Every role plays an intricate part in the success of an artist, a brand, a business … a public presence. Our goal is to showcase each element that contributes to the overall success of the unique that helps them connect with the masses!
NEW Category Requests Welcome
To submit suggestions for new categories & recognitions – just contact us!
General Rules
- Nominations will be accepted from January 1 – November 15th
- All nominations will be subject to Eligibility & Requirements for each Category Nomination
- Categories with less than 10 eligible nominations will be excluded from Final Stages
- Nominations are NOT considered ACTIVE until accepted by Nominee.
All Genres Welcome
Music is the therapy that keeps the world balanced. Every mood has a theme song; every emotioits own playlist.
The Phoenix Apex Awards honor & acknowledge the individual professionals that bring the magic of music to fruition.
Current Genres Accepted Include:
- Alternative
- Blues
- Christian Hip Hop
- Country
- Hip Hop
- Jazz
- Latin
- Metal
- New Age
- Pop
- R&B/ Soul
- Rap
- Reggae
- Rock
The Apex Awards were created by Phoenix Roots in 2024 with the intentions of recognizing dope ass Underground Hip Hop Artists – We now proudly open the floor to Indie Artists of all genres.
The Acoustic Artisan Award celebrates the unique talent of artists who craft musical masterpieces with raw, organic sounds and stripped-down instrumentation. This award honors those whose acoustic performances bring an unparalleled depth of emotion, storytelling, and authenticity to their music. Whether through the soul-stirring strum of a guitar, the rhythmic beat of a drum, or the power of an unfiltered voice, these artists capture the essence of musical artistry in its purest form, creating intimate and timeless experiences for their audiences. The Acoustic Artisan is a true craftsman of sound, blending passion and precision into every note.
*This award is open to all genres.
The Artist of the Year Award honors the most exceptional and dynamic performer of the year, celebrating an artist whose creativity, impact, and influence have left an undeniable mark on the music industry. This award recognizes an individual who consistently delivers top-tier artistry, whether through groundbreaking music, unforgettable performances, or cultural contributions. The Artist of the Year is not only a master of their craft but also a trendsetter, leader, and voice of the people. Their dedication to pushing boundaries and elevating the art form defines them as a true icon in the hip hop and music community.
The Band of the Year Award celebrates the collective artistry, chemistry, and creativity of the most outstanding group in music. This award honors a band whose collaborative efforts have resulted in exceptional musical projects, electrifying performances, and a lasting impact on fans and the industry alike. The Band of the Year exemplifies synergy, with each member bringing their unique talents to create a sound that is greater than the sum of its parts. From live shows to studio recordings, their ability to innovate and captivate sets them apart as leaders in the music scene, representing the power of unity and teamwork in creating unforgettable musical experiences.
The Best Album Collaboration Award honors the most remarkable partnership between artists who came together to create a groundbreaking and cohesive body of work. This award recognizes the synergy between collaborators whose combined talents, diverse styles, and creative visions have elevated the album to new heights. Whether blending genres, voices, or production styles, the Best Album Collaboration showcases the power of teamwork and mutual respect in crafting a project that resonates deeply with audiences. This award celebrates the magic that happens when artists join forces to produce something truly unforgettable and transformative.
The Best Remix Award celebrates the artist or producer who has transformed an existing track into something fresh, dynamic, and innovative. This award recognizes those who skillfully blend their creativity with the original song's essence, adding unique elements that elevate the remix to a new level. Whether through reimagined beats, reworked vocals, or genre-bending twists, the Best Remix Award honors the artistry of reinvention and the talent to breathe new life into a track.
| The Solo Album of the Year Award celebrates the artist who has delivered an outstanding solo project that resonates with both fans and critics. This award honors the album that showcases the artist's creativity, lyrical prowess, and musical vision in a cohesive body of work. The Solo Album of the Year is a testament to the artist's ability to tell their story, push artistic boundaries, and leave a lasting impact through their individual expression. |
The Best Track Collaboration Award celebrates the most outstanding joint effort between artists on a single track, where their combined energy and talents create a musical masterpiece. This award honors a collaboration that perfectly balances each artist’s unique style and flow, resulting in a track that stands out for its creativity, cohesion, and impact. Whether it’s through powerful verses, harmonizing vocals, or innovative production, the Best Track Collab showcases the magic that happens when artists unite to produce a song that resonates deeply with fans and sets new standards for excellence.
