Altered Images, The View, and Dylan John Thomas to play at Barrowlands for Specsavers Scottish Music Awards

The Specsavers Scottish Music Awards will return to Glasgow’s Barrowland Ballroom in November.

The event, which celebrates the musical talent produced north of the border, doubles as a fundraiser for music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins Scotland.

The first nominees and performers have been announced, with Clare Grogan set to be honoured with the Sir Reo Stakis Foundation Living Legend Award.

Grogan, who will perform with her band Altered Images on the night, said: “I adore still being part of the Scottish music scene and I often say that music is my kind of therapy, it’s got me through a lot in life.

“Getting to release my first new music this year in quite some time has been an incredible experience. The response has been overwhelming and this award is the icing on the cake! But I’m nowhere near finished yet. It’s who I am.

“I love being part of this community and the love I get from it. In the words of Sister Sledge, ‘We Are Family!’”

The Specsavers Scottish Music Awards made its Barrowland Ballroom debut last year with performances from Wet Wet Wet, Amy McDonald and Nina Nesbitt.

The event honoured international industry veterans and upcoming artists alike, with Biffy Clyro bagging the Best Live Award and Bow Anderson picking up Best Pop Act, among others.

Hosting again will be Edith Bowman, who said: “I cannot wait for this year’s Specsavers Scottish Music Awards after the amazing event at the Barrowland Ballroom last November.

“It has been another incredible year for Scottish music, and I’m looking forward to hosting some of our top talent and fans, whilst raising money for Nordoff Robbins, supporting them to deliver their remarkable services to those in need.

“Scotland’s music scene is so unique and special, and the Barrowlands really captures that spirit, not to mention the epic live performances that the Scottish Music Awards guarantees.”

Dundee band The View will pick up the Rox ‘Diamonds & Thrills’ Special Recognition Award for their contribution to Scottish music.

Frontman Kyle Falconer said: “We’re honoured to be receiving the special recognition award this year after a short break for the band. Absolutely buzzing to be back in the mix.”

Also honoured will be rising star Dylan John Thomas, after a year which saw him sell out his upcoming shows at the Barrowlands and play to thousands at TRNSMT festival.

After his nomination for the Dean Banks & Mond Vodka Breakthrough Artist Award, eh said: “Cheers Scottish Music Awards for the nomination for the Breakthrough Artist award. Looking forward to playing a couple of tunes on the night. Wit a buzz to be back in the Barras.”

Last year, with income forecasts down 40% compared with pre-pandemic levels, the generosity of Specsavers Scottish Music Awards donors exceeded all expectations.

£180,000 of vital funds were raised from the evening, ensuring Nordoff Robbins could continue to provide music therapists and sessions to those who need them most.

Donald MacLeod, Scottish Fundraising Chairman, said: “After the incredible success of last year’s event, we are delighted to announce the return of the Specsavers Scottish Music Awards to Glasgow’s iconic Barrowland Ballroom on Saturday 5th November, for what promises to be another incredible celebration of Scotland’s diverse musical talent and an important fundraiser for Nordoff Robbins.

“The generosity of the Scottish music community since the first Scottish Music Awards Ceremony in 1999 has allowed us to improve so many lives through the transformative power of music therapy for those who need it most. The support of industry legends like Wet Wet Wet and Amy McDonald, and rising stars Nathan Evans and Brooke Combe, at last year’s ceremony helped to raise £180,000 of vital funds for the charity.

“We are so pleased to deliver this year’s event in partnership with Specsavers who align wonderfully with our mission and, in 2021, donated £15,000 to Nordoff Robbins’ Scottish projects. The 2022 Scottish Music Awards will undoubtedly be one of our best yet.”

Tickets are available to purchase via Simon Foy at simon.foy@nordoff-robbins.org.uk