2026-10-21 · IMA NEWS
Welcome to your new IMA home.
Easier submissions. More award history. Artist profiles, yearly photo galleries and a new hub for Iowa music news and events.
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THE IOWA MUSIC AWARDS · EST. 2022
Iowa sounds. Iowa legends.
Celebrating Iowa. Honoring excellence. Encouraging today’s artists, honoring our pioneers and inspiring the generations that follow.
The room. The energy. The community.
ONE STATE. EVERY SOUND.
What are the
Iowa Music Awards?
A stage for Iowa’s music. A community behind every artist.
We celebrate the performers, songwriters, producers, DJs and creative professionals moving Iowa music forward. Founded by Antonio “Tone Da Boss” Chalmers and presented by T1 Entertainment and the Big Bang Foundation, the IMAs honor today’s talent, remember our pioneers and inspire what comes next.
THE PEOPLE. THE STAGE. THE MOMENTS.
FROM THE IMA NEWSROOM
The latest from our community.
2026-10-21 · IMA NEWS
Thank you, Burlington — a fourth annual Iowa Music Awards to remember.
Thank you to Burlington Memorial Auditorium, the City of Burlington, and every sponsor, artist, volunteer and supporter who helped make the fourth annual Iowa Music Awards a success. Relive the 2025 celebration and revisit the performances, special honors and community moments.
Photo: shotxdoreyVideo by Scott Abing · Shared by T1 Entertainment on YouTube.
Watch on YouTube ↗Read the recap by Intellectual Dissatisfaction · Lyrical Limelight ↗
YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE
Put your work
in the spotlight.
Artists, fans and industry professionals can submit for consideration.
Start your submission ↗FIND YOUR CATEGORY · START YOUR SUBMISSION
Explore our categories
Genres
Pop Artist of the Year+
Recognizes the pop artist whose music, performances and influence make a significant impact, with a strong presence in the pop music scene.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2023
Riley Mobz
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Teri Underhill
- Alisabeth Von Presley
- Ariel Currant
- Tevin Jones
Group/Duo of the Year+
Honors an outstanding group or duo in any genre for musical achievements, collaborations, influence and exceptional talent.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2024
Madi Bloc Musiq
Other nominees · 2024 (4)
- Weary Ramblers
- Katie and the Honky Tonks
- Bummyboys
- 319's Finest
2023
Sons of Mack
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Trap Garage Mafia
- Madi Bloc Music
- Legacy
- Yolla Music Group
2022
Yolla Music GroupBest Group
LegacyBest Duo
Female Singer of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional vocal talent, stage presence, versatility and a strong connection with audiences.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Jaianna
Other nominees · 2025 (5)
- Mahayla
- Mary Jane Knight
- Tee O.V.A.
- Morana Moon
- Amy Friedl
2024
Sharane Calister
Other nominees · 2024 (5)
- Kayla Kelly
- Teri Underhill
- Birdy Young of Hideaway Honey
- K.T. IzdOpe
- Tina Mock
R&B Singer of the Year+
Honors contributions to R&B through soulful performances and compelling music.
Submit to this category ↗Country Artist of the Year+
Recognizes excellence in country songwriting, performance and influence.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Katie and the Honky Tonks
Other nominees · 2025 (5)
- Jordan Beem
- Alyssa Ruffin
- Trystan Grisham
- Lee Klett
- Airyn Duffy
2024
Jordan Beem
Other nominees · 2024 (4)
- Monica Austin
- Gina Owens
- Alyssa Ruffin
- Katie and the Honky Tonks
2023
Monica Austin
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Gina Owens
- Mike Bernard
- Dalles Jacobus
- Kelsie James
Rock Band of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional music and performances, creativity and impact in the rock genre.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Grave Corps
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- Architecture of Sound
- Stars in Toledo
- The High Council
- Alborn
2024
Grave Corps
Other nominees · 2024 (6)
- Wonderful Smiths
- Safe Space
- 28 Days Later
- Marmot
- Agony of Defeat
- Kobe Williams and the Fantasy
Alternative Artist of the Year+
Honors innovation, creativity and influence that push the boundaries of alternative music.
