SoundMerch Australian Music Prize Reveals First Album Nominations
The first three albums have been shortlisted for the SoundMerch Australian Music Prize (AMP), with some of this year’s best local releases competing for the title and its $50,000 cash prize.
Middle Kids, Tkay Maidza, and Emma Donovan are among the contenders for what’s considered Australia’s most prestigious music award, with more nominations to come.
Now in its 20th year, the prize highlights albums released between Oct. 28, 2023, and Oct. 25, 2024. A panel of music industry experts, including artists, music retailers, and journalists, will select 50 nominated albums from over 500 eligible releases.
Nominations will continue to be announced until early November. The shortlist of the nine best albums will be revealed in late November, with the winner announced in early December.
Middle Kids
“We are well pleased to have Faith Crisis Pt 1 longlisted for the Australian Music Prize this year. It is a special album to us and it sits alongside other albums we deeply adore,” says Middle Kids.
“Thank you to the people for nominating Sweet Justice! This album coming out was a big moment for me in my journey and career and it holds a special place in my heart – this is just a bonus, thank you,” comments Tkay Maidza.
“So humbled to receive this nomination for my new solo album. I feel really lucky to be alongside great musicians – and huge thanks to AMP for continuing to support and listen,” adds Emma Donovan.
Emma Donovan
Melbourne post-punk band RVG claimed the prize in 2023 for their third album Brain Worms, beating shortlisted artists including 2021 winner Genesis Owusu and Troye Sivan.
Previously, Northern Territory rockers King Stingray earned the prestigious prize for their acclaimed self-titled debut album, which debuted at No. 6 on the ARIA Albums Chart.
The cash prize, which increases from $30,000 to $50,000, is donated by Soundmerch, the by AMP’s naming rights sponsor for a fifth year.
20th Soundmerch AMP Shortlist (First Three Albums)
Middle Kids – Faith Crisis Pt 1
Tkay Maidza – Sweet Justice
Emma Donovan – Til My Song Is Done