“I’m an independent musician so I know
we need a platform like this,” Bedell says. “There are so many talented
people out there who aren’t being recognized. People try to get a
record deal on their own, some get discouraged and others keep going. I
realized that in order to do anything you have to do it yourself.
That’s why I pay tribute to independent artists.”
Those who come to the show can expect to
see winners announced in 35 categories that include all musical genres,
poet, model, designer, television shows, online radio,
dancer/choreographer, photographer and comedian. Winners will be
decided from an online ballot that these artists could print and
distribute to friends, family and at shows. “We’re getting more and
more balloting each year,” says Bedell, who relocated here from
Washington, D.C., with his wife Sheridonna Bedell, who is hosting the show.
“My sister introduced me to Syracuse,”
he says. “She was here first and saw the opportunities that are here to
raise a family. The homes are cheaper than in D.C. as well. If we
didn’t come here then the show probably would never have happened.”
The USIAs will feature numerous
performances by such artists as Carbone, Up North Movement, Brother
Maniac and the DMV All-Stars, Nyesh McGriff, and others.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for
students, and $5 for children younger than 10, and can be purchased at
the Web site, www.usiawards.com. For more information, call Bedell at
422-1406.
