Asbury Park Music Awards

Returning February 20, 2026 • The Stone Pony

Poster for Asbury Park Music Awards on a collage background with stickers. Nominations open 10/27/25. Save the date 2/20/26.

The Asbury Park Music Awards are back! APMF is reigniting one of our city’s most beloved traditions, running from 1993 through 2018, the event celebrates the artists who keep Asbury’s legendary music scene alive while also raising funds to provide life-changing music education to under-served youth in our community.

After a seven-year hiatus, this landmark event returns on Friday, February 20, 2026, at The Stone Pony, presented by the Asbury Park Music Foundation. Nominations open October 28, 2025, and close November 16, 2025. Finalists will be selected by a panel of local music community members. Finalists will be selected by a panel of local music community members, with input from fans and local musicians.

2025–26 Awards

This year’s program will honor standout talent across Asbury Park’s vibrant music scene, including:

In January, a series of showcase events across Asbury Park venues will feature nominated artists. Final voting will combine input from the judging committee, fans, and fellow musicians, culminating in the February 20 awards show.

Follow Along

Stay connected for updates, nomination announcements, and pre-award event details:

Instagram: @APMusicAwards

Support the Return of the AMAs

Proceeds from the 2025–26 Asbury Park Music Awards will directly support APMF’s mission to provide life-changing music education for under-resourced youth across Monmouth County.

We invite sponsors, community partners, and volunteers to be part of this historic return. Your support helps fund music scholarships, in-school programs, and mentorship opportunities that give every student a chance to shine.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact:
Nancy Brady, Executive Director
nancy@apmusicfoundation.org

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When do tickets go on sale?
  • Tickets go on sale November 6 via Ticketmaster and The Stone Pony box office. Buy here: [Ticket Link]. Box office details: [Box Office Link]. Price: [Price TBA].
  • When do nominations open and close?
  • Nominations open October 27, 2025, and close November 16, 2025.
  • Who can submit a nomination?
  • Anyone can nominate themselves or others. So fans, artists, venues, and industry members are welcome to make nominations. Each form allows only one nomination at a time, however multiple nominations can be made for different artists and/or different categories. Nominations will be screened and qualified to include only artists tied to Asbury Park. Submit here: [Nomination Forms Link].
  • Is there a fee to nominate?
  • No. Nominations are free.
  • What are the eligibility rules?
  • Nominees should have a strong connection to the Asbury Park music community. Specific criteria for each category will be listed on the nomination forms.
  • Can I nominate myself or my band?
  • Yes. Self-nominations are welcome if you meet eligibility.
  • Can I nominate in more than one category?
  • Yes, as long as each nomination meets that category’s criteria. Complete a separate form for each.
  • What categories are included this year?
  • There are multiple awards within the categories of New Music of the Year, Artist of the Year, Musician of the Year, Genre-Based Performer of the Year, and The Gap Years Award honoring music released between 2019 and 2024. See the full list: [Full Category List Link].
  • How are finalists selected?
  • A panel of community members active in the local music industry will review all eligible nominations to narrow the list for voting. Criteria varies by category and includes a combination of audience interest (stream counts, social followers, social engagement), presence in the AP community, music/video content, performance frequency and draw, and/or the appeal of music releases.
  • How does voting work after finalists are named?
  • Final voting will combine input from the judging committee, fans, and fellow musicians. Voting details will be posted when finalists are announced.
  • When are finalists announced?
  • Finalists will be announced in December 2025. Follow @APMusicAwards for updates.
  • When and where are the pre-award showcases?
  • January showcases across Asbury Park venues will feature nominated artists. Dates and lineups will be announced soon. Attendees at the event will get to vote. Follow @APMusicAwards on Instagram for updates
  • When do tickets go on sale?
  • Tickets go on sale November 6 via Ticketmaster and The Stone Pony box office. Buy here: [Ticket Link]. Box office details: [Box Office Link]. Price: [Price TBA].
  • Who will perform at the Asbury Awards show?
  • Performers will primarily include current award nominees, along with some past award winners. These will be announced throughout December and January.
  • What time do doors open and the show start?
  • Doors and show times will be posted with the ticket listing and emailed to ticket holders. Please check [Ticket Link] for the latest.
  • Is there an age restriction?
  • The Stone Pony is an all-ages venue unless otherwise noted. The AP Awards Show will admit all ages, but every person entering the venue needs their own ticket.
  • Is the event accessible?
  • Yes. The Stone Pony offers accessible entry and viewing. For specific accommodations, email [access@apmusicfoundation.org] at least 72 hours before the event.
  • Who is presenting the event now?
  • The Awards are produced by the Asbury Park Music Foundation (APMF) with the blessing of The Saint, the longtime host.
  • Can media request credentials?
  • Yes. Media inquiries and credential requests: jiml@aparkmusicfoundation.com.
  • How can I sponsor or partner?
  • We’re seeking sponsors, community partners, and volunteers. Contact Nancy Brady at nancy@apmusicfoundation.org or start here: [Sponsorship Info Link].
  • Where do proceeds go?
  • Proceeds support APMF programs that provide life-changing music education, scholarships, and mentoring for under-resourced youth across Monmouth County.
  • What is The Gap Years Award?
  • A special category recognizing music released between 2019 and 2024 during the hiatus.
  • How do I stay updated?
  • Follow @APMusicAwards on Instagram for finalist announcements, showcases, and day-of details.

About the Awards

Founded in 1991 by Scott Stamper and Peter Mantas of The Saint, the Asbury Park Music Awards have long been a cornerstone of local music culture. Known as “the Heart of the Asbury Music Scene,” The Saint closed in 2022, and this year founder Scott Stamper has officially passed the torch to APMF, with his full support, to continue the tradition.

Now under the stewardship of APMF, the Asbury Park Music Awards celebrate the originality, creativity, and collaboration that define this community.