New initiative provides financial support and performance opportunities to LGBTQ+ artists
Gibson Gives, the philanthropic arm of Gibson, Inc, has teamed up with Music Forward to present the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards for 2024. This initiative aims to support young LGBTQ+ musicians by breaking down barriers in the music industry. Gibson Gives is donating over $43,000 to this impactful program.
10 emerging artists aged 18-24 will be selected through an extensive screening process. Each will receive a $3,000 grant, a $1,000 Gibson instrument, performance opportunities, and quarterly mentorship from established musicians and industry professionals.
Applications are open until August 18. Winners will be announced on October 2. The awards will culminate in a virtual show in mid-late October.
Singer-songwriter and record producer Butch Walker, one of the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award musician mentors for 2024, states, “Hey all! I’m excited to be supporting the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award, and to celebrate the amazing talent and diversity within the community. This award not only recognizes artistic excellence but also empowers emerging voices to inspire and create needed change.”
“Gibson Gives is proud to partner with Music Forward to support the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award,” says Erica Krusen, Global Executive Director of Gibson Gives. “We believe in the power of individual voices and strive to break down barriers, promoting a more inclusive music industry. These awards support often-marginalized artists, nurturing their growth and helping them achieve their greatest artistic potential.”
“At Music Forward, we work towards inspiring young artists and providing resources to drive their careers forward while making the industry more inclusive for all voices,” adds Nurit Siegel Smith, Executive Director of the Music Forward Foundation. “The LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award is a staple of our programs, and we are excited for our partnership with Gibson Gives to continue to empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ musicians.”
Notable program participants and grant recipients include acclaimed artists such as Phoebe Bridgers, Maxwell Frost, Trombone Shorty, and Andrae Alexander. Celebrated performers such as Khalid, Sophia Carson, Lauren Daigle, Martina McBride, Carlos Santana, and Julia Michaels have proudly served as Ambassadors for Music Forward.
What is the timeline for the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards program?
Monday, August 5: Applications open
Sunday, August 18: Applications close
Monday, August 19 – Friday, September 27: Application review and selection
Monday, September 30: Awardees notified
October 2: Announcement of Awardees
Mid-late October: Virtual Award Show
Who is involved?
The Music Forward Foundation, a national nonprofit within the Live Nation family, is dedicated to nurturing young talent in the music industry. By offering mentoring, live performances, workshops, and panel discussions, they pave the way for the next generation of entertainment professionals.
Gibson Gives, the nonprofit arm of the iconic Gibson brand, aids musicians and promotes music education, health, and wellness globally. Through its philanthropic efforts, Gibson Gives assists nonprofits and offers scholarships to aspiring music students.
A 501(c)(3) organization, Gibson Gives has raised over $4.5 million, enabling $46 million in funding for key initiatives. All donations support music-related causes, fostering inclusive musical partnerships and advancing youth-focused music education.
For more information, visit Music Forward Foundation and Gibson Gives.
