BritAsia TV hosted their annual BritAsia Awards Saturday, October 1. Leading up to the event, fans were asked to vote for their favorite acts. The results are truly a reflection of fan favs because not all the deserving candidates won.
Best Newcomer: Garry Sandhu
Garry has had a big year with great songs, well selected features, and brilliant videos. Arjun would be my close second because his music and swag are phenomenal.
Best International Award: Satinder Sartaaj
I am very pleased that Sartaaj is getting recognition on the western scene and Miss Pooja isn’t the only name getting love.
Non “Asian Music” Producer: Kray Twinz
Not much to say here except there has to be a better title for this category.
Best Video: Pumbeeri
I think here the fun of the flashmob video trumped the full video productions of the other videos. “Sahan To Pyariya” Was a great video with music and a story all effortlessly sewn together.
Best Male Act: Garry Sandhu
Agreed
Best Female Act: Preeya Kalidas
I have no idea why the Desi scene kisses the ground Preeya walks on. Kee was on one of the biggest tracks of the year and Nindy Kaur has been to Bollywood and back with solo music. People always wonder why the ladies are a quite force on the Urban Desi scene…this is one reason why. No love for them.
Best Band: Jazzy B
Malkit Sigh performed at Lincoln Center, New York City. What did Jazzy B do?
Best Urban Asian Act: The Truth
I think every artist was deserving. The Truth dropped a few videos and tracks this year and has announced a couple collaborations so I’m proud of him on this win.
Best Single: Moorni
Agreed, a Bhangra tune that sounded nothing like the rest!
Best Album: Gabru Panjab Dha
JK is doing very well with his music in the U.K. and he embodies real Punjabi culture with his music.
Best “Asian Music” Producer: Panjabi MC
I liked The Raj, DJ Sanj was also a real contender.
Best Club DJ: DJ Kayper
DJ Kayper is the only Desi on the list I see as a club DJ who scratches and entertains.
Best Alternate Act: Nasha Experience
Best Songwriter : Satinder Sartaaj
Lifetime Achievement Award: Bhujhangy Group
My final thoughts are that the awards highlighted and focused more Bhangra, Punjabi acts. I think there needs to be an expansion of the Urban, Hip-Hop Desi scenes and a better platform for them to get some recognition and appreciation.
