Category Archives: Events
Registration for Artists to be Nominated Now Open!
IT’S TIME! Today is the day! The registration period for the 2026 WAMI Awards is officially OPEN. Now’s your chance to be part of Wisconsin’s premier music celebration.
Whether you’re submitting your own work or nominating someone who inspires you, here’s everything you need to get started:
KEY DETAILS
Registration Period
Open now—WAMI Wednesday, November 19, 2025—until 11:59 PM on January 31, 2026.
Do I need to be a WAMI member to participate or win an award?
No. WAMI membership isn’t required to nominate, register, or even win.
If you were nominated by someone else or registered yourself last year, the WAMI Board has carried your nomination/registration forward — except for the categories below, which require fresh submissions each year:
There is an exception for these categories:
Album of the Year
Album Artwork of the Year
New Artist of the Year
Rising Star of the Year
Song of the Year
Video of the Year
How to Participate
👉 Register Here to add yourself, your band, venue, club, or your work (album, song, video, artwork) to the 2026 WAMI Awards consideration.
https://wami.org/2026-award-show-registration-nominations-now-open/
FAQs
Can I nominate someone else?
Absolutely! You can nominate a name, band, club, or venue for recognition.
What do I need to submit a nomination or registration?
You’ll need the name of the artist, band, club, or venue you’re nominating, plus their email address.
Who can submit works like songs, albums, videos, or artwork?
Only the artist or their team can submit works for these categories.
Do I need to be a WAMI member to participate or win an award?
No. WAMI membership isn’t required to nominate, register, or even win.
As we begin this year’s awards cycle, we want to clarify an important distinction that often causes confusion:
Nomination vs. Registration — What’s the Difference?
Nomination:
Someone else submits your name, band, club, venue, or project for a category. It’s simply a recommendation.
Registration:
Registration is the official step that enters you or your organization into the awards process. You, your team, or your representative can register your name, band, venue, club, or work to ensure it appears on the ballot once voting begins.
Important:
Many Wisconsin artists and venues aren’t aware that they must register to be included in the voting pool.
If you have someone’s email address — and their permission — you may register on their behalf.
They will receive one email notification that they’ve been registered, with the option to decline if they prefer not to participate.
Why Registration Matters
✔ Ensures you are included when voting opens
✔ Allows you to confirm or correct the category you’re placed in
✔ Gives artists, venues, industry members, and supporters full visibility in their field
✔ Helps WAMI accurately represent Wisconsin’s diverse music landscape
Registration only takes a few minutes and ensures your work is properly recognized.
Thank you for being part of Wisconsin’s vibrant and creative music community. We look forward to celebrating you!
With appreciation,
The WAMI Board of Directors
Congratulations 2025 WAMI Acoustic Guitar Finalists!
Congratulations to the 2025 WAMI Finalists in
Acoustic Guitar Category!
A record breaking voter turnout has nominated the following artists.
Michael Grabner
Sam Ness
Matt “MF”Tyner
Adam Greuel
Tom Thiel
Kurt Gunn
Denny Rauen
Myles Wangerin
Starr Moss
Dana Perry
Join us May 4th at The Deco in West Allis! Buy tickets Here!
WAMI 2025 Awards Show Tickets On Sale Now!
Join us for the WAMI Awards Show LIVE at the DECO in West Allis.
THE WAMI AWARD Show tickets are selling fast! Click here for tickets.
WAMI 2025 Hall of Fame Inductee – Bill Miller
Bill Miller (Fush-ya Heay): A celebrated musician with a deep connection to his Native American heritage, Bill Miller’s powerful songwriting and captivating performances have earned him national and international acclaim. We are delighted that Bill will be accepting his induction and performing at the ceremony. Join us live May 4th, 2025 at The Deco West Allis.
WAMI 2025 Wall of Honor Inductee – Twan Mack
Twan Mack (Wall of Honor): A true Milwaukee hip-hop legend, Twan Mack’s impact on the local music scene remains profound. His lyrical prowess, community involvement, and dedication to his craft have inspired countless artists. We are honored to induct Twan Mack into the Wall of Honor, ensuring his legacy continues to resonate. His mother will be in attendance, and the presentation will be made by Eric from Jammin’ 98.3.
Join us for the WAMI Awards Show LIVE at The DECO in West Allis.
Upcoming Events
Hi everyone, Team WAMI here!
We are thrilled to share some exciting news about the amazing educational initiatives we’re working on. We’re not just about the awards show (though that’s definitely a highlight!). We’re committed to providing valuable resources and opportunities for our members year-round.
First up, we’ll be hosting an educational webinar all about creating killer EPKs (Electronic Press Kits). This is a must-attend for any musician looking to step up their game and make a strong first impression. Stay tuned for dates and registration details.
But that’s just the beginning! Our amazing committee is hard at work planning a whole lineup of events designed to help you learn, grow, and connect with other music professionals. Think speed networking sessions, CD roulette, singer/songwriter seminars, and even tutorials on DJing, podcasting, and video production. We want to empower you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in today’s ever-evolving music industry.
WAMI is more than just an award show – we’re a community dedicated to supporting and fostering Wisconsin’s vibrant music scene. These educational initiatives are a testament to our commitment to our members. We believe that by providing access to these resources, we can help you take your career to the next level.
So stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to learn, connect, and grow with WAMI!