Specsavers Scottish Music Awards returns to The Barrowland Ballroom for 2024
With Scottish legends Lulu and Travis, Dundee's own Kyle Falconer and rising Scots star Calum Bowie among the first winners to be announced.
Article Source: Specsavers Scottish Music Awards
Last Updated: 25 September 2024 13:45
The legendary Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow will once again be the stage for the highly anticipated Specsavers Scottish Music Awards on Saturday November 2nd, 2024. This year's ceremony promises to be a star-studded celebration of Scottish music, generating essential support for music therapy charity Nordoff and Robbins.
In its fourth year at the Barrowland Ballroom, the awards ceremony will support Nordoff and Robbins to deliver transformational music therapy sessions, and help people break through the barriers caused by life-limiting illness, disability and social isolation in Scotland.
In 26 years, over £1 million has been generously donated through the event which directly contributes to the training of music therapists in Scotland and research into the impact of music therapy on wellbeing.
Sandra Schembri, CEO, Nordoff and Robbins, said: “We can’t wait for the 26th annual Scottish Music Awards in aid of Nordoff and Robbins. This event is vital in helping us to raise funds and achieve our mission of using the power of music to create space for vulnerable people to express themselves and find connection in society. Scotland's music scene is vibrant and inspiring, and we're grateful for the incredible talent and generosity of our artists and industry professionals. Together, we're continuing to make a positive impact on many lives.”
Jennifer Stephenson, Specsavers’ Scottish divisional chair, said: “Specsavers is proud to be the headline sponsor of the Scottish Music Awards for a sixth consecutive year.
“We can’t wait to see Scotland’s music industry come together for another show-stopping celebration that will raise funds for Nordoff and Robbins.
“Music therapy supports positive change and allows those in need to build confidence and improve social wellbeing. Helping people reach their full potential through their senses closely reflects the work we do at Specsavers through our optical and audiology work.
“We look forward to the event returning to Glasgow’s iconic Barrowland Ballroom for what is sure to be another spectacular evening of music and fundraising.”
In alphabetical order, the first announced winners for this year’s Specsavers Scottish Music Awards include:
Berkeley 2 Studios – Guitar Guitar Music Industry Award
Calum Bowie – Beavertown’s Breakthrough Award
Kyle Falconer – King Tuts’ Song Writing Award
LuLu – Scottish Icon Award sponsored by Rox
Travis – Outstanding Achievement Award sponsored by the Sir Reo Stakis Foundation
Specsavers Scottish Music Awards has a long history of honouring some of the biggest and best names in Scottish music – a theme set to continue this year with one of Scotland's most famous pop-exports, Lulu, taking home the Scottish Icon Award sponsored by Rox.
Having earned critical acclaim around the world, and with music that continues to inspire and influence artists today, Lulu said: “To be recognized as a Scottish icon is truly humbling. I've been incredibly fortunate to have had a 60-year career that has taken me all over the world, but Scotland has always been my home. It's an honour to be celebrated in this way, especially for a charity that does such incredible work.”
Hailing from Banchory, Calum Bowie, shot to fame after posting a series of TikTok's singing out of his Edinburgh window and is now the recipient of the Beavertown Breakthrough Award. In just over a year, the 23-year-old has gone from playing empty venues to performing at Scotland’s biggest music festival, TRNSMT. Ahead of his appearance at the ceremony, he says: “I’m genuinely shocked to be winning the Breakthrough Award, it’s a massive honour when you know who’s won it before and gone on to great things. So many of the previous winners inspired me to make music in the first place, like Emeli Sande, who was the first singer from my part of the world I saw go on to have global success. Amy Macdonald’s sound and pride in being Scottish were totally inspiring, I absolutely loved Nina Nesbitt from her first album onwards, Paolo was always in the air when I was growing up and Lewis Capaldi proved that you can do this job absolutely in your own way. To even be mentioned in the same sentence as them blows my mind and I hope I can live up to the legacy the Breakthrough Award has created. To be part of the show at the Barrowlands, which is the ultimate venue for every Scottish musician, is a dream come true and I can’t wait to help raise a ton of money to support the incredible work of Nordoff and Robbins.”
