Best song in languages other than English
Definitions:
- This Award recognises an outstanding song in languages other than English played in any folk music genre.
- The nominating artist(s) does not need to be a member of the Folk Alliance Australia.
Award Eligibility Criteria
- Language Requirement – The song must be at least 50% in a language other than English. Bilingual songs will be eligible if they meet this threshold.
2. Lyrics Required – The song must have lyrical content; instrumental pieces are not eligible.
3. An original lyrical composition in a non-English language(s),
4. Consideration of Authenticity – Judges may take into account the artist’s connection to the language and culture represented in the song.
5. Appropriation Safeguards – Songs should be performed with cultural integrity. While anyone can sing in another language, the criteria should ensure respectful engagement rather than appropriation.
Judging Criteria (4-6 Key Areas)
Judges will score songs based on the following weighted criteria:
1. Musicality & Performance – How well the song is composed, arranged, and performed
2. Lyrical Strength – The quality of storytelling, poetry, or meaning in the lyrics (with translations provided for reference).
3. Cultural & Linguistic Integrity – How well the song reflects the linguistic and cultural tradition it represents.
4. Innovation & Creativity – How the song contributes something unique to Australian folk music while staying true to its roots.
5. Emotional & Narrative Impact – How effectively the song engages and resonates with listeners.
- The song needs to have been recorded or composed in the time period of 1st July 2024 to 31st July 2025
Nomination/Entry Fee
- No Nomination is required to be paid at the time of the entry.
Nomination for Zulya Kamalova Award – Best song in Languages other than English
- All Nominations must be made via the online Entry Form
- All questions must be completed and information supplied in the format designated. Your application may be invalid if all information is not submitted in the correct format.
- You may nominate for more than one AFMA Award (if applicable a separate fee must be paid)
- Nominations open in June and close on 12 Midnight Thursday 31st July 2025 EST.
- Late entries will not be accepted.
- The nominated artist/songwriter for Zulya Kamalova Award must currently reside in Australia.
- Parental Permission must be submitted for nominations of persons under the age of 18 years.
- Once you have submitted your nomination entry you will receive a confirmation email.
- Awards are decided by a panel of selected judges with expertise in folk music and the folk music sector. Their decisions are deemed final. No correspondence will be entered into.
- Five (5) Finalists will be selected to be featured at the AFMA AWARDS event (Wed 22nd October) at The Brunswick Ballroom in Melbourne)
- Names of Finalists will be announced on 1st September 2025. Finalists may be required to provide additional media information/images.
- All recordings must fulfill legal requirements meaning songwriters have been properly credited and appropriate royalties have been paid
- AWARD
- The Zulya Kamalova Award winner will receive support from FAA and partner organisations and folk festivals. (which may include any or all of the following:- recording / festival appearances / travel support)
NOMINATION FORM
This Form must be submitted before midnight on Thursday 31st July 2025 EST.