The Breakthrough Artist Award honors the artist who has made a significant leap forward in their career, capturing the spotlight with their raw talent, originality, and hard work. This award recognizes those who have broken barriers and gained widespread recognition, showcasing remarkable growth and artistry over the past year. The Breakthrough Artist is a rising force, whose fresh sound and dynamic presence signal a new era in the music scene, marking them as an artist to watch.
The Collaborator of the Year Award celebrates the artist who excels in bringing creative synergy to every partnership they undertake. This award recognizes an individual known for their ability to seamlessly blend styles, energy, and talent, resulting in standout projects and unforgettable tracks. Whether featured on a hook, trading verses, or co-producing hits, the Collaborator of the Year embodies the spirit of teamwork, elevating every project they touch with their unique contributions and chemistry.
| The Collective Consistency Award honors the group that has demonstrated unwavering dedication and reliability in delivering high-quality music and performances year after year. This award recognizes those who continue to push boundaries while staying true to their roots, maintaining a powerful presence in the music scene. The recipients of this award exemplify unity, resilience, and a relentless work ethic, setting the standard for what it means to be a consistent force in the industry. |
| The Community Champion Award celebrates the individual or entity that goes beyond music to make a meaningful impact in their community. This award recognizes those who use their platform to advocate for social change, support charitable initiatives, and uplift those around them. The Community Champion is dedicated to giving back, inspiring others through acts of kindness, activism, and outreach, embodying the true spirit of leadership and compassion within the music industry. |
The Conscious Lyricism Award honors the artist whose words carry a powerful message, using their platform to spark thought, inspire change, and address important social, political, and cultural issues. This award recognizes lyricists who craft their bars with purpose, weaving together storytelling, activism, and profound insight into the world around them. Through their music, they challenge the status quo, amplify marginalized voices, and create dialogue around critical topics. The Conscious Lyricism Award celebrates the power of words to educate, elevate, and empower, honoring artists who use their gift to move hearts and minds while staying true to the roots of hip hop as a tool for social awareness.
| The Cultural Impact Award honors the artist, group, or movement that has significantly influenced society through their music, style, and message. This award recognizes those who have sparked conversations, shifted perspectives, and set trends that resonate beyond the music scene. The Cultural Impact Award celebrates individuals who use their artistry to shape culture, challenge norms, and inspire a lasting dialogue, leaving an indelible mark on the world around them. |
| The Digital Powerhouse Award recognizes the artist, group, or platform that has mastered the digital landscape to build a powerful and engaging presence. This award celebrates those who effectively use social media, streaming services, and online content to connect with fans, promote their music, and create a lasting impact. The Digital Powerhouse is a trailblazer in the virtual space, using innovation, strategy, and creativity to elevate their brand and influence the music scene. |
| The DJ Funksway Dope Human Award is designated by the one & only DJ Funksway, to the individual that has exemplified true loyalty, diligence and consistency. The 2025 recipient is the very first 'Pass the Torch' recipient of this award and honors the individual that showcases the true meaning of "Ride for your team." |
| The DJ of the Year Award celebrates the DJ who has set the music scene ablaze with their exceptional mixing skills, live sets, and ability to move the crowd. This award honors the individual whose creativity, technical prowess, and innovative soundscapes have shaped the year’s hottest tracks and events. The DJ of the Year is a master of the decks, seamlessly blending genres and beats to create unforgettable musical experiences that keep audiences coming back for more. |
The Duo of the Year Award celebrates the most dynamic and influential partnership in music, recognizing two artists whose combined talents have created a powerful and unforgettable impact. This award honors a duo that excels in collaboration, seamlessly blending their unique styles, energy, and creativity to produce standout tracks, performances, or projects. Whether through lyrical interplay, vocal harmonies, or unmatched chemistry on stage, the Duo of the Year represents the pinnacle of teamwork and artistry. Their synergy captivates audiences and sets them apart as a leading force in the music world, proving that together, they are unstoppable.
| The Fan Favorite Award honors the artist that has captured the hearts of fans and created a lasting impact throughout the year. This award is driven by the voice of the listeners, celebrating the music that resonated most with the community. The Fan Favorite represents the power of audience support and showcases the connection between the artist and their loyal fan base, highlighting the music that truly made waves in the culture. |
The Freestyle Guru Award honors the artist who has mastered the art of spontaneous lyrical expression, showcasing unmatched creativity, wordplay, and flow in the world of freestyle. This award recognizes an individual who thrives in the moment, delivering razor-sharp bars with precision and confidence, whether on stage, in cyphers, or battles. The Freestyle Guru is a true wordsmith, able to craft complex rhymes and captivating narratives on the spot, proving their lyrical prowess without the need for a script. This award celebrates the essence of hip hop's improvisational roots and the artist's ability to turn raw talent into mesmerizing, off-the-cuff performances.
