Estonian Music Awards

Last updated
Eesti Muusikaauhinnad
Country Estonia
Presented byEstonian Association of the Phonogram Producers
First award1998
Website www.muusikaauhinnad.eu

The Estonian Music Awards (Estonian : Eesti Muusikaauhinnad) is an annual non-profit gala concert with the goal of recognizing outstanding Estonian musicians and popularising Estonian music. The concert is organized and the awards are presented by the Estonian Association of the Phonogram Producers (EFÜ). The awards ceremony is broadcast on television. [1]

Contents

The awards began in 1998, when the EFÜ first awarded the Golden Record (Estonian : Kuldne Plaat) to the most successful artists. In 1998–1999, the Golden Records Music Awards was presented in cooperation with the Estonian Authors' Association and the Estonian Performers' Association.

In 2000, the logo and name of the award were changed. Artists were selected based on the voting results of juries – which included music editors, presenters, music teachers, musicians, DJs, concert organizers, producers, etc. In six categories, juries of 100 members were formed, and in three categories, juries of up to 15 members were formed. In addition, nominees and laureates were selected based on rankings. [2]

Categories

Below are the current categories as of 2025. [1]

  1. Album of the Year
  2. Debut Album of the Year
  3. Female Artist of the Year
  4. Male Artist of the Year
  5. Ensemble of the Year
  6. Jazz Album of the Year
  7. Ethno/Folk/Folk Album of the Year
  8. Original Song Album of the Year
  9. Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the year
  10. Soul/Funk/R'n'B Artist of the Year
  11. Metal Album of the Year
  12. Rock Album of the Year
  13. Classical Album of the Year – the nominees for the category "Classical Album of the Year" are the albums that received the most votes in each classical genre category.
    • Solo or Chamber Music Album of the Year
    • Orchestra or Stage Music Album of the Year
    • Choral Music Album of the Year
    • Estonian Composition Album of the Year
  14. Song of the Year
  15. Music Video of the Year
  16. Contribution to Estonian Music

History

1998

Estonian phonogram producers first felt the need to recognize the best of Estonian pop music by creating the Estonian Pop Music Annual Awards Golden Disc in 1998, when the most successful artists were awarded the Estonian Pop Music Annual Awards Golden Record 1998. The awards ceremony took place and was recorded at the Estonian Television (ETV) studio on December 29, 1998, and aired as a 40-minute television program two days later, on the last day of the year. [3]

The 1998 awards were presented in 9 categories: Most Successful Female Singer, Most Successful Male Singer, Most Successful Ensemble, Most Successful Debut, The Most Successful Record Company, Most played radio hit, The most played hit in dance halls, Album of the Year, and Music Video of the Year. In addition, one special award was given: Best Police Officer in the Fight Against Piracy in 1998. [3]

1999

The Estonian Pop Music Annual Awards Golden Disc 1999 Gala took place at the Tallinn nightclub “Venus” on March 3, 2000. It was broadcast live by both ETV and Raadio 2. In 1999, the award categories were renamed as an innovation and two new categories were added – Album Design of the Year and Contribution to Estonian Pop Music. [3]

The 1999 awards were presented in 10 categories: Male Artist of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Radio Hit of the Year, Dance Hit of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Record Label of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Album of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Pop Music. [3]

2000

In 2000, the event was renamed to Estonian Music Awards (Estonian : Eesti Muusikaauhinnad). The difference compared to the two previous years is that the EFÜ started to determine the nominees and winners based on the jury voting results from 2000. [3]

Impartial juries of 100 members were formed in six categories. Nominees and laureates were determined based on rankings. The juries consisted of individuals active in various fields of music in Estonia (for example, music editors, presenters, teachers, musicians, DJs, concert organizers, producers, etc.). For the first time, a comprehensive set of rules for music awards was also developed, which included the conditions for nomination, criteria for determining nominees and winners, and the composition and work of the juries. When determining nominees and winners, the jury members had to take into account, among other things, the following criteria - sales success, the idea and execution of the performance or music video or album design, playability on radio and television, the success of concerts, and the impact on Estonian music in general and more broadly. [3]