Submit to this category ↗Female Rapper of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional talent, lyrical prowess and impact in the hip-hop scene.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
SOE Heartlesz
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- Pettyasspunkin
- August Gonzalez
- Misfit Millitee
- Chi Chi
Lyricist of the Year+
Celebrates songwriting skill and the ability to craft impactful, meaningful and creative lyrics.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Killa Quey
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- Real Dot Quiet
- Mike Fitz
- Lil Caso
- Patrick Quick Hitters
2024
Killa Quey
Other nominees · 2024 (7)
- Weary Ramblers
- 3J
- OG Roody
- Kelsie James
- Teri Underhill
- Sean Sullivan
- Patrick's Quick Hitters
Hip Hop Artist of the Year+
Celebrates significant contributions to hip-hop through outstanding music, performances and influence.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2024
ColdSaint
Other nominees · 2024 (7)
- Suni Boi
- Draft Pick
- Marvelous Mook
- Mesiahga the Alchxxmist
- Aye Lil Day
- M. Henny
- KeyZee
2023
TheZeffSterr
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Benny the Jet
- Buddy Force
- Coldsaint
- Messiahga the Alchxxmist
2022
Derek "Silence" Hennessy
Other nominees · 2022 (5)
- TheZeffsterr
- Tony Gunnz
- BennyTheJet
- Sten Joddi
- ColdSaint
Funk Band of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional music and performances that showcase rhythm, groove and creativity.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
Latin Artist of the Year+
Honors contributions to Latin music and excellence in performance and production.
Submit to this category ↗Acoustic Artist of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional music and performances with an acoustic setup, showcasing talent and creativity.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
Cover Band of the Year+
Celebrates outstanding renditions of popular songs, captivating performances and a unique interpretation of the originals.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
VIBE
Other nominees · 2025 (5)
- The Best of Fleetwood Mac feat Amy Friedl
- Faux Doubt: A Tribute to No Doubt
- Pianopalooza
- Punching Pandas
- The Time Beings
2024
Mike Moody and The Outlaws
Other nominees · 2024 (6)
- The Mockingbirds
- Stark Raving Madge
- Faux Doubt
- Markut Fresh
- The Feel Right Band
- Hartsmith
2023
Pork Tornadoes
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- KWTF Band
- The Feel Right Band
- HartSmith
- Bittersweet Nation
Christian Artist of the Year+
Honors excellence in Christian music through artistry, performance and impact.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
Industry
Single of the Year+
Recognizes outstanding production, lyrics and overall impact from a single release.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
KlazikOvation
Other nominees · 2025 (5)
- Ncee WavChocalate Covered Strawberries
- Tevin JonesCasino Queen
- GravecorpsHellfire Blvd
- 3JNorth Star
- Entre LuchéMukbang
2024
Tevin JonesDemon TimeR&B Single of the Year
EJ SwavvHit StickHip-Hop Single
2023
Entre LuchéWork
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Tevin JonesStolen
- Flynn ZarkafeeSunset Boulevard
- Flex BormarrThe DJs Bathroom Break
- TheZeffsterrFull Time
2022
Riley Mobz"It's You"
Other nominees · 2022 (4)
- Flex BormanTroy
- SilenceThroat Goblin
- Tevin JonesHittin Tho
- Been There Done ThatAnyone But You
Album of the Year+
Celebrates excellence in songwriting, production and overall artistic vision across an album.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Draft PickThe PrestigeAlbum (Contemporary)
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- The Zeffsterr777 Feel Every Line
- Shorty G.Unfinished Business
- Richie UchihaMi Casa
- C Note & Crate RecklessSmash Bros
YoteA Garden to KeepAlbum (Traditional)
Other nominees · 2025 (5)
- Katie and the Honkey TonksAint No Shame
- Weary RamblersWeary Ramblers (self titled)
- Dr. Z’s ExperimentOut of Pocket
- Mary Jane KnightRising Free: A Journey of Healing
- Todd ApfelScattered Pieces
2024
Ike MidasTouch
Other nominees · 2024 (7)
- Luke StutzmanRide on the Wind
- Flex BormarrAdmin
- Weary RamblersWeary Ramblers (self titled)
- CourterLiving Dreams
- Sean SullivanTorn, Falls, & Thunder
- Savaun & EJ SwavvEra
- Ncee WavSpace & Time
2023
DStreetMCPHX to CID
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Not CaseyParty Like a Partier
- Jake StackProve It
- Tevin JonesThe Callback
- Scott MillerRecovery
2022
TheZeffSterr"222 Read In-Between the Lines"
Other nominees · 2022 (4)
- Riley MobzOkay 4 Now
- Daniel XavierLiminal Spaces
- TayyySavoInner Me
- PettyasspunkinFreakz of the Industry
Producer of the Year+
Recognizes significant contributions to music production through exceptional skill and creativity.
