NIMAs 2020 performers include Thelma Plum, Miiesha and more

The 2020 edition of the National Indigenous Music Awards is set to take place in Larrakia Country, Darwin, and now organisers have revealed a fantastic lineup of rising and experienced acts who’ll descend on the ceremony to perform.

A stack of rising stars lead the bill, with the likes of Gamilaraay singer Thelma Plum, Torres Strait Island R&B star Miiesha, Numbulwar band Mambali and triple j Unearthed winners JK-47 all set to perform live at the ceremony in Brisbane.

There will also be live crosses to Jessica Mauboy, Mitch Tambo and Electric Fields over the course of the evening.

A special tribute performance will take place, with Christine Anu, Mau Power, Jim Moginie, Rob Hurst and Neil Murray to perform ‘My Island Home’ in recognition of the Warumpi Band.

Experienced legends in the form of Gumbaynggirr and Yamatji singer Emma Donovan and Archie Roach will also take to the stage.

The 2020 NIMAs are to be broadcast on National Indigenous Television (NITV), as well as Double J, National Indigenous Radio Service, Facebook, Youtube and Twitter, with all the action kicking off at 7pm AEST on August 8.

Organisers have announced that the awards, which are produced in partnership with NITV, will be hoested by Elaine Crombie and Steven Oliver.

Creative director Ben Graetz has promised a special night celebrating Indigenous music, and the artists who’ll take centre stage to provide inspiration as part of the nation’s response to COVID-19. There’ll be special guests, performances, a hall of fame induction and more surprises.

“What makes this year so exciting, is that we are able to involve and showcase many more of our First Nation artists and musicians through the virtual platform. Also to be able to connect regionally and remotely is extremely exciting,” said Graetz.

The 2020 NIMAs will feature a 100% First Nations camera crew for the production for the first time, plus a mahority First nations production crew, moving towards the path of self-determination.

“Here at NITV, the NIMAs always hold a special spot on our events calendar,” added head of Indigenous content at SBS and NITV channel manager.

In a year that has been particularly challenging, we can’t wait to celebrate the biggest and brightest talents in the First Nations music community and share the experience Australia wide.”

Miiesha and Baker Boy led the recent announcement of finalists, nabbing three nominations each.

The 2020 NIMAs playlist can be streamed on Apple Music & Spotify ahead of the ceremony.