The Southern Entertainment Awards (abbreviated as SEAs) has been a staple in southern culture, music and entertainment. In its 18th year, SEA, a well-known venue and channel gives independent artists all around the globe a platform. Evolving from its original outlet to acknowledge the accomplishments and influence of the Djs in the South. SEA now celebrates the successes of artists, creatives, designers, and entrepreneurs from Nashville to Mississippi.
Based in Nashville, Tennessee, the annual awards show has grown substantially from its remarkable beginnings at Gibson’s Showcase in 2004. Previous performances include heavy hitters Nicki Minaj, B.o.B., Yo Gotti and more. The awards show has traveled from Memphis to Tunica, MS and will return home this year at the Bellshire Center at 6PM on Sunday May 30th.
Nicki Minaj at 6th Annual S.E.A. ceremony in Tunica, Ms.
The S.E.A. mission
The Southern Entertainment Awards strives to be a platform that showcases independent talent, offers industry support and bridges the many gaps between music, arts and brands. Through tailored efforts, initiatives and consistent outreach, the SEA founders challenges themselves and their organization to provide a solid foundation for indie artist and independent brands.
Why Nashville is the home of the S.E.A.
“Nashville in my opinion has its own unique melting pot”, said co-founder Janiro Hawkins in a recent #IAmNashville interview. “There’s a lot people here from all across the United States. Nashville operates eleven days a week because there’s so much going on.” The urban music scene in Nashville is overshadowed but the founders Janiro Hawkins and Jesse Johnson are changing that.
We put our hearts and souls into this. There’s a lot of hurdles we had to jump and a lot of people who tried to do what we’re doing quit after one or two years. We’re still going strong.
Jesse Johnson, Co-founder (S.E.A.)
S.E.A. the experience
If you’ve had the chance to attend a Southern Entertainment Awards ceremony then you’re already familiar with the packed weekend. Network with creatives, attend discussion panels for artists, enjoy an astounding chic fashion show that features up and coming designers then step out in style and stroll down the red carpet at the awards finale.
Nodat will be in the house on Sunday, May 30th to present the award to this year’s small business winner. See a complete list of nominees here. Small business spotlight to follow. Subscribe to our blog to stay in the know.
Tickets are on sale on Eventbrite. Download Nodat. Turn on push notifications and get alerts when S.E.A. drops a ticket deal or giveaway.