| The Graphic Guru Award recognizes the visionary designer behind the most captivating album art, promotional visuals, or branding in the music industry. This award honors the individual whose creativity and design skills bring an artist's vision to life, creating striking imagery that resonates with fans and elevates the music's impact. The Graphic Guru shapes the visual narrative, using their artistry to enhance the music experience and leave a lasting impression. |
The Group of the Year Award honors the unified collective of artists who, together, have made a significant impact on the music scene as a unit. This award recognizes a group that exemplifies unity, collaboration, and creativity, producing music that resonates with audiences and pushes the boundaries of their genre. Through their combined talents, whether in the studio or on stage, the Group of the Year showcases unmatched chemistry, delivering powerful performances and memorable tracks. This award celebrates their collective strength and dedication to their craft, acknowledging their role in shaping the sound and culture of the music world.
*Note: A Group consistently performs with the same members on all releases & performances. Rotating members are considered a Collective for the purpose of the Apex Awards.
| The Hustler of the Year Award celebrates the artist or industry professional who has shown relentless drive, work ethic, and determination to succeed. This award honors the individual who juggles multiple projects, constantly pushes boundaries, and takes bold steps to advance their career. The Hustler of the Year embodies grit, ambition, and a never-quit attitude, setting an inspiring example of what it means to truly hustle in the music industry. |
| The Inspirational Artist Award honors the artist whose music and message uplift, motivate, and empower listeners. This award recognizes those who use their platform to spread positivity, share personal journeys, and inspire change through their art. The Inspirational Artist embodies hope and resilience, using their voice to connect with audiences on a deeper level and remind everyone of the power of music to heal, unite, and transform lives. |
| The Lyricist of the Year Award celebrates the artist whose mastery of words, storytelling, and poetic brilliance set them apart as a true wordsmith. This award honors those who craft intricate, thought-provoking lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners, showcasing creativity, intellect, and raw emotion. The Lyricist of the Year captivates audiences with their verses, using language to paint vivid pictures, challenge ideas, and leave an indelible mark on the culture. |
The Master Manager Award recognizes the strategic genius and unwavering dedication of individuals who expertly guide and shape the careers of artists in the music industry. This award honors managers who go above and beyond, navigating the complexities of contracts, tours, branding, and artist development while maintaining strong relationships within the industry. A true Master Manager is a visionary, protector, and advocate, ensuring their artist’s creative vision is realized while positioning them for long-term success. Their behind-the-scenes influence drives the growth and sustainability of an artist's career, making them an indispensable force in the music world.
| The Media Influencer of the Year Award recognizes the individual or platform that has used their media presence to shape conversations, highlight talent, and influence trends within the music industry. This award honors those who expertly leverage social media, podcasts, blogs, or other digital channels to promote artists, spark dialogue, and drive cultural impact. The Media Influencer of the Year is a tastemaker, using their voice and reach to spotlight what’s new, relevant, and transformative in the music scene. |
| The Mental Health Advocate of the Year Award honors the artist or individual who uses their platform to promote mental health awareness, support, and education within the community. This award recognizes those who courageously share their personal experiences, challenge stigmas, and provide resources to help others on their mental health journey. The Mental Health Advocate of the Year is a beacon of hope and compassion, using their influence to foster open conversations and inspire a culture of empathy and understanding. |
| The Most Improved Artist of the Year Award celebrates the artist who has shown remarkable growth and development in their craft over the past year. This award honors those who have worked tirelessly to refine their skills, elevate their sound, and push their artistic boundaries. The Most Improved Artist has demonstrated an inspiring commitment to self-improvement and evolution, making strides that have caught the attention of fans and the industry alike. |
| The NEXT UP Award shines a spotlight on an emerging artist who is quickly rising through the ranks and poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene. This award recognizes an individual whose fresh sound, innovative style, and undeniable talent have captured the attention of fans and industry insiders alike. The recipient of this award embodies the future of music, bringing a new energy and vision that signals their readiness to take the spotlight and redefine what’s next in the world of music. |
| The Podcast of the Year Award recognizes the podcast that has made the most significant impact in the music community through insightful discussions, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking content. This award honors the hosts and creators who use their platform to highlight artists, explore industry trends, and engage listeners with conversations that matter. The Podcast of the Year is a driving force in shaping dialogue, providing entertainment, education, and inspiration to its audience. |
| The PR Magician of the Year Award honors the public relations professional who has expertly managed artist narratives, elevated their clients' visibility, and created buzz within the music industry. This award recognizes those who skillfully craft stories, navigate media landscapes, and build powerful connections to keep their artists in the spotlight. The PR Magician of the Year is a master of influence and strategy, turning challenges into opportunities and ensuring their clients' voices are heard loud and clear. |
The Pristine Performance Award celebrates the artist who delivers the most flawless and captivating live performances of the year. This award recognizes those who consistently bring unmatched energy, stage presence, and artistry to every show, creating an unforgettable experience for their audience. From commanding the crowd to showcasing their vocal or lyrical prowess, the recipient of this award embodies the essence of a true performer. The Pristine Performance Award honors those who transform the stage into their canvas, leaving a lasting impact with each electrifying moment.
