promotes equality, and advocates for positive change Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

4. Songwriter of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any individual or team involved in songwriting during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

5. Production of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any individual or team involved in music production during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

6. Venue of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any music venue that has provided exceptional platforms for artists during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

7. Service Provider of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any music service provider (e.g., streaming platform, distribution company, publishing company, or a community organization) during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

8. Live Performance of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any live performance that took place during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

9. Music Video of the Year:

   ELIGIBILITY: Any music video released during the eligibility year Summer 2022 - Summer 2023.

10. New Artist of the Year:

    ELIGIBILITY: Artists or groups who have gained significant recognition within a specified timeframe (e.g., their debut album or breakthrough single released within the last two years.

11. 11. Wavy Worthy (Fan Favorite):

    ELIGIBILITY: Any artist, song, album, or music-related entity that has garnered substantial support and enthusiasm from fans during the eligibility year.

NOMINATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA: 

These criteria help ensure that nominees and eventual winners embody the values of inclusivity, diversity, and representation, while also considering their artistic excellence and impact on the industry. All nominated songs, artists, initiatives, and organizations are chosen from the eligibility pool and then selected by a team of industry professionals, music critics, and/or a combination of public nominations and experts’ input based on the following criteria.  

1.  Song of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The song must exhibit exceptional creativity, lyrical prowess, and musical brilliance. 

2.  It should have made a significant impact on the music industry and/or historically excluded communities and gained recognition from both critics and audiences. 

3. The song's composition, lyrics, and production should demonstrate originality, innovation, and artistic excellence.

4. The song should have resonated deeply with listeners, evoking strong emotions and demonstrating a lasting impact. 

5. Additionally, the song should further address the importance of diversity, inclusion, and equity, either through its themes, message, or representation, promoting a more inclusive and equitable society.

2. Album of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The album should be a cohesive body of work that showcases exceptional artistic vision, sonic innovation, and emotional depth. 

2. It should have made a profound impact on the music landscape, influencing the industry and leaving a lasting cultural impression.

3. The album's compositions, lyrics, and production should demonstrate exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

4. The album should exhibit artistic excellence, pushing boundaries, and contributing to the evolution of music.

5. Additionally, the album should further address the importance of diversity, inclusion, and equity, either through its themes, message, or representation, promoting a more inclusive and equitable society. 

3. Song for a Cause:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The song should effectively address social issues, personal struggles, or universal themes with a powerful and thought-provoking message. 

2. It should demonstrate a clear commitment to promoting social justice, equality, and positive societal change. 

3. The song's impact on raising awareness and inspiring action should be evident. 

4. The lyrics, composition, and overall execution of the song should resonate with audiences and showcase artistic excellence. 

5. Additionally, the song should amplify underrepresented voices, promote inclusivity, and highlight the importance of diversity and equity in our society. 

4. Songwriter of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The songwriter/s should have demonstrated exceptional talent, craftsmanship, and skill in composing songs.

2. Their work should have resonated with audiences, showcasing inventive storytelling and emotional depth.

3. The songwriter/s should have contributed significantly to the art of songwriting and have made a lasting impact on the music industry. 

4. Additionally, the songwriter/s should have actively promoted diversity, inclusion, and equity in their songwriting, using their platform to elevate underrepresented voices and perspectives.

5. Production of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The production work should exhibit exceptional technical skill, innovative choices, and a deep understanding of the music's artistic vision. 

2. It should contribute to the sonic excellence of the song or album, enhancing its impact and overall musical experience. 

3. The production should demonstrate creativity, originality, and mastery in bringing the artist's vision to life.

4. Additionally, the production should embrace diversity in its approach, reflecting and celebrating a wide range of cultural influences, genres, and sonic palettes.

6. Venue of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The venue should have offered outstanding facilities, services, and experiences for artists and audiences. 

2. It should have fostered artistic expression, diversity, and inclusivity, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

3. The venue's commitment to accessibility, community engagement, and promoting diverse musical genres should be evident.

4. The venue's impact on the local music scene and its contribution to the music industry as a whole should be recognized.

7. Service Provider of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The service provider should have demonstrated excellence in delivering music-related services and offerings. 

2. They should have effectively supported artists, facilitating their reach, exposure, and success. 

3. The service provider should have embraced diversity, inclusion, and equity in their operations, actively promoting underrepresented artists and fostering a more inclusive music industry.

4. Their innovations, partnerships, and initiatives should have contributed positively to the music ecosystem.

8. Live Performance of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The live performance should have been exceptional, captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impression.

2. It should have showcased remarkable talent, stage presence, and musicianship. 

3. The performance should have connected deeply with the audience, creating an immersive and memorable experience. 

4. Additionally, the live performance should have reflected diversity, inclusion, and equity, either through the artist's representation or the engagement of diverse performers, promoting a more inclusive live music culture.

9. Music Video of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The music video should be visually compelling, displaying creativity and innovative storytelling techniques.

