News May 16, 2022

The National Indigenous Music Awards are Returning to Darwin

The National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAs) are returning to Darwin in 2022.

One of the most important events in Australian music is reclaiming its rightful place on Larrakia Country at Darwin’s iconic Amphitheater on August 6th.

After two difficult years of false starts and Zoom calls, the NIMAs will get to celebrate its 14th birthday in style this year. The wider Australian music community will be welcomed back to its home under the stars, for a long overdue celebration of Indigenous music.

As the preeminent engagement on the First Nations music calendar, the NIMAs has provided a vital platform for the industry’s biggest artists, as well as paying respects to those who have paved the way for the new breed of talent.

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Thelma Plum will be performing at the event, set to play hits from her debut album, 2019’s Better in Blak. Darwin’s own indie rock band King Stingray will also be appearing, with much more live music set to be included on the night.

“We are so excited to have the NIMAs back in real life, “NIMA Creative Director Ben Graetz says. “The awards have always been a special place to connect with mob and artists to get together to celebrate their artistry and culture.

The last two years of virtual events have been challenging but it has also allowed us to get to people far and wide, across Australia and beyond, but getting back to country and being together to celebrate music will be a true homecoming for our industry.”

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased via the Darwin Festival website. Nominations are also open for First Nations releases from the past 12 months, with artists, industry and the general public allowed to put forward their selections from the past year here.