Submit to this category ↗Engineer of the Year+
Recognizes excellence in sound engineering and contributions to high-quality music production.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2024
Lyrikal TMG
Other nominees · 2024 (4)
- Dustin Leibert
- Thunder and Lightning
- Rich Shultz
- Dave Paris
DJ of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional DJ skill, creativity and influence in the music scene.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2023
Dj TMaxDaKid
Other nominees · 2023 (5)
- Bees Knees Entertainment — Bryan Hugh
- DJ Verbatim
- Lando
- Bo Diddley
- DJ T Maxx
2022
Dj Smiles
Other nominees · 2022 (5)
- DJ Nita Beat
- DJ Paimon
- DJ Verbatim
- DJ T Max
- DJ Bryan Lee
Music Video of the Year+
Honors excellence in direction, production and visual storytelling that enhances the song and engages its audience.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Grave CorpsHellfire Boulevard
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- SagromanticsLime Lite
- Alan MorphewOnce Lived a Man
- Stars in ToledoRock & Roll 247 365
- Carol MontagStrange Ballet
2024
The Dan Meideros ProjectDreams
Other nominees · 2024 (5)
- DJ BeejaySay It Then
- HU$HGravity
- Too KleanLOTR
- OhsouamyYa Babymama
- Entre LuchéOn Me
2023
Dria DanielleBaddie Alert
2022
Sten Joddi · Lyrikal TMG
Other nominees · 2022 (3)
- Riley MobzIts You — shot by Young Creatives
- SilenceMirror Mirror — shot by FRAT Audio
- Tevin JonesLil Thang — shot by Young Creatives
Photographer of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional images of music events, artists and related subjects.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
JMR Images
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- JC Productions
- Worthington Photography
- In the Moment
- Mirror Right Media
2024
Royale Studios
Other nominees · 2024 (5)
- Clark Photography
- Thrash Panda Media
- In the Moment
- Jolemi Productions
- JMR Images
2023
Twisted Cedar Studios
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Focus Media
- Clark Photography
- Thrash Panda Media
- Adam Ford
Videographer of the Year+
Honors outstanding music-related video content, creativity and technical skill.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Twenty Twenty Vizions
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- Key Framezz
- Azonte Roby
- I.M. Shine
- Thrash Panda Media
2024
Lyrikal TMG
Other nominees · 2024 (4)
- Thrash Panda Media
- Keyframezz
- TwentyTwenty Visions
- Axe Productions
2022
Lyrikal TMG
Other nominees · 2022 (4)
- Cinemaster
- Young Creatives
- Thrash Panda
- PE Productions
Collaboration of the Year+
Celebrates synergy, creativity and impact in a collaborative effort between artists.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
EJ Swavv · Alicia MonéeTrying Not To
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- Madi x TevinHere Tonight
- Tee3aby x Entre LuchéChange Ya Life
- Klazik x DJ Luke NastyGet to You
- Youngstar x Prince AceOn My Own
2024
Derek "Silence" Hennessy · DJ Luke NastyTake Another Shot
Other nominees · 2024 (4)
- Richie Uchiha, Twista, Krayzie Bone
- EJ Swavv & DStreetMC
- Aye Lil Day and TheRealSamTom
- TheZeffsterr, Courter, Dria Danielle
2023
Tevin Jones · Alisabeth Von Presley · ChuckYouSuckSpare Time
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- J/B feat TwistSilver Platter
- Gifted Hands feat KlazikHow You Make It
- Ncee WAV feat MC AnimosityTarantula
- Buuk ilo feat DRuss2xDumb
2022
Mr. Anderson · Alisabeth Von Presley · Krayzie BoneFinally
Other nominees · 2022 (3)
- Tevin Jones feat SilenceSGA
- Snake Lucci feat King ISOAcid Spit
- Silence feat Riley MobzI See You
Promoter of the Year+
Recognizes contributions through organizing and promoting events, supporting artists and engaging audiences.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2024
Tevin Jones
Other nominees · 2024 (4)
- Korrupted Promotions
- Chapis
- Bigga Ray West
- Rahlan Kay
Podcast of the Year+
Recognizes exceptional content, engagement and production quality in podcasting across topics and formats.
