SAMA 2024 - Music Criteria

Alice Faye winning Best Acoustic at SAMA 2023, photography by Alice Hadden.

2024 SAMA Music Criteria & Nominators

How do the SAMA’s work?

Process:

The group of nominators will work as a team to identify a shortlist of 4 artists they feel represent the award, with 1 backup artist. The nominator group will meet with SAMA representatives to confirm the choices and ensure they fit the criteria.

Essential Criteria:

Track Releases: Artists must have released at least 3 tracks in the past 12 months. These tracks should be available on major digital streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Amazon Music, etc.
Artistic Excellence: Demonstration of exciting creativity, innovation in artistry, and strong songwriting ability.
Social Media Presence: Artists must maintain an active presence on key social media platforms, including TikTok, Twitter (X), and Instagram.
Age Requirement: Artists MUST BE 16 years of age or older.
Location: Artists must be based in Scotland.
Specific SAMA notes:

Newcomer Award - Artist must have been active for at least 6 months in their career, this is a multi-genre award and should celebrate artists at an exciting moment in their current career.
Live Act Award - Artists must be active in the live music scene, and the nominees will evidence multiple performances, including tours, festival bookings, and headline performances.
Hip Hop/Acoustic/Electronic/Metal/Rock & Alternative - the award can explore genres influenced by category but may also dive into new soundscapes.

Desirable Criteria:

Live Music Presence: Artists should be active in the live music scene. Evidence of performances, including live streaming events during COVID-19, upcoming tour dates, or event bookings, will strengthen the nomination.
Artist Development: Indicators of growth and progression, such as releasing a professional music video (YouTube or similar platform), show a commitment to advancing their career.
Audience Engagement: Proof of meaningful engagement with fans.
Media Exposure: Evidence of interest or support from media outlets, including radio (BBC Introducing) and digital media, showcasing the artist's recognition in the industry.
Collaboration: Demonstrating a willingness to collaborate with other artists across genres or creative fields can highlight an artist's versatility and openness to artistic innovation.

Other things to consider:

Cultural Representation: Artists who reflect or promote cultural diversity in their music, lyrics, or performances, representing underrepresented groups, genres, or languages, can contribute to a more inclusive industry landscape.
International Reach: Artists who have demonstrated appeal beyond their home country, such as international releases, collaborations, or shows, can strengthen their case. Evidence of global streams, media coverage, or participation in international festivals would be valuable.
Innovation in Music Production: Recognition of artists who show a commitment to innovative music production techniques, either through self-production, experimentation with new sounds or genres, or use of cutting-edge technology (e.g., AI, immersive audio).
Community Engagement: Artists who are involved in community-building activities, such as charity work, educational projects, or collaborations with local cultural organisations, can showcase a wider impact beyond just their music.
Industry Support: Working with a management team, booking agency, or label will enhance the artist's case for development and long-term career potential.

Who are the music judges?

in alphabetical order

Best Acoustic sponsored by Musicians Union

Alistair Braidwood - Scots Whae Hae!
Katie Guthrie - Underground Sounds
Michael Ward - La Serria Casa Songwriting Camp

Best Electronic sponsored by Groover

Blair Wallace - Sonica Festival / Cryptic Presents
Cammy Gallacher - The Skinny
Lauren Lee - EE / Terminal V

Best Hip Hop sponsored by PITCH Scotland

Jack Hughes - HOURS Aberdeen
Karin Bezchlebova - PITCH Scotland
Sami Omar - Up2Stndrd

Best Live Act sponsored by St Luke’s & The Winged Ox

David Weaver - Cultural Programme (Stirling Council) / CORE. A celebration of Noise
Kitt Carr - Wide Days / Off The Record
Sanjeev Mann - Hip Hop Scotland

Best Metal sponsored by Drygate Brewing Co