Having released their 10th studio album - and delighted audiences with their secret festival set at TRNSMT - Glasgow icons Travis are being presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award sponsored by the Sir Reo Stakis Foundation. As the band continues to move from strength to strength, Travis frontman Fran said:
“Nordoff and Robbins is close to the hearts of all in the musical community. As musicians, we all know the healing power of music. We see it at each show we play. Songs and melody are bookmarks in all of our lives. Nordoff and Robbins work with music therapy has changed the lives of so many people. We are humbled to be chosen by them as the recipients of this year’s Outstanding Achievement award. Please go to www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk to learn about the amazing work they do and see if you can lend a hand.”
A special award, the Guitar Guitar Music Industry Award will be awarded to Berkeley 2 Studios, or more importantly, the man who founded the UK’s largest iconic rehearsal studio, Steve Cheyne. A real Scottish Music Industry legend, Steve dedicated his life into making Berkeley the renowned rehearsal space it is today. From Beyonce to Iggy Pop to Glasgow’s own Lewis Capaldi, anyone who is anyone in the Music Scene has had the pleasure of working with Steve and so it is hugely appropriate that he is honoured amongst many of those who knew him.
Aiden Gallagher who is continuing Steve’s legacy in running Berkeley 2 Studios said: “Steve made a rehearsal studio into a community, he made it his business to care for people, to have that recognised will do his memory a great honour - as long as the door to Berkeley is open, Steve will still be with us.”
Dundee Rocker and The View frontman, Kyle Falconer, will have his songwriting talents recognised with a King Tut’s Songwriting Award. Kyle's raw and often personal lyrics have resonated with fans worldwide both in The View and as a solo artist. He’s now sharing his talents by penning songs for his peers, as well as running songwriting camps from his own retreat, La Sierra Casa.
Off the back of his win, Kyle said: “To be given this songwriting award means a lot to me. Being recognised for songwriting gives me a very proud moment in front of my family and the people who have been with me through all the highs and lows. There have been many highs and many lows, but music has given me so many opportunities that I never would have had if I didn’t pick up a guitar and start writing my first song back in the day.
Nordoff and Robbins work helping people via musical therapy is hugely on par with my own realisation around the powers of music. Giving people the tools to express themselves can lead to so much self-discovery. I know that from running my own music camp in Spain.”
Award-winning Fife broadcaster Edith Bowman returns as host, welcoming some of the biggest names in Scottish music alongside rising talent, all in the name of raising funds for the UK’s largest independent music therapy charity.
Edith Bowman said: “It is a genuine honour to be asked back host the Scottish Music Awards all in aid of the wonderful Nordoff and Robbins. Music can mean so much to people, for very different reasons, but never underestimate its power. That can be seen so clearly in the work that Nordoff and Robbins do, and through the work their music therapist do, they provide so many people with a chance to communicate, to smile, to live a better life.”
Donald C MacLeod MBE, Scottish Fundraising Chairman for Nordoff and Robbins added: “For 26 years, the Scottish Music Awards have been a beacon of celebration for our nation's music industry. This prestigious event continues to honour the exceptional talent and dedication of our musicians, songwriters, and artists who enrich our rich heritage.
As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming awards ceremony, let's take a moment to reflect on the incredible power of music to break down barriers and create a space for expression and connection. Organisations like Nordoff and Robbins are at the forefront of harnessing this power, providing vital therapy sessions to individuals of all ages.
We’ve been able to offer over 37,000 therapy sessions across Scotland in the past year alone. As the need for these life-changing services grows, we look forward to raising even more money to help continue to fund this amazing organisation.”
Funds raised on the night via online donations, live auctions and ticket sales are a vital part of the charity’s ability to provide music therapists and sessions to those who need it most. With more acts to be announced over the coming weeks, tickets are available to purchase via Simon Foy at simon.foy@nordoff-robbins.org.uk.
Sponsored Links
Latest Stirling News
Countdown begins: The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run returns to Glasgow in October
Scotland's greatest running event, the AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, will return to Glasgow on Sunday 5th October and they want everyone to 'Be Your Greatest'.
READ MORE
BTS fans take the spotlight in latest K Pop documentary heading to Vue
BTS Army: Forever We Are Young, a brand-new documentary celebrating the fans that helped catapult 21st century pop icons BTS into global stardom comes to Vue.