Submit to this category ↗Inspirational Song of the Year+
Honors a song that uplifts listeners through a positive message and impactful lyrics.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
JaiannaGrateful
Other nominees · 2025 (4)
- Mary Jane KnightRising Free
- Kate ShuLevitate
- Rhythminn SoothesBreathe Song
- Deonna TroxelBeing a Woman
2023
Cella BlackPeace
2022
Been There Done ThatHeartsick
Achievements
Legacy Award+
Honors a lasting impact on music through lifelong achievements, contributions and influence spanning many years.
Submit to this category ↗Lifetime Achievement Award+
Celebrates a distinguished career, enduring contributions and a lifetime of excellence in music.
Submit to this category ↗T1 Performer of the Year+
Celebrates exceptional talent and impact from a performer associated with T1 Entertainment.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
World Impact Award+
Honors an individual or group whose influence and contributions to music extend beyond their local area.
Submit to this category ↗Iowa Summer Jam Performance of the Year+
Recognizes outstanding stage presence, audience engagement and overall impact at Iowa Summer Jam.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2025
Zeus Rebel Waters
Other nominees · 2025 (5)
- Siz B.
- YaBoiBiggJoey
- Grave Corps
- Danielx and Co.
- Chisongwriter
2023
ChiSongWriter
Other nominees · 2023 (4)
- Zach Mango
- Tevin & Alisabeth Von Presley
- Nate aka Nasty & Grace
- Zeus Rebel Waters
Event of the Year+
Honors outstanding organization, audience engagement and overall impact at a music event.
Submit to this category ↗Previous winners
2024
Manson's Crash My CraterBest Country Event
A Critical Experience 333Best Hip-Hop Event
Big Bang Foundation Award+
Recognizes contributions to the community through the Big Bang Foundation Award.
Submit to this category ↗THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MUSIC
Meet the Current Champions
2025 / WINNER
Single — “Ovation”
Klazik
View profile ↗2025 / WINNER
Video — “Hellfire Boulevard”
Grave Corps
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERAlbum (Contemporary) — “The Prestige”
Draft Pick
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERAlbum (Traditional) — “A Garden to Keep”
Yote
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERRock Band
Grave Corps
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERCountry Artist
Katie and the Honky Tonks
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERHip-Hop Artist
EJ Swavv
View profile ↗DJ
Bo Diddley
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERPop Artist
Tevin Jones
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERRnB Artist
Entre Luché
View profile ↗
2025 / WINNERPhotographer
JMR Images
View profile ↗Videographer
Twenty Twenty Vizions
View profile ↗Help Iowa grow.
Become a Sponsor ↗Support the people behind the sound. Sponsorships, donations and community partnerships help make the celebration possible.
YOUR QUESTIONS. ANSWERED.
Before your next big moment.
From your first submission to the awards stage, find the information you need to take your next step.
Start your submissionWhat are the Iowa Music Awards?
The Iowa Music Awards recognize the artists, bands and creative professionals shaping Iowa’s music community. Founded by Antonio “Tone Da Boss” Chalmers, the celebration is presented by T1 Entertainment and the Big Bang Foundation.
What is the current release eligibility window?
The current consideration cycle covers releases from September 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026. Review the submission terms and the requirements for your chosen category before entering.
How do I submit my work?
Choose a category and begin the short submission form. Follow the next steps on the submission page and provide your work links, artist details and supporting material. Keep your links accessible so the team can review your entry.
Does a submission guarantee a nomination or win?
No. A submission puts your work forward for consideration. Submission, nomination and winning are separate stages; a paid entry does not guarantee an award.
What if my music does not fit an existing category?
Select Other on the submission form and describe the category that fits your work. The team reviews proposed categories; categories may be combined or split based on participation.
Where can I find past winners and photographs?
Visit Winners for the annual archive, nominees and artist profiles. Photo galleries are organized by year, with photographer credits and enlarged viewing.
How can I sponsor or get involved?
Use the sponsorship inquiry page to discuss partnerships, in-kind support and donations. You can also contact the team about volunteering, press or Academy participation.