At the award ceremony held on March 3, 2001 at the Decolte nightclub. New awards were added that included multiple genres of music, rather than just pop music, including ethno/folk, jazz/blues and classical music categories. One of the special awards recognized the fight against piracy – the Music Supporter of the Year award was given to Äripäev journalist Peep Sooman for his articles on piracy. [3]

Cooperation with ETV and Raadio 2 continued, both of which broadcast the event live, providing extensive advance advertising for the event in the form of commercials, interviews, etc. The 2000 awards were presented in 14 categories: Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Classical Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Radio Hit of the Year, Dance Hit of the Year, Record Label of the Year, Music Supporter of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2001

The Estonian Music Awards 2001 took place on March 3rd at Saku Suurhall. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Dance Artist of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Classical Artist of the Year, Alternative Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Radio Hit of the Year, Dance Hit of the Year, Artist of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2002

There was no award ceremony in 2002, likely due to the Eurovision Song Contest 2002 being held in Tallinn.

2003

The Estonian Music Awards 2003 took place on March 15th at the Saku Suurhall. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Dance Artist of the Year, Jazz Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Alternative Artist of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Hit Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Artist of the Year, Foreign Artist of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2004

The Estonian Music Awards 2004 took place on March 3, 2004 at the Sokos Hotel Viru. The awards ceremony was broadcast live by TV3. Awards were presented in 13 categories: Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Alternative Artist of the Year, Classical Artist of the Year, Hit Song of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music, Artist of the Year. [3]

2005

On March 2, the Estonian Music Awards 2005 were presented at Club Parlament. In addition to the award ceremony, Koer, Toe Tag, Soul Militia, Cool D, Julia Boman and Slobodan River performed. Awards were presented in 16 categories: Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Album of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, HipHop/RnB Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, Metal/Punk Artist of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Hit Song of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2006

On March 19, 2006, the Estonian Music Awards 2006 were presented at the Vanemuine Concert Hall. Awards were presented in 17 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Rock Artist of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, HipHop/RnB Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, Metal/Punk Artist of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Hit Song of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2007

At the Estonian Music Awards 2007, awards were presented in 15 categories: Album of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, HipHop/RnB Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, Metal/Punk Artist of the Year, Rock Artist of the Year, Jazz Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Art of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Hit Song of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2008

The annual music awards were presented at the A.Le Coq Live Estonian Music Awards 2008 gala concert, held at the Pärnu Concert Hall on April 1. Various artists took to the stage with programs and lineups specially created for the evening. The evening was hosted by Hannes Võrno and the event was broadcast live by TV3. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, HipHop/RnB Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, Metal/Punk Artist of the Year, Rock Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Hit Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2009

The A. Le Coq Live Estonian Music Awards 2009 gala took place on March 19 at the Russian Theatre. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, HipHip/RnB Artist of the Year, Metal Artist of the Year, Rock Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, People's Choice of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2010

The A. Le Coq Live Estonian Music Awards 2010 gala took place on February 25 at the Nokia Concert Hall. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, HipHop/RnB Artist of the Year, Metal/Punk Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Rock Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Audience Favorite, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2011

The A. Le Coq Live Estonian Music Awards 2011 gala was held at the Nokia Concert Hall and featured performances by Koit Toome, The Sun, Metsatöll ja Zetod, Ott Lepland, Lenna, Liisi Koikson, Singer Vinger and Ultima Thule. Scandinavian rock band Sunrise Avenue introduced themselves to the Estonian audience for the first time. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Jazz Artist of the Year, Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year, Electronic Artist of the Year, HipHop Artist of the Year, Metal Artist of the Year, Rock Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Contribution to Estonian music. [3]

2012

The Estonian Music Awards 2012 gala took place on February 2 at the Nokia Concert Hall. Awards were presented in 15 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Contribution to Estonian music. [3]

