IBMA Unveils 36th Bluegrass Awards Nominees Including Krauss, Strings, Del McCoury

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has announced the nominees for its 36th Annual Bluegrass Music Awards, with Alison Krauss & Union Station, Billy Strings, and the Del McCoury Band leading the pack for Entertainer of the Year. Alison Krauss & Union Station received multiple nominations tied to their first album in 14 years, including Album of the Year and Vocal Group of the Year, while Krauss also earned a Female Vocalist of the Year nod. Billy Strings, a consistent award staple, is nominated for several categories including Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Guitar Player of the Year. The awards ceremony will take place on September 18, 2025, at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga, Tennessee, marking the first time the event is held in the city. In addition to the awards, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame will induct pioneering Black guitarist Arnold Schultz, the band Hot Rize, and The Bluegrass Cardinals, honoring their significant contributions to the genre. The IBMA aims to celebrate both innovation in bluegrass music and its rich traditions through these recognitions.