The 1997-98
If the phrase "Girl Power" hadn't been rendered silly by the Spice Girls, it would make a great theme for the 1997-98 Austin Music Awards. Over the years, the many trends emerging from this wellspring of musical vitality have been reflected in The Austin Chronicle's annual music poll -- post-punk, New Sincerity, blues, singer-songwriters, and country have all had their day in the sun. To state that these have been primarily male-dominated wins is neither an exaggeration of status nor a dismissal of hard work done. This year, the wave of women performers that seemingly began around punk's do-it-yourself ethic color just about every aspect of Austin Music Awards, bringing fresh blood in many cases and empowering veterans in others. For a 16-year-old poll that can count its female wins in major categories on two hands, this year is astonishing in its scope. To be able to rattle off names like Abra Moore, Ana Egge, and Shawn Colvin -- all first time winners in the poll -- alongside repeat winners like Storyville, Ian Moore, and MC Overlord is exhilarating. The celebration isn't just about gender, though, it's about accomplishment and merit -- who's done what over the last year and how we remember them. More than 60 winners created the music that Austin chooses to remember in 1997; any one of whom are notable, but en masse are unstoppable. Some of the bands and performers are receiving their first career recognition, some have been honored nurmerous times. For all the men and women who make this music, we the audience offer our gratitude for making our lives a little more musical. Aw, what the hel... GIRL POWER! -- Margaret Moser 
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