The aim of the inaugural music awards, to be held on 9 December, is to recognise the achievements and contributions of local musicians, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, and promote diversity and inclusion in the music industry.

From the gritty beats of London’s underground grime to the soulful melodies of Afrobeats, the BUMAs will recognise the artists who continue to push boundaries, blend genres, and redefine the urban music landscape.

Bournemouth-based Enoch Kwoffie (33), BUMAs director, commented: “The South’s a melting pot of cultures and creativity, and this diversity is mirrored in its music scene. This region boasts an unrivalled range of musical styles that we are here to celebrate and the BUMAs will be shining a spotlight on the extraordinary talents that call it home.”

Enoch’s own business, Evision Music Group (EMG), is a Bournemouth-based record label with a strong focus on nurturing and crafting young talented Afrobeats musicians. Working alongside Enoch at EMG and on the organisation of the BUMAs is events coordinator, Cilla McPantsil, and media expert Ikay John-Ogbuku.

Award categories for the inaugural 2023 BUMAs includes Best Rap/Hip-Hop, Best Grime Act, Best Afrobeats, Best Dancehall/Reggae, Best R&B, Best DJ, Best Songwriter, Best Venue among many others.

“The objective of the Beacon Urban Music Awards is to celebrate and acknowledge the exceptional talent within the urban music community in Dorset and by extension the south coast of England,” Enoch adds. “By hosting this event, we aim to provide a platform that recognises the achievements and contributions of local musicians, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds and promote diversity and inclusion in the music industry.”

Judging the nominees are a collection of music professionals from across the South including local legends Jay Rachet, the group station manager for Hot Radio; J-Fresh, DJ, presenter, and producer; DJ BML, a DJ originally from the South West known for his unique flair and eclectic style; DJ Bizzy, a multi-award-winning DJ, edutainer and entrepreneur; and Enoch himself.

Enoch continues: “The BUMAs isn’t just an awards show; it will be an experience that brings music lovers, industry professionals and artists together.

“With electrifying live performances planned and that all-important red carpet glam, the BUMAs will captivate audiences and showcase the vibrant spirit of the South’s urban music culture.”

Some of the artists performing on 9 December include Delly Black (Afrobeats), VVS (HipHop), Slowie (Grime), Blvck Violet (R&B), Docta Bionix (HipHop), and Saxy J and Afrobeats band (Afrobeats, Soul, R&B).

Voting is now open to the public via www.buma.org.uk/vote and will close on Sunday 26 November at midnight. Tickets to the awards being held at Lighthouse Poole on 9 December are now on sale and available via www.buma.org.uk/the-event.