By Musicians, for musicianS
Heartland Music Awards is a new regional awards event created to celebrate the independent artists of the heartland, where we recognize the songsmiths and the road warriors who keep our music scene thriving, building their careers through grit, live shows, and authentic connection.
Built by musicians, for musicians, at Heartland Music Awards all nominees and winners are chosen by fellow artists. Our mission is to shine a spotlight on our regional talent and their hard work and true artistry, while coming together to connect and strengthen our musical community.
Not only does Heartland Music Awards provide an opportunity to honor our regional musicians, it also awards the fans who fuel us with their support and their ability to know talent when they hear it, regardless of popularity. We also honor the venue owners, event coordinators, and radio personalites who work behind the scenes to give us stages and opportunities to share our music, entertain, and connect.
Your dedication and creativity are appreciated. Join us as we celebrate you, your fellow artists, and folks who help to support and bring music to the heartland.
Sincerely,
Savanna Chestnut
HMA Founder
ADDitional FActs & INfo
- The HMAs are not completely exclusive to the Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Missouri region. If an artist from an outside state is nominated and they have performed in our region recently, they will absolutely be included on the final voting ballot.
- Nominations and final votes can be submitted by MUSICIANS ONLY
- Nominations are only submitted here on this site
- There is a $10 fee to submit nominations. This fee goes towards securing a venue and the “Windys” ( HMA trophies )
- Nominees will be announced in early August
- Final voting will take place on the night of the event
Awards Event Details
The first annual Heartland Music Awards event will be held on Sunday, November 8th of 2026 in Emporia Kansas at The Granada Theater at 7pm. Tickets are not required to attend.
More details coming soon.