As in past years, our readers recently sent in boxfuls of preliminary ballots to the Brevard Live office. Those ballots were tabulated and the top five vote getters now have been named in nine different categories, including “favorite” Original Band and Cover Band as well as the coveted Entertainer of the Year honor.
    Our annual party attracts hundreds of fans and industry insiders who typically come dressed to impress (frequently in limos) to celebrate the past year’s worth of hard work, dedication and talent of area musicians and performers.
    In addition to presenting awards, the 2012 BMAs also will offer an outstanding array of local musicians. We will announce our stellar line-up in our next issue. But there is one name involved we want to leak now: This year’s celebrity guest is legendary guitarist Les Dudek. Les’ impressive career has seen the release of several successful international albums. Over the years he’s also toured, recorded and performed with the likes of Stevie Nicks, Boz Scaggs, The Steve Miller Band, The Allman Brothers and Cher. Nabbing Les is a major coup for the BMAs, and we’re honored to have him onboard as 2012’s headline act.
    I’m delighted personally to have been asked back (for the eighth time) to host the show and I’m equally thrilled to be having the lovely Janelle Wilson by my side as this year’s “Vanna White.” The 2012 house band once again will feature former BMA winners Joe Calautti (guitar/vocals), Tom Willett (bass) and Sam Hill (drums). And this year, the all-star ensemble will be rounded out by latest recruit Steve Mazzi on sax.
    Admission for the BMAs is $10 and the show is open to music fans of all ages. Additional ticket info soon will be posted in our upcoming issues as well as at BrevardLive.com. All proceeds benefit Brevard Music Aid, Inc., a not-for-profit fund that aids local musicians in dire need.
    There is PLENTY more BMA “dish” to reveal and discuss, so stay connected here as well as to BrevardLive.com throughout the summer for additional details and updates.
    Last year’s show was considered by most as the best yet, however, I believe that 2012’s production will top ‘em ALL!

Christopher Long
BMAs-Master Of Ceremony