Showcasing the growth and resilience of Indigenous music, this year's NIMA's will be streaming to audiences online and broadcast on NITV, ensuring the successes of First Nations artists are celebrated following one of the toughest years for the industry.
The much-loved Warumpi Band will be honoured by an all-star collaboration featuring songwriter Neil Murray, Christine Anu and Midnight Oil's Jim Moginie and Rob Hirst.
Torres Strait Island artist Mau Power, indie star Thelma Plum and triple j Unearthed competition winner JK-47 will round out the acts performing live from Larrakia Country.
Notable comedy stars Elaine Crombie (Top Of The Lake, Top End Wedding, Black Comedy) and Steven Oliver (Faboriginal, A Chance Affair, Black Comedy) will co-host the evening and also feature live crosses during the night with Electric Fields, Jessica Mauboy and Mitch Tambo who are all set to make appearances.
Broadcast on NITV, Double J, National Indigenous Radio Service and across social media, the awards will go live at 7pm AEST on Saturday, 8 August.
Steven Oliver will co-host the 2020 NIMAs with Elaine Crombie Source: NITV/Various
NIMA's Creative Director Ben Graetz said in a media release that this year's virtual format will allow for a wider range of audience and a more interactive experience with fans.
"What makes this year so exciting, is that we are able to involve and showcase many more of our First Nation artists and musicians through the virtual platform. Also to be able to connect regionally and remotely is extremely exciting," he said.
In a move towards more self-determination, for the first time, the awards show will be produced by a 100 per cent First Nations' camera crew led by a majority First Nations production.
Woorabinda artist Miiesha's debut album Nyaaringu has been nominated for Album of the Year. The album was also featured as Album of the Week on Triple J. Source: Supplied by Danyal Syed
In a prepared statement, SBS Head of Indigenous Content and NITV Channel Manager, Tanya Orman, said that NITV has always held a special spot for the NIMAs on its events calendar.
"In a year that has been particularly challenging, we can’t wait to celebrate the biggest and brightest talents in the First Nations music community and share the experience Australia wide."
The finalists this year's NIMA's are:
Source: NITV
Source: NITV
Source: NITV
Source: NITV
Source: NITV
Source: NITV
Source: NITV
The 2020 National Indigenous Music Awards broadcasts on NITV (Ch. 34) Saturday, 8 August at 7.00pm and streaming live on . Join the action #NIMA2020
