Since 2000, the Amadeus Austrian Music Award has been presented – back then, it was awarded to big names like DJ Ötzi, Kurt Ostbahn, or Die Fantastischen Vier. 25 years later, not only has the local music scene evolved, but the award itself has also found its permanent place. "Everyone knows it," explained Franz Pleterski, president of the organizing IFPI Austria, emphasizing: "The Amadeus was and is indispensable."

Ceremony on March 7: Bibiza with Four Nominations

This year's ceremony will take place on March 7 at the Vienna Marx Halle and will be hosted by Conchita Wurst and Andi Knoll. The Viennese musician Bibiza is the favorite, with four nominations, including in the category "Album of the Year" with Bis einer weint. Rian, Wanda, and Folkshilfe also have good chances with three nominations each. In total, awards will be given in 14 categories.

It is already confirmed that Die Seer will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The FM4 Award goes to newcomer Sodl.

New Location and High-Caliber Show Program

For the anniversary, IFPI President Pleterski promises a particularly glamorous event: "We want to celebrate the brand with a special Amadeus." The new location in the Marx Halle offers space for twice as many guests as before. Additionally, a varied show program will be offered, including performances by Pizzera & Jaus, Josh., Aut of Orda, Rian, Oska, and Anna Buchegger.

For those who cannot be there in person, ORF 1 will broadcast the event from 9:35 PM, including insights from the Red Carpet.

The Transformation of the Amadeus

In the past 25 years, the Amadeus has changed multiple times. Originally, international artists were also awarded, but today the prize focuses exclusively on the Austrian music scene. Pleterski emphasizes that they are constantly evolving: "The Amadeus must also change. We want to keep up with the times and listen to feedback from the industry."

Criticism and discussions are not new. In 2014, artists like HVOB caused a stir when they rejected their nominations and criticized the prize for being too commercialized. In 2019, Anja Plaschg, also known as Soap&Skin, declined to participate after being nominated in the same category as Andreas Gabalier.

Looking to the Future

How the Amadeus will continue to evolve in the coming years remains open. "We have to evaluate every year anew whether our concept still fits," says Pleterski. It is important that the artists are at the center. The nomination process, which is based one-third on sales figures, a panel of experts, and public voting, has proven itself.

Another concern is the promotion of diversity in the music scene. The IFPI has launched a Gender & Diversity initiative to give marginalized artists more visibility. "We want to offer a platform to people who may not be as visible," says Pleterski.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.