2013

The Estonian Music Awards 2013 gala took place on February 14. Põhja-Tallinn won the most awards with three trophies, while Vaiko Eplik and Ott Lepland each took home two awards. Iiris was named Female Artist of the Year and Ott Lepland was named Male Artist of the Year. The latter also won the title of Pop Album of the Year. The most valuable trophy of the Estonian Music Awards, Album of the Year, was won by Vaiko Eplik for his album Varielu . Vaiko Eplik also won the Rock Album of the Year award. The high recognition, Contribution to Estonian Music, was awarded to well-known music figure Anne Erm. The jury awarded the Best Song of the Year award to Lenna for her song Mina jään (I'll Stay), and the Music Video of the Year went to Kerli. Black Velvet, Iiris, Ott Lepland, Tiger Milk, Vaiko Eplik, Lenna, Tenfold Rabbit and Põhja-Tallinn performed at the gala. [3]

Awards were presented in 16 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Album of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2014

The 2014 Estonian Music Awards was held on January 30, 2014 at the Nokia Concert Hall. Birgit Õigemeel and Vallatud Vestid, Facelift Deer, Kerli, Kõrsikud, HU?, Lenna, Metsakutsu and Grete Paia, Winny Puhh, Karl-Erik Taukar and Anne Veski performed. The jury awarded three artists the title of winner in more than one category: Kõrsikud, Facelift Deer, and Leslie Da Bass, who took home two awards each. [3]

Awards were presented in 19 categories: Album of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Album of the Year, Folk Album of the Year, Album Design of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2015

Curly Strings was the biggest winner at the Estonian Music Awards 2015, taking home four trophies. Karl-Erik Taukar, Maria Minerva and Trad.Attack! won in two categories each. The gala concert featured performances by Tanja, Ewert And The Two Dragons, Curly Strings, Karl-Erik Taukar, Elephants From Neptune, Genka & Paul Oja, and Getter Jaani & Risto Vürst. The evening was hosted by Ott Lepland and Ines. [3]

Awards were presented in 17 categories: Album of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Band of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2016

Elina Born was the biggest winner at the Estonian Music Awards 2016, taking home four trophies. Trad.Attack! won three awards, including Album of the Year. Karl-Erik Taukar, Liis Lemsalu, Justament, Jüri Pootsmann, Elina Born, Tanel Padar & The Sun, Cartoon, Trad.Attack!, Leslie Da Bass performed . The evening was hosted by Karl-Erik Taukar and Liis Lemsalu. [3]

Awards were presented in 17 categories: Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2017

The Estonian Music Awards 2017 gala took place on January 26. Karl-Erik Taukar was the most successful with three awards, while Kadri Voorand and Elephants From Neptune won two trophies. The awards ceremony was broadcast live by TV3. The evening was hosted by Tanja Mihhailova-Saar and Mikk Saar, who also made a surprise appearance on the show. The concert featured performances by Liis Lemsalu, Laura, Lenna, Metsakutsu, NOËP, I Wear* Experiment, Karl-Erik Taukar, Mick Pedaja, and Estonian Voices. [3]

2017 marked the first year that the Classical music genre was split into sub-genres. The nominees for the category "Classical Album of the Year" are the albums that received the most votes in each classical genre category: Solo or Chamber Music Album of the Year, Orchestra or Stage Music Album of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year, Estonian Composition Album of the Year. [3]

Awards were presented in 17 main categories: Album of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub categories: Composition Album of the Year, Chamber Music Albums of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year), Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2018

The Estonian Music Awards 2018 celebrated the ceremony's 20th anniversary with a gala held in the Saku Suurhall. The show offered several performances with special effects, and over 20 artists performed including 2 Quick Start, Trad.Attack!, Liis Lemsalu, Miljardid and NOËP. The Estonian hip-hop cannonball consisting of reket, Beebilõust, Arop, Genka and 5MIINUST surprised with a unique joint number. The gala was broadcast live on January 25 on Kanal 2. The evening was hosted by Eda-Ines Etti and Karl-Erik Taukar. The most successful winners were Miljardid with three awards, while Trad.Attack!, Liis Lemsalu and Erki Pärnoja each won two trophies. 2 Quick Starts were recognized with the Contribution to Estonian Music award. [3]

