Some of Brisbane's most promising emerging acts have been recognised at Brisbane City Council’s The QUBE Effect Awards, with winners revealed at a special ceremony at Brisbane Powerhouse on 11 July.
Indie five-piece The Jensens were the night's big winners, taking out both the Telstra Innovation Award and JMC Best Original Song. They walked away prizes including a spot on the Splendour in the Grass lineup, a $2000 cash prize and studio time with ARIA Award winning producer Magoo.
QMA 2018 Schools Award winner Xander Holmes accepted the Lord Mayor’s City Hall Concert Award, saying the award came as a surprise.
"I didn’t even expect to be shortlisted, I just thought I'd enter, give it a shot and see what happens,” he said.
“I eventually want to do this as a career so to win this award is really cool.”
Singer songwriter Hope D took home the QPAC Green Jam Award, while rockers Selfish Sons won the popular vote, clinching the People's Choice Award.
The winners were selected by a panel of Queensland music industry experts from a shortlist of 24 artists, with the People’s Choice Award voted by the public.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said The QUBE Effect awards celebrate Brisbane’s young emerging talent with the winners given the opportunity to play on big stages and be mentored by influential artists.
“The 2019 winners are our next big stars and will now go on to perform on some huge stages including Splendour in the Grass later this month, End of the Line Festival in Woolloongabba in November, QPAC Green Jam, GOMA Up Late and Brisbane City Hall.”
Cr Schrinner said The QUBE Effect program had become a leading platform for emerging talent to take their careers to the next level.
“The QUBE Effect is focused on retaining local musical talent and encouraging artist development, by providing industry partnerships and mentoring,” he said.
“The awards night is part of Council’s commitment to providing real opportunities for young people to access Council programs and achieve their dreams.”
