The Morning After...

The 18th IBMA Awards are history now and it was an exhilarating evening at the Opry House for many of the nominees who likely thought their chances were slim. It was a night for sentimental favorites, for influential artists who no doubt thought they might never see another crystal obelisk again. And for newcomers who were genuinely and pleasantly surprised that their time had already come. You can see all the victors listed here but I have to enthusiastically mention a few.

Tony Rice, Tony Trischka and Sam Bush, beloved masters of their respective instruments took their categories. Dale Ann Bradley finally claimed the Female Vocalist prize she'd earned long ago. And the cool and courageous Bradley Walker, who's stolen the hearts of fans everywhere over the last few years, stole the prestigious Male Vocalist of the Year trophy on his first try. It was also a big night for those Infamous Stringdusters who were voted Emerging Artists and also saw Fork In The Road win Song Of The Year and share Album Of The Year honors with J.D. Crowe and Lefty's Old Guitar. A rare tie.

The Grascals made it two in a row as Entertainers of the Year, Doyle Lawson added another car to his gospel train and also extended his six-year run as Vocal Group Of The Year. Rob Ickes brought his total of Dobro wins to an astounding nine and Missy Raines won her seventh upright bass title. Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper wrested the Instrumental Group title away from eight-time winners, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder. And he doubled his pleasure by capturing the distinction of Fiddle Player Of The Year.

Earlier in the day, Mike Auldridge or "Larry The Legend" from his Seldom Scene days was presented with a special Distinguished Service Award as a ruler of the resophonic. Chris Jones, already a successful bluegrass bandleader became Broadcaster Of The Year and Mark Newton's Hillbilly Hemingway scored a win for Don Bailey for Best Graphic Design. And congrats to John Lawless (remember when he played banjo for the Heights of Grass?) and Brance Gillihan for their Bluegrass Blog which has become a daily source of industry news...they became Print Media Persons Of The Year.

So as the celebrations continue down the hall at the Sugar Hill suite, I'd better fold my hand and get some z's to be fresh for my opening shift as FanFest emcee Friday morning...I get to bring on Cadillac Sky who continue to win my admiration for their dynamic energy and powerful songcrafting. And young mandolin whiz Sierra Hull too...she's really grown up.

Night all...TT