The Evolution and Future of the Choice Music Prize
A Look Back at the Origin Story
Imagine this. May 2005. Two men, Dave Reid, a music manager and promoter, and myself—a journalist writing for The Irish Times—are engrossed in conversation upstairs at the Odessa, a Dublin city-centre establishment. We weren’t drinking, but our minds buzzed with ideas. Dave had an idea for an Irish album prize, and after a few years of being ignored, now we were here. We became the driving force behind what would become the RTÉ Choice Music Prize.
Our goal was clear: create an award that would celebrate, profile, and promote Irish albums. We needed a timeframe that made sense for the industry—sort of a shoulder season of music, following the Christmas hangover.
Pro Tip: For any event to sustain, timing, timing, and branded transparency is essential. We started with a prize because it helps in media promo and also during the month of February/March it was media friendly.
The Simplicity Behind the Prize
So, we set out to make the award different. It was about transparency, simplicity, and specializing in Irish talent. The jury was made up of a dozen media professionals who would vote for the best album of the year. The live event would take place in Vicar Street, one of Dublin’s premier venues. We had our initial team, and we were ready to roll.
The Choice Music Prize Over the Years: A Timeline of Success
| Year | Winning Album | Notable Performances |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 2006 – Cathy Davey | Cathy Davey, Jape |
| 2007 | 2007 – Messiah J and The Expert | Messiah J and The Expert, Calexico |
| 2010 | 2010 – Hammond | Lissie, Anatomy |
| 2015 | 2015 – Soak | Soak, Jape |
| 2022 | 2022 – CMAT | CMAT, GillaBan |
| 2023 | 2023 – Lankum | CMAT, Jape |
Why It’s Still Going Strong
The longevity of the Choice Music Prize can be attributed to two key factors:
-
Simplicity: The main criteria for winning the prize remains the same: an album released in a calendar year which a group of 12 music media pros consider to be the best in that 12-month period. There might be regulations, rules and categories over the past two decades, still simplicity remains the key ingredient.
- Acts Participation: The artists and bands have always supported the event, even if it takes them time to see the benefits. Nomination itself provides an opportunity for more engagements, media interviews, radio sessions and music festival.
And there is that amazing energy associated with these acts hanging out in their famous Dublin venue and officiating their art, enjoy the moment.
The Power of Recognition
Every year, multiple artists step up to perform at Dublin’s Vicar Street. Even those who don’t win see a boost in their profiles, fanbases, and media attention. Our events represent far more than just an award show; they’re a celebration of Irish music.
Remembering the Pillars
We’re grateful to everyone who has contributed to the Choice Music Prize. They have seen the growth of this event and how it expanded to multiple awards including for radio stations, Irish Hip Hop and many more. We’re deeply honored to have individuals like judges Tony Fenton, Nick Kelly and RTÉ’s Brian Geraghty.
Interactive Section: Did you Know?
- *Tony Fenton has been the longest active partner for the Prize. He’s a man of top notch honest opinions and won’t hold any opinion back.]
- Nick Kelly and Brian Geraghty, the folks who helped us reached the people who make the event famous
On March 6th, eight of the 10 nominated acts will grace the Vicar Street in Dublin, performing live stage and broadcasting it on telly and 2fm.
Learn More and What’s Next
The Choice Music Prize is a testament to what a simple, well-organised idea can achieve. If you’re a fan of Irish music, mark this date on your calendar every year. Look out for the shortlist and exciting performances coming up. The moral?
Keep It Simple!
Q&A: The Choice Music Prize
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How is the winner chosen?
The winner is chosen by a panel of 12 music media professionals who vote for the best album released in the calendar year. -
What does the prize mean for the artists?
Recognition like this makes a significant impact for bands and solo artists around the industry from the community, media attention’s standpoint. - Who decides on the rules and regulations?
The forum and criteria for the prize have been evolving over the years. We bring experts and professionals for their input.
Reader Engagement:
Let us know in the comments what your favorite Choice Music Prize moment or performance has been. Can you remember listening to any winners albums?
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