The Black Welsh Music Awards have quickly become a vital platform for showcasing the depth and diversity of talent across Wales. Photo: Shutterstock.
The inaugural awards celebrate the exceptional talent, creativity, and contributions of Black musicians and artists across Wales. As the first year of the Black Welsh Music Awards (BWMA), the event aims to spotlight a broad range of genres and emerging voices, recognising achievements in performance, production, songwriting, and more.
This year’s shortlist spans genres from Afrobeats to Gospel, R&B to Welsh-language music, showcasing the depth and diversity of Black Welsh artistry. You can view the full shortlist online.
Supporting emerging talent
Andy Warnock, MU Regional Organiser for Wales and South West England, will also be attending the ceremony to present the Best New Artist Award—an important category recognising fresh talent in the Welsh music scene.
Andy will also take the opportunity to say a few words about the Union’s work in supporting musicians across all genres and backgrounds, and the MU’s continued commitment to building a fairer, more representative music industry.
Ruth Ballantyne, MU Regional Officer for Wales and South West England, said: “The MU is proud to support the Black Welsh Music Awards 2025. This initiative shines a light on extraordinary talent while reflecting our shared commitment to fairness, inclusion, and equity across the music industry. We are excited to stand alongside BWMA in celebrating Black creativity and contribution in Wales.”
About the Black Welsh Music Awards
Founded to address the underrepresentation of Black artists in mainstream recognition, the Black Welsh Music Awards have quickly become a vital platform for showcasing the depth and diversity of talent across Wales.
The event will feature live performances, special guest appearances, and awards across multiple categories, including:
- Best Male Artist
- Best Female Artist
- Best Producer
- Best Group
- Best New Artist
- Outstanding Contribution to Music
For more information and updates on the full programme, visit the Black Welsh Music Awards website.