Awards were presented in 17 main categories: Album of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub categories: Composition Album of the Year, Chamber Music Albums of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year), Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2019

On January 24, the Estonian Music Awards 2019 were presented at Saku Suurhall. The evening was hosted by singer Triinu “Lepatriinu” Paomets and musician Reigo Ahven. The biggest winner of the evening was Ewert and The Two Dragons, who won in all three categories in which they were nominated. The musicians who performed at the gala included Kare Kauksi in the Mahavok lineup, NOËP, and a joint number by Bert on Beats and the ÖED ensemble. Notable moments include the performance of Rein Rannap and Ott Lepland together with the WAF Choir, and the Revals. In addition, Uudo Sepp, Maian, Lenna, Ewert and The Two Dragons, Duo Ruut, Talbot, Victor Crone and The Boondocks also performed. The event was broadcast live by Kanal2, Kanal11, Elmar and Elu24. [3]

A total of 17 categories were awarded: Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Album of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Band of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2020

Anna Kaneelina and nublu received the most awards at the Estonian Music Awards 2020 gala held at Saku Suurhall on January 24. The winners of the Estonian Music Awards were determined by a jury of nearly 160 members convened by the Estonian Phonogram Producers Association. The Artist of the Year was determined in a public vote conducted by Elu24 and the Estonian Music Awards. At the biggest music gala yet, 20 artists performed. These included the world premieres of Trad.Attack!'s new single "Tehke ruumi", Ariadne's new single "Queen Of My Own" and British rising star CHINCHILLA's new single "Cold Water". In addition, The Swingers performed a memorable pop song from the top five Estonian songs of the year and gave the show a 5MIINUST score with villemdrillem. The ensemble FIX was also seen on the gala stage. In addition, STEFAN, Liis Lemsalu, Anna Kaneelina, Rita Ray, Gram-of-Fun, Clicherik & Mäx, nublu and Isac Elliot performed special numbers. The evening was hosted by Trad.Attack!. The event was broadcast live by Kanal 11, Kanal 2, Elmar and Elu24. [3]

Awards were given out in a total of 18 categories: Debut Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub-categories: Composition Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year, Chamber Music Album of the Year), Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2021

At the Estonian Music Awards 2021 gala held on January 28, nublu received the most awards, winning six awards, including Debut Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Album of the Year. The Music Video of the Year win came for the song "Universum", which was made in collaboration with Mikael Gabriel and director Marta Vaarik. "Café Kosmos" was chosen as Album of the Year. Both Trad.Attack! and Anett were awarded two awards. The Best Song of the Year went to Trad.Attack!Armasta mind” (feat. Vaiko Eplik), and the band also won in the Ethno/Folk Album of the Year category. Anett was awarded the titles of Female Artist of the Year and Pop Artist of the Year. Over 150 jury members participated in selecting the winners. The Artist of the Year was determined as a result of a public vote conducted in cooperation with Elu24. Traditionally, the Contribution to Estonian Music award was also presented, which was received by the ensemble Ruja. Hosts Kaire Vilgats and Dagmar Oja performed an opening number from the Best Song of the Year nominees with Utopia Entertainment dancers and the Police and Border Guard Orchestra conducted by Siim Aimla. The gala evening also featured musical performances by Terminaator, 5MIINUST, pizza, nublu, Miljardid, Anett, Raul Ojamaa and NOËP. The event was broadcast live by Kanal 2 and Elu24. [3]

Awards were given out in a total of 19 categories: Debut Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Etno/Folk Album of the Year, Song of the Year/Folk Album, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Band of the Year, Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Best Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub-categories: Chamber Music Album of the Year, Composition Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year), Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2022