READ MORE
Plenty of summer family fun at Vue venues across Scotland
Family favourites and animated adventures are heading to the big screen this summer holiday at Vue venues across Scotland.
READ MORE
SAY Award opens submissions for eligible albums
Scotland’s national music prize – the Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award – has opened submissions for 2025’s £20,000 prize.
READ MORE
Innis & Gunn Joins Forces with Stirling Highland Games in a 3 Year Cultural Celebration
The Stirling Highland Games has proudly announced a new three-year partnership with one of Scotland’s most iconic brewing brands, Innis & Gunn.
READ MORE
Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres
This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.
READ MORE
FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July
Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!
READ MORE
Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show
The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!
READ MORE
July events at Dobbies Garden Centres
Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!
READ MORE
Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition
Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.
READ MORE
Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!
Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!
READ MORE
25th year of Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway
Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway today, kick-starting nine days of dance performances, film screenings, visual art and photography exhibitions and community events across the country.
READ MORE
Exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland
Tickets are on sale for an exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland, with fans in for an extra special treat to take home.
READ MORE
Acclaimed debut Only Here, Only Now from Tom Newlands chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month in Scotland
The paperback edition of Only Here, Only Now by Tom Newlands has just been released - and is already making waves.
READ MORE
Feedback sought on new Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling project
To mark Bike Week UK, people across Stirling are being encouraged to take part in a new survey that will help shape active travel in the area and support the shift to sustainable modes of transport.
READ MORE
Stirling BID team brighten up City Centre with Blooming Planters
Pollinator-friendly plants, funded and organised by Go Forth Stirling BID have added a welcome splash of colour across Stirling city centre.
READ MORE
Funding Boost for Charities at Scottish Building Society AGM
Scottish Building Society marked its Annual General Meeting (AGM) by announcing funding to support eight local charities and good causes across the country.
READ MORE
Classic car enthusiasts set to visit Loch Lomond Shores
Visitors are invited to come along and get up-close to some amazing cars, set against the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond, as part of a great day out.
READ MORE
Paws, play and heritage on parade
Bark by popular demand, the Gordon Setter Parade returns on Saturday 5th July as part of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair, held at the stunning Scone Palace.
READ MORE
Dobbies hosts brand new Fairy Garden Tea Party
Dobbies Garden Centres are inviting families across the UK along to its stores on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of June to spend a magical afternoon filled with fun activities and good food.
READ MORE
Stirling celebrates its rich history at the Walking of the Marches
Stirling’s rich history and heritage was celebrated at its annual Walking of the Marches, which dates back to at least the 12th century, on Saturday (31 May).
READ MORE
Have your say on plans for a sustainable transport system in Stirling
People will have the opportunity to shape a future transport system for Stirling that is fair, clean and affordable with the launch of a new consultation.
READ MORE
How to train your Dad in 4DX Cineworld enlists Gerard Butler
Cineworld is launching a brand new 4DX Father's Day gift experience, containing two 4DX tickets and ponchos, perfect for experiencing the new live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film.
READ MORE
Summer of Roses: Free gardening workshop at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a free Rose-themed Grow How workshop this June, sharing top tips for caring for this beloved flowering plant.
READ MORE
William Wallace Running Festival seeks Teams of Bravehearts
Teams of runners have the chance to race through Scotland’s most historic battlefields and stunning landscapes during an exciting new event - the William Wallace Running Festival.
READ MORE
Cheers to 30 years: Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now open
Scotland's longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 - and they want you to have your say!
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Unplugged is coming this weekend!
Loch Lomond Unplugged, our FREE showcase of talented buskers and singer/songwriters, is this weekend and we’re super excited to welcome great acts from across Scotland and beyond!
READ MORE
Restored Memorial to be unveiled in Stirling
Restored memorial to be unveiled in Stirling's old town cemetery to mark the 250th anniversary of the American War of Independence.
READ MORE
Dig into summer fun at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting children to come along to its free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club, taking place across the country this June.
READ MORE
Aldi to gift year supply of free beer to biggest beer lover in Scotland
Aldi Scotland is on the hunt for the nation's biggest beer lover, as it revamps its popular Best Home Bar Competition by expanding the criteria.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links