| The Producer of the Year Award celebrates the visionary behind the beats, soundscapes, and overall production that define the year’s most impactful music. This award honors the producer whose creativity, technical skill, and innovative approach have shaped the sound of tracks and albums, elevating them to new heights. The Producer of the Year is a true architect of sound, seamlessly blending elements to craft unforgettable music that resonates with artists and fans alike. |
| The Producer's Choice Award honors the standout artist selected by producers for their exceptional performance, versatility, and ability to bring a unique energy to every track they touch. This award recognizes the artist who not only inspires creativity in the studio but also elevates every beat, melody, and rhythm they work with. The Producer's Choice is a testament to the artist's impact, as chosen by the masterminds behind the music. |
| The Promoter of the Year Award recognizes the individual or organization that has expertly brought music events to life, creating unforgettable experiences for artists and fans alike. This award honors those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to organize, market, and elevate shows, tours, and festivals. The Promoter of the Year is a master connector, using their influence and dedication to amplify the music scene and bring people together through the power of live performances. |
| The Song of the Year Award honors the track that has made a powerful impact, resonating deeply with listeners and defining the musical landscape of the year. This award recognizes the song that combines exceptional lyrics, production, and performance, creating an unforgettable listening experience. The Song of the Year captures the spirit of the moment, leaving a lasting mark on the culture and becoming an anthem that fans can’t get enough of. |
| The Songwriter of the Year Award celebrates the artist whose exceptional songwriting skills have delivered some of the year’s most memorable and impactful music. This award honors those who craft lyrics with depth, creativity, and emotion, telling stories that resonate with listeners. The Songwriter of the Year is a master of wordplay, weaving words into verses that captivate the mind and soul, leaving an indelible mark on the music world. |
| The Mentor of the Year Award honors the individual who has made a significant impact by guiding, supporting, and nurturing the next generation of talent in the music industry. This award recognizes those who generously share their knowledge, experience, and wisdom, empowering others to grow and succeed. The Mentor of the Year is a beacon of inspiration and a source of invaluable advice, dedicating time and effort to uplift others and shape the future of music. |
| The Presence of the Year Award celebrates the artist whose commanding stage presence and magnetic energy set them apart in every performance. This award honors those who captivate audiences, drawing listeners in with their charisma, confidence, and unforgettable delivery. The Presence of the Year embodies the essence of live artistry, leaving an indelible impression and proving that their impact goes far beyond just the music. |
| The Tour Manager of the Year Award honors the individual who expertly navigates the complexities of life on the road, ensuring seamless and successful tours for artists. This award recognizes the manager who handles every detail with precision, from logistics and scheduling to problem-solving and team coordination. The Tour Manager of the Year is the backbone of every show, creating a smooth experience for both artists and fans while keeping the tour on track and running flawlessly. |
| The Underground Legacy Award honors the artist or group that has made a profound and lasting impact on the underground music scene. This award recognizes those who have stayed true to the roots of their craft, consistently delivering raw, authentic music that resonates deeply with their community. The Underground Legacy embodies the spirit of independence, resilience, and creativity, influencing the culture while paving the way for future generations in the underground movement. |
| The Video of the Year Award celebrates the most visually captivating and creatively executed music video of the year. This award honors the artist and production team who have turned a song into a cinematic masterpiece, using imagery, storytelling, and visual artistry to elevate the music's impact. The Video of the Year is a stunning blend of sound and vision, leaving a lasting impression and setting a new standard for music videos. |
| The Vocalist of the Year Award honors the artist whose vocal performances have stood out for their power, emotion, and technical excellence. This award recognizes those who captivate listeners with their voice, showcasing range, versatility, and an ability to convey deep feeling through every note. The Vocalist of the Year leaves an unforgettable mark with each performance, embodying the soul and passion that define truly great music. |