resource
Update
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FAI 2024
NEWS
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Region
š 2026 International Folk Music Awards š Winners
January 21, 2026
resource
Update
event
FAI 2024
NEWS
Partner
Region
Celebrate the best and brightest of the folk industry. From legendary figures to forward-thinking community organizers. See all of this yearās winners below and view a replay of the awards ceremony on our YouTube page.
View all Award Recipients and Nominees
2025 Best-of Winners
TIE: Artist of the Year
sponsored by Folk Americana Roots Hall of Fame
Song of the Year
āSleeves Upā
Written and Performed by Crys Matthews
Album of the Year
Global Folk Album of the Year
sponsored by Songlines Magazine
VƤrav / VÄrti / Vartai by The Baltic Sisters
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Clearwater Award: Edmonton Folk Festival
The Clearwater Award is presented to a festival that prioritizes environmental stewardship and demonstrates public leadership in sustainable event production.
Rising Tide Award: Yasmin Williams
sponsored by the Levitt Family Foundation
The Rising Tide award celebrates emerging artists who inspire others by embodying the values and ideals of the folk community through their work.
People's Voice Award: Kyshona
The Peopleās Voice Award is presented to an individual who embraces social and political commentary in their creative work and public careers.
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Lifetime Achievement Awards
The Elaine Weissman Lifetime Achievement Awards are presented each year to honor the cultural impact of legendary folk music figures: one Living, one Legacy, and one Business/Academic.
Living:
Taj Mahal
Legacy:
Clifton Chenier
Business/Academic: Louisiana Folk Roots
Spirit of Folk Awards
These awards are presented to honor and celebrate people and organizations actively involved in the promotion and preservation of folk music through their creative work, community building, and demonstrated leadership. Read more about each recipient!
Alex Mallett
Cindy Cogbill
Rachel Ornelas
Folk Radio Hall of Fame
These awards are presented to honor and celebrate people and organizations actively involved in the promotion and preservation of folk music through their creative work, community building, and demonstrated leadership. Read more about each recipient!
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