NOËP and Puuluup took home the most awards at the Estonian Music Awards 2022 gala held at the Alexela Concert Hall on 26.01.2022. NOËP, who received four awards, was victorious in the categories of Male Artist of the Year and Pop Artist of the Year, as well as in the categories of Debut Album of the Year and Album of the Year. The ensemble Puuluup was awarded two awards, winning in the categories of Band of the Year and Ethno/Folk Album of the Year. Singer YASMYN was awarded Female Artist of the Year. Tommy Cash won the Best Music Video award. A total of 190 jury members participated in selecting the winners. In addition, the Artist of the Year award was also presented, chosen by Kroonika readers – the winner was the band 5MIINUST. Continuing the tradition, the Contribution to Estonian Music Award was also presented, which was awarded to composer Mikk Targo. The event was broadcast live by Kanal 2, and for the first time, the show was also available to watch as an alternative online broadcast via the Elisa Stage platform. The gala evening was hosted by Liis Lemsalu and Daniel Levi Viinalass, who also performed an opening number. The performers at the gala were NOËP, 5MIINUST, Puuluup, Wateva, Genka, YASMYN and Gameboy Tetris. The performers were accompanied on stage by ÜENSO conductors Tõnno Piigli and Jüri-Ruut Kangur. [3]

Awards were given out in a total of 19 categories: Debut Album of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk Album of the Year, Song of the Year/Folk Album, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, ,Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub-categories: Chamber Music Album of the Year, Composition Album of the Year, Choir Music Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year), Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2023

At the Estonian Music Awards 2023 gala at the Unibet Arena, STEFAN picked up the most awards, winning a total of four titles in the categories of Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year. This year, the awards for Band of the Year and Debut Album of the Year went to Gram-Of-Fun, and Rita Ray was named Female Artist of the Year and won the Album of the Year award. The award for best music video went to nublu for the song "kastehein". This year, the Soul/Funk/R'n'B artist of the year was chosen for the first time, and Anett won with her album "Late to the Party". Nearly 200 jury members participated in selecting the winners. The winner of the Artist of the Year award was determined by a public vote on the Sky.ee portal, and STEFAN was chosen. The legendary Rock Hotel, whose music was performed on stage by Siim Aimla, Maarja, Tanel Padar, Ott Lepland, Robert Linna, Jaak Vasar, Eduard Akulin, Andrus Lillepea, Eric Kammiste, Joonas Mattias Sarapuu and Henno Kelp, was recognized for its contribution to Estonian music. The gala evening was hosted by 5MIINUST, who performed an opening number. The gala featured performances by nublu, Anett, Elephants From Neptune, STEFAN, Rita Ray and Gram-Of-Fun. [3]

Awards were given out in a total of 20 categories: Debut Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Songwriter's Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Soul/Funk/R'n'B Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Band of the Year, Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub-categories: Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year, Composition Album of the Year, Chamber Music Album of the Year, Choir Music Album of the Year), Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2024

At the grand gala of the Estonian Music Awards 2024 at the Unibet Arena, ALIKA was the overwhelming winner, winning a total of five titles in the categories of Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Debut Album of the Year, and Song of the Year. Bedwetters won three awards – Band of the Year, Rock Album of the Year and Music Video of the Year. NOËP was named both Male Artist of the Year and Pop Artist of the Year. 160 jury members participated in selecting the winners. The winner of the Artist of the Year award was determined by a public vote on the Sky.ee portal, and ALIKA was chosen. The award for Contribution to Estonian Music was given to pop music great, singer Marju Länik. The gala evening was hosted by Birgit Sarrap and STEFAN, who opened the evening with a performance. Performers included ALIKA, Bedwetters, NOËP, villemdrillem, Anett x Fredi, MARI KALKUN and Marju Länik. The live broadcast was on Kanal 2 and a special web program was broadcast on Delfi. [3]

