Three of British Columbia’s top independent music industry leaders are returning from Los Angeles, where they were nominated for 2016 Grammy Awards.

Smithers resident Alex Cuba was nominated for Best Latin Pop Album for his album “Healer” at Monday night’s Awards. This is Cuba’s second time receiving a nomination in this category since 2011. Vancouver producer Kevin Howes and audio engineer Greg Mindorff received a nomination in the category of Best Historical Album for the collection of indigenous folk, rock and country music titled “Native North America, 1966-1985, Volume One”.

British Columbia has a large and diverse talent pool of artists who are known for producing all genres of music including pop, rock, classical, blues, folk and jazz. Music develops culture, promotes talent and diversifies B.C.’s growing economy. There are an estimated 6,425 artists in the province. This number includes 5,825 singers or musicians and 600 conductors, composers and arrangers.

British Columbia has the third-largest concentration of independent labels, sound recording studios and other music businesses in Canada. The music industry in British Columbia is made up of 58 independent record labels, 123 sound recording studios and hundreds of music publishers, managers, talent agencies and marketers as well as other businesses that support the development and delivery of music.

The music industry in British Columbia delivers significant tourism benefits. Visitors spend on concerts and music festivals, food and beverage purchases, hotel accommodations, local attractions and more.

Last week, Premier Christy Clark announced a $15-million grant to support the establishment of a BC Music Fund that will help grow and promote the Province’s already flourishing music industry.

This fund will be administered through Creative BC, and support will focus on services toward sound recording, live music performances, distant location tour development, music tour strategy and industry development.

Quote:

Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour –

“Congratulations to all three nominees for their exceptional achievement! These British Columbians are an example of the amazing musical talent we have across our province that contributes to the cultural fabric of B.C. The recently announced BC Music Fund will help to further support artists and technicians like Alex, Kevin and Greg from anywhere in the province.”

Learn More:

Creative BC: http://www.creativebc.com

BC Creative Economy: http://www.gov.bc.ca/creativeeconomy

Alex Cuba: http://healer.alexcuba.com/