Steve Martin, Dan Tyminski & more take home International Bluegrass Music Awards
The 20th International Bluegrass Music Awards in Nashville provided memorable moments that will endure on Oct. 1, thanks to performers and entertainers such as comedian/actor Steve Martin, who scored his first-ever IBMA wins.
Hosted by Kath Mattea & Hot Rize, the 2009 IBMA officially welcomed Martin to the bluegrass fold by presenting him with two industry awards—one for Best Liner Notes and one for Best Graphic Design for his album, The Crow—and welcoming him to the historic Ryman Auditorium stage to perform an original tune, “Saga of the Wild West,” backed by the Steep Canyon Rangers, winner of the 2006 IBMA Emerging Artists.
Those in attendance also were thrilled to see The SteelDrivers recognized as Emerging Artists of the Year, after two years of rising popularity, award nominations and national television appearances.
While grateful for nominations from the Country Music Assocation, the Americana Music Association and the Grammys in 2008-09, the SteelDrivers jokingly pointed out that they hadn’t won anything until now—and thanked the membership of IBMA profusely for turning their “losing streak” around.
To see the full story of artist highlights, as well as view a comprehensive list of all the winners, by catetory, from this year’s IBMA event, please click here.