Awards were given out in a total of 20 categories: Debut Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Songwriter's Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the Year, Soul/Funk/R'n'B Artist of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Metal Album of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub-categories: Solo or Chamber Music Album of the Year, Estonian Composition Album of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year), Contribution to Estonian Music. [3]

2025

The Estonian Music Awards 2025 grand gala at the Unibet Arena was won by 5MIINUST x Puuluup and nublu, who were both awarded a total of three titles. 5MIINUST x Puuluup took home the titles Album of the Year, Band of the Year and Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year. Pop Artist of the Year nublu also won the Song of the Year and Music Video of the Year categories with the song "push it" featuring maria kallastu. Mari Jürjens was awarded both Female Artist of the Year and Original Song Album of the Year. Florian Wahl received Male Artist of the Year and Alternative/Indie Album of the Year awards.The winners of the Estonian Music Awards were selected by a 159-member jury. The Music Video of the Year was determined by a public vote on the Delfi portal. The Contribution to Estonian Music award went to pop music hitmaker, songwriter, producer and musician  Sven Lõhmus. The gala evening was hosted by Anne Veski and the Bedwetters ensemble, who opened the evening with a special number. The performers were 5MIINUST x Puuluup, nublu and maria kallastu, Mari Jürjens, Vaiko Eplik & Eliit, Florian Wahl, villemdrillem  and JT Conception, among others. The live broadcast was via Kanal 2 and a special web program was broadcast on Delfi. [4]

Awards were given out in a total of 18 categories: Debut Album of the Year, Alternative/Indie Album of the Year, Songwriter's Album of the Year, Electronic Album of the Year, Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year, Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the Year, Jazz Album of the Year, Classical Album of the Year (Sub-categories: Solo or Chamber Music Album of the Year, Estonian Composition Album of the Year, Choral Music Album of the Year, Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year), Metal Album of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Rock Album of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Ensemble of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Contribution to Estonian Music. [4]

Winners

General Field Awards

Female Artist of the Year (1998, Since 2000)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
1998 Maarja Kaua veel [3]
2000 Ines Here For Your Love [3]
2001 Hedvig Hanson Tule mu juurde
2003 Liisi Koikson The Gemini Diaries
2004 Hedvig Hanson What Colour Is Love?
2005 Ines 15 magamata ööd
2006 Liisi Koikson Väike Järv
2007 Maarja and Rannap Läbi jäätund klaasi
2008 Laura Muusa
2009 Kerli Love is dead
2010 Birgit Õigemeel Teineteisel pool
2011 Lenna Lenna
2012 Liis Lemsalu Liis Lemsalu
2013 Iiris The Magic Gift Box
2014 Birgit Õigemeel Uus algus
2015 Maria Minerva Histrionic
2016 Elina Born Elina Born
2017 Kadri Voorand Armupurjus (esitab Kadri Voorand Quartet)
2018 Liis Lemsalu +1
2019 Lenna
2020 Anna Kaneelina Anna Kaneelina
2021 Anett Morning After
2022 YASMYN YASMYN
2023 Rita Ray A Life of Its Own
2024 ALIKA ALIKA
2025 Mari Jürjens … aga samas … [5]

Male Artist of the Year (Since 1998)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
1998 Mati Nuude Kutse tantsule nr. 8: Tulipunased roosid [3]
1999 Mati Nuude Kutse tantsule nr. 14: Viva šampanja
2000 Riho Sibul Poeet külmetab klaasmäel  
2001 Dave Benton From Monday to Sunday
2003 Karl Madis Tantsud vihmas
2004 Chalice Ühendatud inimesed
2005 Cool D Seenioride vabakava
2006 Cool D Tütar üksi kodus
2007 Allan Vainola Unenäopüüdjad
2008 Chalice Taevas ja perse
2009 Chalice Supervõimed
2010 Vaiko Eplik Neljas
2011 Orelipoiss Õnn
2012 Ott Lepland Laulan ma sind
2013 Ott Lepland Öö mu kannul käib
2014 Leslie Da Bass Times New Roman
2015 Karl-Erik Taukar Vääramatu jõud
2016 Jüri Pootsmann Jüri Pootsmann
2017 Karl-Erik Taukar Kaks
2018 Erki Pärnoja Efterglow
2019 nublu
2020 nublu
2021 nublu Café Kosmos
2022 NOËP No Man Is An Island
2023 STEFAN Hope
2024 NOËP Move Your Feet
2025 Karl Killing 37 [5]

