Real Songwriters of Melbourne unveils 2023 Award Winners in a triumph of diversity and talent
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17.11.2023

Real Songwriters of Melbourne unveils 2023 Award Winners in a triumph of diversity and talent

Photo by Lucinda Goodwin.
Words by Staff Writer

Celebrating the achievements of RSOM and the entire Community.

The vibrant sounds of Melbourne took center stage at the 2023 RSOM Awards, where the Real Songwriters of Melbourne proudly presented this year’s outstanding winners. It was a night of celebrating not just musical prowess but also the rich diversity, growth, and talent thriving within the Melbourne community.

The Real Songwriters of Melbourne is an independent organisation that seeks to celebrate, support and develop emerging songwriters, and the RSOM Awards have become an annual celebration, honouring those who not only leave an indelible mark on their own careers but also contribute significantly to the local community and the broader music industry.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

This year’s nominations showcased a commitment to inclusivity, with a majority of finalists being women and non-binary individuals, alongside neurodivergent and LGBTQIA community representatives. The public played a pivotal role in shaping the list of nominees for three out of four awards, resulting in a shortlist that beautifully reflects the kaleidoscopic diversity of Melbourne’s music scene.

The ‘2023, I’m Free’ Spotify playlist, featuring 75 new releases from the community, set the stage for this musical extravaganza. The Top 5 Songs of the Year, as voted by the community, received special recognition.

The awards went to:

  • RSOM Outstanding Achievement Award: Shani Weiss
  • RSOM Community Award: Mister Co.
  • RSOM Songwriter of the Year (NEW): Kitty Rae
  • RSOM Top 5 Songs of the Year:
    • ‘Dance With Me’ – Madam Nightingale
    • ‘Don’t Talk About It’ – Mister Co.
    • ‘Noreen’ – Magdalia
    • ‘Spend A Little Time With Me’ – Rance Lazarus
    • ‘The Finest Day’ – Coconut Shy
    • ‘Want Me Too’ – Hazel Sea & Munya Matema (A bonus award was presented due to a tie)

Now, RSOM eagerly anticipates entering its 10th year in 2024, continuing to champion and amplify the vibrant voices of local Melbourne music. We can’t wait to see what they do from here.

Find out more about Real Songwriters of Melbourne here