2. It should enhance the song's message and evoke strong emotional responses from viewers. 

3. The music video's production quality, direction, and visual aesthetics should demonstrate excellence. 

4. Additionally, the music video should embrace diversity and inclusion, showcasing representation and challenging stereotypes.

10. New Artist of the Year:

• CRITERIA: 

1. The artist or group should have shown exceptional talent, originality, and promise in their early career. 

2. They should have made a notable impact on the music industry, gaining recognition and building a dedicated fan base. 

3. The new artist should demonstrate diversity, embracing unique perspectives and contributing to the ever-evolving music landscape.

11. Wavy Worthy (Fan Favorite):

• CRITERIA: 

1. The nominee should have generated a significant and passionate fan following, evidenced by fan engagement, social media presence, and fan-driven initiatives. 

2. They should have resonated deeply with their fans, creating a strong connection and inspiring devotion. 

3. The nominee should embody the values of diversity, inclusion, and equity, reflecting the interests and experiences of their diverse fan base. 

4. This category celebrates the power of fandom and the impact of fans in shaping the music industry.

WHO RECEIVES THE AWARD? 

These guidelines highlight the key parties involved in each category who have made notable contributions to the music industry, diversity, inclusivity, and underrepresented communities.

1. Song of the Year: The songwriter(s) and/or artist(s) whose song has met the criteria for nomination and beyond, demonstrating exceptional creativity, musicality, and resonance with audiences. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a lasting or significant impact on the music industry.

2. Album of the Year: The artist(s), producer(s), and/or team behind the creation of an album that has met the criteria for nomination and beyond, showcasing artistic vision, innovation, and cultural significance. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a lasting or significant impact on the music landscape.

3. Song for a Cause: The songwriter(s), artist(s), and/or producer(s) whose song has met the criteria for nomination and beyond by effectively addressing social issues, advocating for positive change, and inspiring audiences. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a lasting or significant impact on the community.

4. Songwriter of the Year: The individual or team of songwriters whose work has met the criteria for nomination and beyond, demonstrating exceptional talent, craftsmanship, and storytelling. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a notable impact on the music industry.

5. Production of the Year: The individual or team involved in music production whose work has met the criteria for nomination and beyond, showcasing technical expertise, innovation, and elevating the overall musical experience. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a lasting or significant impact on the industry.

6. Venue of the Year: The music venue that has met the criteria for nomination and beyond by providing exceptional platforms for artists and delivering outstanding experiences for audiences. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a lasting or significant impact on the music community.

7. Service Provider of the Year: The music service provider, such as a streaming platform, distribution company, publishing company, or community organization, has met the criteria for nomination and beyond by delivering exceptional services and support to artists. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a significant impact on the industry. 

8. Live Performance of the Year: The artist or musical group whose live performance has met the criteria for nomination and beyond, captivating audiences and demonstrating exceptional talent and stage presence. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a memorable impact on the audience.

9. Music Video of the Year: The director(s), artist(s), and/or production team whose music video has met the criteria for nomination and beyond, showcasing creativity, visual storytelling, and technical excellence. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a significant impact through their visual representation.

10. New Artist of the Year: The emerging artist or musical group whose talent and potential have met the criteria for nomination and beyond, showcasing promise and making notable strides in their career. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a significant impact in the music industry.

11. Wavy Worthy (Fan Favorite): The artist or musical group that has received significant support and engagement from fans, surpassing the criteria for nomination and beyond. The winner must be outstanding above all other nominees and have made or have the potential to make a strong connection with the fan community, leaving a lasting impact.

HOW MANY NOMINEES PER CATEGORY? 

GUIDELINES: The number of nominees can be adjusted based on the specific circumstances and objectives of the category. The aim is to strike a balance between inclusivity, and diversity, and maintain the quality of nominations in each category. 

1. Song of the Year: The number of nominees may vary based on the volume and quality of eligible songs, typically ranging from 5 to 10 nominees.

2. Album of the Year: Similar to the Song category, the number of nominees may vary based on the number and quality of eligible albums, typically ranging from 5 to 10 nominees.

3. Song for a Cause: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to allow for a focused selection of songs that effectively address social issues, promote equality, and advocate for positive change.

4. Songwriter of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to highlight exceptional talent, craftsmanship, and skill in songwritingProduction of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to recognize outstanding technical skills, innovative choices, and a deep understanding of the music's artistic vision in production work.

5. Venue of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to showcase exceptional music venues that have provided outstanding platforms for artists.Service Provider of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to acknowledge music service providers that have demonstrated excellence in delivering music-related services and offerings.

6. Live Performance of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to recognize standout live performances that have made a significant impact during the eligibility year.

7. Music Video of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to showcase exceptional music videos that demonstrate creativity, storytelling, and technical execution.

8. New Artist of the Year: 5 to 10 nominees are selected to showcase a broad range of promising new talents.

9. Wavy Worthy (Fan Favorite): The number of nominees may vary based on the specific circumstances and objectives of this category, typically ranging from 5 to 10 nominees.