The Scottish Alternative Music Awards (SAMA’s) recognises the best new Scottish music, shining a spotlight across an eclectic range of contemporary music genres. Last month the awards were announced to return to Saint Luke’s Glasgow, on Friday 25th October, marking its TENTH year.

The ceremony will include live performances by psych rockers The Cosmic Dead, hip hop visionary Chlobocop, and Dumfries punks Franky’s Evil Party whilst being hosted by new music champion Jim Gellatly and poet Leyla Josephine.

Ran in association with key partners Rebel Rebel Barbers, and Creative Scotland the SAMA’s are set to bring a giant night of music celebration to Glasgow.

Creative Director, Richy Muirhead adds

“There is so much high quality music coming out of Scotland right now, and it’s important we take a moment to celebrate the artists and genres. The nominations list will be inspiring and innovative, and provide a great opportunity for people to discover new music.”

The 7 SAMA’s are:

Best Newcomer in association with The Academy Of Music & Sound

Best Electronic in association with citizenM hotels

Best Hip Hop in association with Help Musicians Scotland

Best Acoustic in association with BTO BeCreative

Best Live Act in association with Musicians Union

Best Metal in association with Hard Rock Cafe Glasgow

Best Rock/Alternative in association with Beezer

Details of the nominations process have also been released, each award has three specialist nominators who work across the Scottish music industry with that particular genre, these include promoters, journalists, artists and more. The nominators work as a team to identify four Scottish artists who are deserving of the award, based on the music criteria provided. In October, the public will have a chance to play a part through in a three day digital vote to determine the winners who are announced at the live ceremony. The full list of nominators and criteria can be found on SAMA’s website.

2019 Nominator Alistair Braidwood of music blog and podcast Scots Whay Hae! adds

“I’m always excited to be involved with the SAMA’s as it’s an opportunity to better know others who share my passion for music, and learn about new musicians, bands, and labels as a result. You feel part of a vital and ongoing conversation about the health and wealth of Scottish music.”

Many of Scotland’s biggest acts right now are previous SAMA’s winners, including Gerry Cinnamon, Lewis Capaldi, Be Charlotte, Fatherson, The Ninth Wave & many more.

A limited amount of tickets are available for Scottish Alternative Music Awards via Eventbrite. Teaming up with Scotland’s leading music charity Help Musicians Scotland, £1 from each will go directly to the charity and invested back into supporting Scottish musicians.