Well, folks, sometimes life throws you a curveball—a glorious, unexpected, pinch-me-I-must-be-dreaming kind of curveball. Last week, that curveball landed me smack-dab in the middle of the prestigious AMA UK Awards 2025 ceremony in London!
It all started with a tap on the shoulder at the UK Americana Music Week reception on Monday night. Jim Walker of THE AMA UK approached me, asking if I, Dietmar Leibecke, humble director of the Static Roots Festival, would be willing to present an award at the awards show. "A very well-respected German promoter and festival producer," he called me. (Blushing intensifies!)
Of course, I accepted! To be recognized by the UK Americana community and given the opportunity to present the prestigious "UK Artist of the Year" award was an incredible honor. It felt like years of hard work, passion, and dedication to building Static Roots were finally being acknowledged on a grand stage.
And the winner? None other than the amazing Hannah White, who, along with her partner Keiron Marshall, delivered an unforgettable performance at Static Roots Festival 2024! Hannah also took home the award for "UK Album of the Year," while Keiron was crowned "UK Instrumentalist of the Year." Talk about a Static Roots sweep! This is a testament to the incredible talent we showcase and the discerning taste of our beloved Static Roots family.
More AMA UK Awards 2025
But the magic didn't stop there. The award for "UK Song of the Year" went to the brilliant Rob Vincent for his soul-stirring anthem, "Follow What You Love And Love Will Follow." And that, my friends, is the very essence of Static Roots. We follow our passion for authentic roots music, and you, our incredible community, pay us back with your love, support, and unwavering enthusiasm.
This whole experience has been a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, gratitude, and a deep sense of pride in what we've created with Static Roots. It's a reminder that when you pour your heart and soul into something you believe in, amazing things can happen. And it reaffirms that the Static Roots family is more than just a group of music lovers; it's a force to be reckoned with, a beacon of passion and community in the ever-evolving world of music.
So, here's to following what you love, to celebrating the artists who inspire us, and to the incredible journey that is Static Roots Festival. We can't wait to see what the future holds!