The annual celebration of independent music talent, last night (7 November) dreamy indie rocker aleksiah owned the South Australian Music Awards winning four awards.
Staged at the Dom Polski Centre as part of MusicSA's Good Music Month, it was a glittering evening showcasing the immense depth and diversity of artistry and ability of the state's finest music practitioners.Recently revealed as an Unearthed Artist Of The Year finalist at the 2024 J Awards, aleksiah secured the Best New Artist, Best Solo Artist, the Emily Burrows Award, and Most Popular Pop Artist gongs.
"This is the first time I have ever won anything, and it is extremely exciting to be recognised alongside so many incredible South Australian artists that I hold in extremely high regard," aleksiah says.
"I had the best team working with me on my EP ['Who Are You When You're Not Performing?'] that came out in June, and none of this would be possible without the amazing support of the talented people behind me.
"2024 has been a big year for me, with lots of celebrations and challenges as well. Being acknowledged has made all of those challenges I've faced this year so worth it and I'm so grateful to have won at the South Australian Music Awards, especially amongst so many talented artists, many of whom I call my friends. It's an honour to be recognised for simply doing what I love, making music."
Other multiple winners last night were indie rockers Swapmeet, who scored Best Song for 'Ceiling Fan', along with Best Release for their EP 'Oxalis' (that features 'Ceiling Fan'). Punk-rock duo Teenage Joans captured Best Group, to go with their People's Choice Award for Most Popular Punk Artist.
While Electric Fields received Best Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Artist and DEM MOB returned to the winner's circle after last year's award haul, taking home Best Regional Artist.
Australian artist Guy Sebastion, who grew up in Adelaide spending most of his teenage years in SA, was inducted into the South Australian Music Hall of Fame. Guy graciously accepted the honour, acknowledging his strong South Australian roots and the state's importance in developing his career, while also treating the audience to a memorable live performance.
Other live performances on the night included a sweat-inducing opening set from West Thebarton (who won Most Popular Rock Artist), along with mesmerising sets from both My Cherie and Sons Of Zöku (who won Most Popular Experimental or Art Music Artist).
"This year's South Australian Music Awards really showcased the incredible depth and diversity of talent within our state over the past year," MusicSA CEO Christine Schloithe says.
"From emerging artists to established favourites, all nominees and winners represented the passion and resilience of South Australia's independent music sector and it's inspiring to see all the award winners receive the recognition they deserve."
Minister for Arts Andrea Michaels MP said the Malinauskas Government was proud to celebrate another successful year of South Australian music. "Congratulations to the incredible SA Music Awards winners and finalists for 2024.
"All of you have made an important contribution to South Australian music this year and it's wonderful to celebrate your achievements. As Australia's only UNESCO City of Music, Malinauskas Government is committed to supporting our state's incredible musicians and growing the South Australian music sector for the future."
