International Portuguese Music Awards Launch Party set for Dec. 9. Who will be performing?

PROVIDENCE – Olavo Bilac’s raspy timbre has earned him the accolade of having one of the most unmistakable voices in Portuguese music.

The lead singer of the legendary Portuguese rock band Santos e Pecadores will be performing at the 2024 International Portuguese Music Awards Launch Party on Saturday, Dec. 9 in Providence.

“During this event, we will reveal our ambitious plans and artistic visions for IPMA 2024,” said IPMA David Saraiva, who co-produces the IPMAs with José “Zack” Xavier and Manuel da Costa. “As a native of Rhode Island, I couldn’t be prouder that we’re able to host this internationally televised and acclaimed event right here in Providence again. It’s a testament to the cultural richness and diversity that the state has to offer.”

Known for fusing soul and funk into their rock songs, Santos e Pecadores enjoyed a number of great commercial successes, spawning hits like “Não Voltarei a Ser Fiel” and “Fala-me de Amor.”

Olavo Bilac was also a member of Resistência, one of the most emblematic Portuguese music bands of the first half of the 90s, which brought together singers and musicians from different successful bands under a super group that was responsible for unforgettable hits like “Não sou o Único,” “Nasce Selvagem” and “Amanhã é Sempre Longe Demais.”

In 2014, he began his solo music career with “Músicas do Meu Mundo,” where he explored different sounds from the Lusophone world, mixing several styles of music such as samba and bossa, morna, fado and ballad.

He subsequently released other solo projects, which included songs such as “Estou Aqui” and “1001 Razões.”

Where will the 2024 IPMA Launch Party take place?

The IPMA recognize outstanding achievement in the music industry by international artists of Portuguese ancestry.

The 2024 IPMA Launch Party will take place at 8 p.m. at the Grand Lobby of the Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., Providence.

The event will serve to announce the full details for the 12th annual IPMA show, including date, venue and performer line-up.

“We warmly invite potential sponsors to contact us and become a part of this extraordinary event, where we collectively share our dedication to promoting Portuguese culture and global talent,” Saraiva said.

How much are the launch party tickets and what’s included?

Guests will enjoy an acoustic performance by Olavo Bilac, followed by entertainment from DJ Son & DJ Prince of Phoenix Productions.

Appetizers/ hors-d'œuvres will be served from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will feature a cash bar.

Tickets are $50. For more information and tickets, please visit the IPMAs website at ipmaawards.com.

Submissions for IPMA nominations accepted until Nov. 30

Submissions for the 2024 IPMA awards are now being accepted.

“The submission deadline for IPMA 2024 is fast approaching,” stressed Saraiva. “Please ensure that your entries are submitted by Nov. 30 to be considered for an IPMA 2024 nomination.”

Songs and videos released between Dec. 1, 2022 and Nov. 30, 2023 by artists of Portuguese descent are eligible.

Awards will be presented in a wide spectrum of genres, ranging from Fado and Música Popular (Folk Music) to rock, dance and hip hop. Awards will also be presented for Song of the Year, Video of the Year and New Talent.

For a complete list of rules and regulations, visit https://ipmaawards.com/about-us/#rules-regulations

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: 2024 IPMA Launch Party set for Dec. 9. Who will be performing?