The 2026 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards have just started at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga, TN. Hosted by Sam Bush and Sierra Hull, the show will present trophies in 18 categories to top artists, songwriters, and players in bluegrass music, chosen by their professional peers in the International Bluegrass Music Association.
As we have in years past, we will post each winner as they are announced, so check back throughout the evening to see all the winners.
Best of luck to all the nominees!
New Artist Of The Year – Mason Via
Guitar Player of the Year – Cody Kilby
Gospel Recording Of The Year – Some Day – Blue Highway (artist); Olive Stockton/Tim Stafford (writers); Blue Highway/Dan Boner (producers); Rounder Records (label)
Banjo Player of the Year – Kristin Scott Benson
Female Vocalist Of The Year – Jaelee Roberts
Collaborative Recording of the Year – Broken Angels – The Grascals and Dolly Parton (artists); Dolly Parton/Jamie Johnson (writers); Kent Wells (producer); Billy Blue Records (label)
Bass Player of the Year – Mike Bub
Instrumental Recordings of the Year – Big Daddy Rabbit – Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper (Feat. Nathan Livers) (artist); Nathan Livers (writer); Michael Cleveland (producer); Yeah Man Records (label)
Vocal Group of the Year – Authentic Unlimited
Mandolin Player of the Year – Sierra Hull
