Our man with a van, Kevin Curtin, surprised this year’s Austin Music Award winners with a novelty check, gifts, and the appreciation from a thankful city. You voted and we’re celebrating your choices with a little help from our sponsor, Cap Metro.
Below you can find video proof of that celebration thanks to some production assistance from Arts & Labor. Thanks also to photographer David Brendan Hall who not only captured his trademark incredible images but also distracted our winners while Kevin did his best to sneak up on them in a massive van.
Album of the Year (presented by Real Ale Brewing): Jackie Venson
Musician of the Year (presented by Trashless): Jackie Venson
Musician Who Went Above & Beyond (presented by The Soup Peddler): Jackie Venson
Best Livestreaming Artist (presented by Luxe Refill): Jackie Venson

Hip-Hop Artist of the Year (presented by BeatStars): Magna Carda

Song of the Year (presented by Real Ale Brewing): “Revolution” by Heartless Bastards

Songwriter of the Year (presented by Desert Door Sotol): David Ramirez

Video of the Year (presented by Real Ale Brewing): “Outside” by Annabelle Charlegs

Best Nonprofit & Fundraising Effort (presented by Cap Metro): HAAM

Best Innovation/Business Pivot (presented by Becky Beaver): Love and Lightstream

Best Virtual Event (presented by Weird Homes Tour): Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic

Best Online Series: Shakey Graves Presents Hello Gorgeous

Hall of Fame Inductees (presented by Strait Music Company): Iron Age

Best Radio Personality: Laurie Gallardo

Best Radio Station (presented by BMI & Cap Metro): KUTX

Best Record Store: Waterloo Records

Best Local Label: Chicken Ranch Records

Band of the Year (presented by Dulce Vida Tequila): Black Pumas

Best Recording Studio: Arlyn Studios

Best 2020-Themed Song (presented by Precision Camera & Cap Metro): “Stay Home” by Shinyribs

Emcee of the Year: Kevin Curtin

This article appears in February 26 • 2021.
