NIMA 2021 finalists announced: Qld artists figure prominently

Queensland’s First Nations artists have snared a slew of nominations for the National Indigenous Music Awards. FULL LIST

Queensland’s First Nations music stars have been honoured with a slew of nominations at this year’s National Indigenous Music Awards, announced today to coincide with NAIDOC Week.

Woorabinda singer Miiesha and Brisbane rising star Sycco are finalists for both the artist and song of the year awards at Australia’s premier First Nations music event, to be held in Darwin next month.

The pair will compete in the artist of the year category against music powerhouses including Jessica Mauboy, Baker Boy and The Kid Laroi, who has collaborated with Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber.

Miiesha is nominated for song of the year for her single Damaged.

“So excited to be nominated for two NIMAs this year. There is so much deadly music being made by Indigenous artists so it’s an honour to be alongside them,” Miiesha said.

“Can’t wait to be in Darwin and celebrate the night with all the mob there.”

Mackay’s Tia Gostelow is nominated for album of the year for her record Chrysalis as well as best film clip, alongside Queensland country star Troy Cassar-Daly and Sycco in her third nomination.

Brisbane band Beddy Rays are up for new talent of the year.

The Queensland cohort is among the 14 First Nations solo artists and 11 groups short-listed across seven categories.

Sycco

Tia Gostelow

NIMAs creative director Ben Graetz said: “This year, as we focus on healing and reflection, we have the wonderful opportunity to reconnect as a community to discover and celebrate the magic of music from both up-and-coming and established First Nation artists.

“The finalists are some of the most talented musicians across the country and the world, and we are proud to be able to provide a platform for their musical craft to be recognised.”

Miiesha, who scored a hat-trick of awards at the recent Queensland Music Awards, will also perform at the ceremony, which will be hosted by Queensland comedian Steven Oliver.

The ceremony will take place at the Darwin Amphitheatre on August 7.