Manitoba Talent Picks Up Indigenous Music Awards

Manitoba talent was well-represented at this year's Indigenous Music Awards, which changed their name from the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards earlier this year. The hardware was handed out on September 11 at the 10th annual gala awards show at the MTS Centre and the invite-only Ohshkii Awards.

Winnipeg-based songwriter/musician Jason Burnstick and British Columbia's Nadine L'Hirondelle won in the Best Folk/Acoustic CD category for their recent collaboration, Wrapped in Daisies. 

NCI FM's popular National Aboriginal Music Countdown was named Best Indigenous Music Radio Station/Program. 

Acclaimed hip hop act Hellnback was honoured with this year's Ka-Kee-Nee Konee Pewonee Okimow, which recognizes emerging talent.

Former Winnipegger Drezus, who now calls Saskatoon home, was a big winner at this year's awards, picking up hardware for Indigenous Entertainer of the Year, Best Rap/Hip Hip CD, Best Music Video, and Best Producer/Engineer.

Manitoba artists were nominated for 14 Indigenous Music Awards this year. The IMAs take place during the annual Manito Ahbee festival, which runs September 9-13. Now in its 10th year, Manito Ahbee features a variety of events including an Indigenous Marketplace and Trade Show, International Competition Pow Wow, and an education conference. 

For a complete list of 2015 IMA winners, please visit indigenousmusicawards.ca