

The Apex Award categories were designed to include all of the various individuals that are involved in what results in ‘music therapy’ to the masses.
We welcome submissions in all genres for each category. All genres will be subject to the exclusion rule individually.
2024
Phoenix Roots retains the rights to edit terms and conditions of the Apex Awards, at any time, to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the awards and award participants.
Created to honor underground Hip Hop artists that advocate for Mental Health Awareness, the Phoenix Apex Awards have expanded to Creatives of all genres that use the platform of the arts to deliver a message and maintain a powerful presence in the world of music.

NOMINATION GUIDELINES
- Accepted between January 1st and November 15th only;
- Open to the public for all categories, unless otherwise noted.
- Users can submit one nomination per category only.
- Incomplete submissions will not be accepted.
- Nominations that do not pertain to the category will be excluded.
CATEGORY GUIDELINES
- Only one submission for a nominee per category will be accepted; Nominee will be contacted for acceptance & verification. Multiple nominations for the same Nominee will count as ONE per category.
- Categories that receive less than (10) nominations will be excluded from final process stages.
ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS
In addition to the Award Category description, Nominees must:
- Confirm and accept nomination(s) for each category;
- Provide marketing assets for accurate promotions;
- Live up to the nomination!
VALIDATION PERIOD
Confirmed Nominees will:
- Be tracked, supported and followed throughout the year by our admin team;
- Promoted on website and social media campaigns;
- Be included in digital contests and promotions throughout the year;
- Listed in the Nominations Listing, unless excluded from category during Validation Period;
We look for more than just raw talent – this is for the magic makers, the peace keepers, the visionaries and the creatives. The Apex Awards honors those who find the balance between staying true to their roots and continuing to plant new seeds.
The validation stage begins with each Nomination submission. This triggers our team to begin profiling your selections to ensure they match the nomination category.
We all make time for what matters. That’s why the Phoenix Roots team is dedicated to recognizing the continuous presence our nominees maintain throughout the year. It’s not just about a single moment; it’s about showcasing the passion and commitment that drives them every day. We’re here to celebrate those who consistently show up and make a difference in their communities—because true impact happens when you’re actively engaged and invested!
At Phoenix Roots, we’re all about the belief that every talent deserves an audience. This year, we’re raising the stakes by putting that talent to the test—not just in front of fans, but also under the watchful eyes of a special guest judge panel. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between raw skill and the other elements that lead to real success. Get ready to see who will take home the titles!
The TOP 10 Nominees in each Category will be published on November 30th at 9am EST.
HERE COMES THE FUN:
Nominees that did not make the Top 10 list will have til the end of the Voting Period to CHALLENGE our decision! Prove your case and you earn a spot in front of the judges!
To Challenge Your Nomination Status, all you have to do is tell us why!
CHALLENGE OUR DECISION:
Send us an email, tag us in your video, contact us and Talk Yo Ish if you feel we missed something … Refer to Eligibility Standards!

December 1st - 15th
DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 15TH
Voting for the Top 10 Apex Nominees will be open to the public by digital submissions. Submissions guidelines:
- Only (1) Vote per Available Category will be accepted per User
- Non-organic and/or votes submitted by bots will be excluded
- Nominees can submit a vote for only categories which exclude them
- The Top 5 Nominees will extend to the final round to face the Special Judge Panel to decide who will be the 2025 Apex Award Recipients
A Night to Remember
Phoenix Roots is proud to present the 2025 Apex Award Gala in NYC, to kick off the New Year with nothing but blessings and good vibes!
This exclusive event will include live performances, vendors, and of course, live interviews with the nominees and recipients throughout the event.
**All raffle proceeds will be split evenly between mental health charities and the 2025 Legacy Apex Award recipient charity of choice. **
A Night to Shine
Join us for all inclusive event to honor the individual members of the music and performing arts communities that handle their business and stand consistent within their craft & their contribution to what many relate to as music therapy.
Dress to Impress Apex Award Gala Event Includes:
- Exclusive Local Vendor Cocktail Hour
- Live Nominee Performances
- Dinner Reservation (Choice)
- Access to Art Gallery & Boutique Rooms
- (1) Entry to Auction & 50/50 Raffles
- Giveaways courtesy of participants & sponsors

Sponsors & Vendors Welcome
Let's Make Some Magic
We're looking to join forces with passionate entrepreneurs that believe in the power of community and music therapy.