Madison artists swept several categories at the Wisconsin Area Music Industry's annual awards show last Sunday in Milwaukee. Violinist and singer-songwriter Ida Jo took home the Female Vocalist of the Year prize, while Mama Digdown's Brass Band was named Big Band/Horn Band of the Year. A people's choice award was bestowed upon the Majestic Theatre, which has started bringing touring acts to the Frequency, the Barrymore Theatre and Redamte Coffee House in addition to its own stage. Former Madison resident pat mAcdonald received a spot in WAMI's hall of fame for his work in the Grammy-winning new wave band Timbuk3.
Awards also went to several frequent Madison visitors. Saxophonist Mary Rodgers of Dead Man's Carnival was crowned queen of the brass instruments, and folk rockers Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons won the Song of the Year and Artist of the Year categories. Yipes!, a power-pop band that guitar-toting comedian Pat McCurdy helmed in the late '70s, also landed in the hall of fame, along with Phil Collins' guitarist, Daryl Stuermer. For the complete list of honorees, visit WAMImusic.com.
