2014 Chicago Music Awards

The best and brightest in Chicago’s music world were out in full force this past Sunday night for the 33rd annual Chicago Music Awards.  The Windy City carved a permanent place in music as far back as the 78 record, Chess Records, Curtis Mayfield & the Impressions through the present day with Common, Jennifer Hudson and Kanye West. Chicago’s musical roots run long, deep and wide.  Since 1981, the Chicago Music Awards has honored Chicago’s own established and emerging artists from R&B, jazz, blues, country and other genres of music.  This unique event also celebrates contributions to Chicago’s richly diverse musical heritage recognizing producers, songwriters, DJs, radio stations and other amalgamated industries that support artists.

Interestingly enough the Chicago Music Awards (CMA’s) continue to pay homage to the architects of Chi-town Soul such as The Chi-Lites Marshall Thompson and industry vet Gus Redmond aka “the man behind the music.” In today’s musical landscape, anyone who can sell units and chart new artists with minimal airplay is truly worthy of the CMA’s Award of Honor. Redmond’s company, Music Quest, boasts three 2014 CMA winners.  A few months ago, The Urban Buzz introduced teen singer Yemi Marie and predicted a bright future for her.  The Urban Buzz proudly “toots our horn.” Young Yemi took home the 2014 CMA Producer’s Award for Most Promising Entertainer, which was bestowed upon Kanye West a few short years ago. WVAZ (V-103) received the award for Best Radio Station. Congratulations to all.

Previous CMA recipients and nominees include Chaka Khan, Jennifer Hudson, Common, Syleena Johnson, Buddy Guy and the legendary Mavis Staples. By the way, there were no R. Kelly sightings at the CMA’s.

Mavis Staples