NSW Makes History with inaugural Music Prize
Speed, the flute-wielding hardcore band based in Sydney, has claimed the inaugural New South Wales Music Prize, taking home a generous $80,000 prize. The award spotlights Australia’s dynamic state-wide music scene and recognizes the impact of innovative, boundary-pushing work like Speed’s debut album, Only One Mode, released in 2024.
What The Prize Means for NSW Artists
The New South Wales Government introduced the prize to celebrate creativity across all genres and to provide a springboard for artists facing the financial challenges of touring, recording, and releasing music. An $80,000 boost can influence everything from studio time to production quality, touring logistics, and the ability to connect with larger audiences. For NSW performers, the prize signals a rare commitment to long-term career development within the Australian music industry.
Speed’s Breakout Debut
Only One Mode, Speed’s 2024 debut, blends relentless hardcore energy with elements of experimental woodwind textures, creating a distinctive sonic fingerprint. The album’s reception among critics and fans alike highlighted the band’s willingness to push past conventional genre boundaries while maintaining an intense live presence. The award recognizes not just the record’s sonic ambition but its execution, from musicianship to production choices that showcase a mature, original vision.
What Sets Speed Apart
Key factors in Speed’s win include exceptional musicianship, bold experimentation, and an ability to translate a studio concept into captivating live performances. The use of flute and other uncommon textures in a hardcore context has helped Speed carve out a niche that also broadens the appeal of NSW music to diverse audiences. This victory underscores how the region’s creative ecosystems reward risk-taking and collaborative artistry.
The Prize’s Impact on the NSW Music Scene
Beyond the trophy and prize money, the NSW Music Prize aims to amplify the stories of local artists and provide a platform for future collaborations. For the broader community, the prize emphasizes that New South Wales is a dynamic hub for contemporary music—one where genres collide and new voices gain visibility. The award also brings media attention, festival bookings, and potential partnerships that can sustain a band’s trajectory well beyond a single release.
What Comes Next for Speed
With substantial prize money in hand, Speed can invest in new recordings, refine touring schedules, and collaborate with producers who can help take Only One Mode to wider audiences. Fans can expect follow-up performances that highlight the band’s evolving sound, along with opportunities to bring their distinctive flute-driven approach to stages across Australia and beyond. The win is a strong signal that the NSW music community is eager to support artists who push creative boundaries while delivering high-energy, memorable live experiences.
Conclusion
The inaugural NSW Music Prize, bolstered by an $80,000 prize, marks a landmark moment for local music. Speed’s victory with Only One Mode not only honors a bold debut but also reinforces the state’s commitment to nurturing innovation, supporting artists financially, and elevating New South Wales on the national and international music map.
