Chattanooga, September 19, 2025
News Summary
The city of Chattanooga welcomed the 36th Annual International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) World of Bluegrass Awards at Memorial Auditorium. The lively event featured performances from local musicians and was hosted by comedian Steve Martin and banjoist Alison Brown. Notable awards included Entertainer of the Year for Billy Strings and the induction of notable musicians into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame. The evening was a celebration of talent and community within the bluegrass genre.
Chattanooga Hosts 36th Annual International Bluegrass Music Association Awards Show
Chattanooga was the vibrant host for the 36th Annual International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) World of Bluegrass Awards held at Memorial Auditorium. The award show kicked off with a lively performance by local group East Nash Grass, setting a festive tone for the evening.
The awards ceremony was hosted by renowned comedian Steve Martin and acclaimed banjoist Alison Brown. Brown welcomed attendees and highlighted the excitement surrounding the new location in Chattanooga. The crowd responded enthusiastically to Martin’s humorous comment regarding the unique name of the city.
Main Highlights of the Evening
Martin and Brown, both of whom are celebrated figures in the bluegrass music community, were nominated as a duo for three awards, showcasing their continued prominence in the genre.
The evening’s festivities included the presentation of several major awards. Notably, Billy Strings was recognized as the Entertainer of the Year, reflecting his significant impact on the bluegrass scene. Additionally, the collaboration between Jason Carter and Michael Cleveland earned accolades for Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Collaborative Recording of the Year for their joint album “Carter & Cleveland.”
As a delightful addition, the audience sang “Happy Birthday” to Cleveland, whose birthday coincided with the event.
The Del McCoury Band entertained the crowd with a performance of “The Travelin’ Teardrop Blues,” creating a memorable atmosphere.
Additional Awards and Inductions
The evening also saw The Travelin’ McCourys being awarded Instrumental Group of the Year, while The Bluegrass Cardinals and Hot Rize were inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame. The legacy of influential African American guitarist Arnold Shultz was also honored with an induction.
The event concluded with a lively performance featuring various bluegrass artists, including Billy Strings, Del McCoury, and Alison Brown, drawing the night to a spirited close.
Complete List of Awards
- Vocal Group of the Year: Authentic Unlimited
- New Artist of the Year: Red Camel Collective
- Female Vocalist of the Year: Alison Krauss
- Male Vocalist of the Year: Greg Blake
- Fiddle Player of the Year: Maddie Denton
- Mandolin Player of the Year: Sierra Hull
- Guitar Player of the Year: Trey Hensley
- Resophonic Guitar Player of the Year: Justin Moses
- Banjo Player of the Year: Kristin Scott Benson
- Bass Player of the Year: Vickie Vaughn
- Music Video of the Year: “The Auctioneer” by The Kody Norris Show
Conclusion
The successful execution of this inaugural event in Chattanooga underscores the city’s strong involvement in the bluegrass community and the array of talent present in the genre.
FAQs
What was the purpose of the event held in Chattanooga?
The event was the 36th Annual International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) World of Bluegrass Awards show.
Who hosted the bluegrass awards show?
The awards show was hosted by comedian Steve Martin and banjoist Alison Brown.
What are some notable awards given during the evening?
Notable awards included Entertainer of the Year awarded to Billy Strings, and Album of the Year awarded to Jason Carter and Michael Cleveland for their album “Carter & Cleveland.”
Were any musicians inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame?
Yes, The Bluegrass Cardinals, Hot Rize, and Arnold Shultz were inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.
What performances were featured at the event?
Performances included the Del McCoury Band performing “The Travelin’ Teardrop Blues” and various bluegrass artists concluded the event.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 36th Annual IBMA World of Bluegrass Awards |
| Location | Memorial Auditorium, Chattanooga |
| Hosts | Steve Martin and Alison Brown |
| Notable Winner | Billy Strings – Entertainer of the Year |
| Album of the Year | Jason Carter & Michael Cleveland – “Carter & Cleveland” |
| Hall of Fame Inductees | The Bluegrass Cardinals, Hot Rize, Arnold Shultz |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga Welcomes IBMA World of Bluegrass Festival
Chattanooga Prepares for a Festive Fall with Upcoming Events
Chattanooga Welcomes the 36th Annual IBMA World of Bluegrass
Chattanooga Hosts IBMA Bluegrass Live Festival Without Sierra Ferrell
Chattanooga Prepares for the IBMA World of Bluegrass Festival
Chattanooga to Host IBMA World of Bluegrass Event
Chattanooga to Host Billy Strings for IBMA Business Conference
Chattanooga Hosts Inaugural IBMA World of Bluegrass Event
Chattanooga Unveils 2025-26 Broadway Season Lineup
Chattanooga’s Major Development Initiative to Revitalize East Chattanooga
Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Retired Chattanooga Fire Captain Takes Center Stage for IBMA Bluegrass Festival
- Wikipedia: Bluegrass Music
- Times Free Press: Sub Stars Hit the Red Carpet for Bluegrass Music
- Google Search: Bluegrass Music
- WDEF: Steve Martin and Allison Brown Host Chattanooga’s First IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bluegrass
- The Bluegrass Situation: IBMA World of Bluegrass Arrives in Chattanooga
- Google News: IBMA World of Bluegrass
- Live For Live Music: Billy Strings Welcomes Luke Black Chattanooga 9/17/25
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
