FocusMusic is pleased to announce that applications for the Heyman Rising Artist Award are open!  Last year, FocusMusic created this award to recognize and support an up-and-coming artist.  Our inaugural recipient, Goldpine (formerly My One and Only) are gaining rave reviews for their new CD, “ONE” that was funded in part by this award. 

Vic and Reba Heyman were more than the ultimate folk music fans. For decades, they attended concerts and festivals across the nation, supporting artists with their energy as well as financially, earning them the affectionate title of “folk angels”. Their generosity in things both tangible and intangible was career changing for many artists, especially those early in their careers.  

In their spirit, this award recognizes and supports a rising individual or group in the folk community. Eligibility includes performers that have only one initial release* and have not previously won or placed (1st, 2nd, or 3rd) as a new artist in a national music competition. Applications must include two You Tube links of a live performance and a statement from the artist summarizing their background and vision of themselves as it relates to folk music. Winner will receive a $1000 award to be used towards an upcoming recording with a planned release within the next year.  

There is no fee to apply.  To submit an application, fill out the application on this page! (if the application is not visible, please follow this link)  Applications close April 30, 2023.  The winner will be announced in the Spring 2023. 

*For the purposes of this award, FocusMusic considers a “release” to be either a physical or digital body of work of at least 30 minutes in length released as a single product.