Inaugural NSW Music Prize Unveils 15 Finalists for $160K Awards

The inaugural New South Wales (NSW) Music Prize has unveiled its finalists, spotlighting 15 of the state's most exciting musical acts across three categories with a total prize pool of A$160,000. The main NSW Music Prize, carrying an A$80,000 award, honors the local artist or act whose release has made the most significant impact, with nominees including Ninajirachi, BARKAA, 3%, RÜFÜS DU SOL, and Onefour. Additional categories are the NSW First Nations Music Prize and the NSW Breakthrough Artist of the Year, each offering A$40,000 and recognizing impactful releases by First Nations artists and emerging talents, respectively. The prize, created by the Minns Labor Government and delivered by Sound NSW, aims to celebrate and financially support NSW musicians amidst global competition, with winners to be announced at a November 24 ceremony at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art. Industry panels comprising artists, managers, media, and cultural advocates selected the finalists, reflecting a diverse array of genres from electronic and hip hop to indie and punk, with some nominees already achieving international recognition and significant streaming success. Officials emphasize the importance of backing local talent to counteract the dominance of algorithm-driven global music trends and foster the next generation of Australian stars.