Sounds of East Texas Awards FAQs

What are the Sounds of East Texas Awards?

Founded in January 2026 by East Texas artists Heather Harper and Rylee Rene Choate, Sounds of East Texas celebrates music across Texas and across genres, with a special spotlight on East Texas. Our awards will recognize artists, songwriters, musicians, bands and duos, venues, music professionals and more. Our inaugural ceremony is planned for fall 2027 in Tyler, Texas.

Why the name Sounds of East Texas?

East Texas is where this platform began and remains our special spotlight. The awards welcome eligible people and work from across Texas.

Are the awards only for East Texas artists?

No. Eligible artists, creators, venues, and music professionals from across Texas may be considered. Each category has its own requirements, so please review the submission rules before entering.

When do nominations open and close?

Submissions are scheduled to open December 15, 2026, and close February 15, 2027.

Who can submit a nomination?

Artists and other eligible entrants may submit themselves. Fans and members of the public may also submit someone for consideration. Each person may submit once per category; duplicate submissions will be removed. The number of submissions someone receives does not determine whether they become a finalist.

Who is eligible?

Nominees must be based in or reside in Texas and be active in Texas. The eligibility period runs from January 1, 2026, through February 15, 2027. Additional requirements vary by category. Please read the rules and questions on the relevant category form before submitting.

Does an artist or band need to have released music?

It depends on the category. Song of the Year, Album or EP of the Year, and Music Video of the Year require an official release and a direct public link to the work. An actively performing duo or band does not need a music release solely to be considered for Duo or Band of the Year.

Can AI-generated music be submitted?

No. Music with AI-generated vocals, instrumentation, songwriting, or composition is not eligible under our submission rules.

Can an artist nominate themselves?

Yes. Self-submissions are welcome, but they receive no preference over submissions made by someone else.

How are the final nominees selected?

After submissions close, a selection panel of industry professionals will review eligible entries across categories and genres. The panel determines the final nominees. Submissions are for consideration; they are not public votes.

Will smaller or newer artists be considered?

Yes. A large following or high streaming count is not required on its own. Entrants must meet the rules for the category in which they are submitted.

Are independent and record-label artists both eligible?

Yes, provided they meet the applicable Texas, eligibility-period, and category requirements.

Can artists under 18 be nominated?

Yes, where they meet the category rules. For Rising Star of the Year (Under 18), the artist must be under 18 as of February 15, 2027. Parent or guardian consent and age verification will be required if the artist is selected.

Does it cost anything to submit a nomination?

No. Submitting a nomination is free.

What categories will be offered?

The 2027 awards include categories for performers, vocalists, songwriters, musicians, recorded music, music videos, venues, music media and more. Visit the nominations page for the full category list and requirements when submissions open.

What is the East Texas Spotlight Award?

It is a special recognition honoring a person whose work has made a meaningful contribution to East Texas music. It reflects the place where Sounds of East Texas began while the competitive awards remain open to eligible entrants across Texas.

When and where will the awards ceremony take place?

The inaugural ceremony is planned for fall 2027 in Tyler, Texas. We’ll announce the date and venue publicly when they are confirmed.

What happens if someone misses the submission deadline?

Submissions received after February 15, 2027, cannot be considered for the 2027 awards.

Can businesses support the awards?

Yes. Businesses can explore sponsorship options on our Sponsorship page. Anyone who wants to contribute without sponsorship benefits can visit Support SOET.

How can fans support the awards?

Follow Sounds of East Texas, share the awards with Texas music communities, submit eligible people or work when nominations open, and support the artists and venues you enjoy.