Hamilton honours its musicians

The Hamilton Music Awards were held last night at Mohawk College with Hamilton’s Tomi Swick performing.

The singer-songwriter was nominated for five awards. Swick didn’t go home empty-handed: he picked up the statue for pop recording of the year.

The Arkells weren’t able to attend last night’s awards, but they did send along a video message to say thanks when they won for best rock recording and songwriter of the year for their album Michigan Left.

One of the highlights of the night was when legendary Canadian band Crowbar was given the lifetime achievement award. Hamilton mayor Bob Bratina was among the presenters on stage for the big honour.

Members from Ronnie Hawkins’ one-time back-up band each took to the stage to tell stories and to thank their many supporters. The band is best known for their 1971 hit “Oh, What a Feeling”.

Indie-folk singer Terra Lightfoot took home three trophies including female vocalist of the year, popular Hamilton band Monster Truck won the people’s choice award, and alt-rock band The Rest took home record of the year.

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