Famed for its musical roots, the city of Memphis has demonstrated that its heartbeat of blues will not be stopped by a global pandemic with the announcement that the 2020 Blues Music Awards will still take place – virtually.
The 41st Blues Music Awards show will mark the first time the event takes place virtually, with nominee performances, award presentations, and other surprises bringing the entire blues community together from around the world.
Taking place on 4 May (Australia time; 3 May in Memphis), this year’s Blues Music Awards gala ceremony will be unlike any of its predecessors, taking place online in living rooms around the world instead of onstage in Memphis.
Live-streamed on The Blues Foundation’s Facebook page and co-broadcasted on its YouTube channel , multi-BMA winning and GRAMMY® Award nominated artist Shemekia Copeland will host the event from her living room and BMA nominees will contribute exclusive performances recorded in their homes. Like prior BMA ceremonies, this online event will also feature announcements of all nominees and award winners, along with some special guest appearances. A full list of 2020 BMA nominees can be found here.
Barbara Newman, Blues Foundation President and CEO said that the goal of this year’s event “is to create a global community from all corners of the world, coming together to celebrate the music and heal our souls.”
Not only will the BMA show emanate from artists’ living rooms around the world, but it can be enjoyed by fans from their own homes while socially distancing— making this event one big communal party. This unique online experience will allow Facebook viewers to share their thoughts and comments with fellow blues enthusiasts watching worldwide as they celebrate blues’ grand night together.
Since shutdowns commenced around the world, the city of Memphis has been at the forefront of creating virtual options for people around the world to still enjoy the music of Memphis. From one of the first virtual music festivals to live DJ marathons, to releasing a series of weekly isolation inspired playlists to keep people upbeat, it seems nothing can stop the musical pulse of this city.
Watch the 41st Blues Music Awards live from 7am, Thursday 4th May (Eastern Standard Time)
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