Award Shows to Watch at The 2026 NAMM Show
Imd Cred: The NAMM Show
The 2026 NAMM Show is shaping up to include several major award ceremonies that highlight different corners of the music and pro audio industry. From live production and recording technology to artist recognition and retail excellence, these events take place across Anaheim and nearby venues during the week of NAMM. Below is a preview of the key award shows announced so far, along with dates and locations to help with planning.
TEC Awards, Bass Magazine Awards, and Live Production Honors
The 41st Annual NAMM TEC Awards return on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the Hilton Anaheim’s Pacific Ballroom. Presented by NAMM, the TEC Awards recognize achievements in recording, live sound, film, television, gaming, and multimedia. Over the years, honorees have included figures such as Les Paul, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, Chuck D, and Jack White. This year, Billy Corgan is set to receive the Innovation Award. Attendance is handled through the standard NAMM registration process, with the option to add the awards during or after badge registration.
Also taking place on Thursday, January 22, the Bass Magazine Awards will be held at The Observatory in Santa Ana, a short drive from the NAMM campus. The event focuses on bass players and low-end innovators, combining award presentations with live performances and guest appearances. Tickets are limited due to the venue size, making early planning important for those interested in attending.
The Parnelli Awards follow on Saturday, January 24, honoring professionals in live event production. The ceremony recognizes individuals and teams responsible for concert touring, staging, lighting, and sound. Tickets are available in advance and are positioned as a central gathering for live production professionals during the show week.
She Rocks and NAMM Retail Awards
The 14th Annual She Rocks Awards take place on Friday, January 23, celebrating women across music, production, and the broader industry. Hosted by Vicki Peterson and Mixi Demner, the 2026 honorees include Carnie Wilson, Rachel Platten, Sophie Burrell, Judith Hill, Rhonda Smith, Kay Hanley, Michelle Lewis, Lisa MacDonald, and Heather Rafter. The event combines award presentations with live performances and is open to the public, with tickets available separately from NAMM registration.
Kicking off the week on Wednesday, January 21, the newly rebranded NAMM Retail Awards recognize excellence in music retail. Formerly known as the Top 100 Dealer Awards, the updated name reflects changes in the retail landscape and the strategies used by modern music product retailers. An independent panel selects the Top 100 finalists, from which nine category winners and one Retailer of the Year are chosen. Attendance is handled through the NAMM registration system, with the awards available as an add-on event.
Together, these award shows form a major part of the 2026 NAMM Show schedule, offering industry recognition, networking opportunities, and live programming spread across multiple nights.