Ensemble of the Year (Since 1998)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
1998 Terminaator Kuld [3]
1999 Caater Millennium: The Best of Caater Aasta Raadiohitt 2 Quick Start C’est La Vie
2000 Claire's Birthday Venus
2001 2 Quick Start Ühega miljoneist
2003 Dagö Toiduklubi
2004 Dagö Hiired tuules
2005 Toe Tag Legendaarne
2006 Tanel Padar & The Sun The Greatest Hits
2007 Tanel Padar & The Sun 100% rock’n’roll
2008 Vaiko Eplik & Eliit Vaiko Eplik & Eliit 2
2009 HU? Film
2010 Popidiot Antenna of Love
2011 Ultima Thule Jälgede jälgedes
2012 Ewert and The Two Dragons Good Man Down
2013 Põhja-Tallinn Per Aspera ad Astra
2014 Kõrsikud Heli jälgedes
2015 Curly Strings Üle ilma
2016 Trad.Attack! Ah!
2017 Elephants From Neptune Oh No
2018 Trad.Attack! Kullakarva
2019 Ewert and The Two Dragons
2020 Põhja Konn, Vox Clamantis, Estonian Cello Ensemble Hetk. InSpereiritud Tüürist
2021 Lexsoul Dancemachine Lexplosion II
2022 Puuluup Viimane suusataja
2023 Gram-Of-Fun To The Great Unknown
2024 Bedwetters It Is What It Is
2025 5MIINUST x Puuluup kannatused ehk külakiigel pole stopperit [5]

Album of the Year (1998–1999, Since 2005)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
1998Kuld Terminaator [3]
1999Millennium: The Best of Caater Caater
200515 magamata ööd Ines [3]
2006The Greatest Hits Tanel Padar & The Sun
2007100% rock’n’roll Tanel Padar & The Sun
2008 Muusa Laura
2009Film HU?
2010Ringrada Röövel Ööbik
2011Jälgede jälgedes Ultima Thule
2012 Good Man Down Ewert and The Two Dragons
20136 Varielu Vaiko Eplik
2014Teine Lenna
2015Üle ilma Curly Strings
2016Ah! Trad.Attack!
2017Kaks Karl-Erik Taukar
2018Kunagi läänes Miljardid
2019Hands Around the Moon Ewert and The Two Dragons
2020Anna Kaneelina Anna Kaneelina
2021Café Kosmos nublu
2022No Man Is An Island NOËP
2023A Life of Its Own Rita Ray
2024ALIKA ALIKA
2025kannatused ehk külakiigel pole stopperit 5MIINUST x Puuluup [5]

Debut Album of the Year (1998–2001, Since 2011)

Replaced by Newcomer of the Year in 2003-2010

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
1998Puudutus: Duetid Koit Toome [3]
1999Geisha Push Up
2000Venus Claire's Birthday
2001Woman Knows Tanel Padar & Speed Free
2011Lenna Lenna [3]
2012Wide awake Outloudz
2013Per Aspera ad Astra Põhja-Tallinn
2014Facelift Deer Facelift Deer
2015Üle ilma Curly Strings
2016Elina Born Elina Born
2017Patience I Wear* Experiment
2018Kunagi läänes Miljardid
2019TIKS 068 Sander Mölder
2020Anna Kaneelina Anna Kaneelina
2021Café Kosmos nublu
2022No Man Is An Island NOËP
2023To The Great Unknown Gram-Of-Fun
2024ALIKA ALIKA
202537 Karl Killing [5]

Music Video of the Year (Since 1998)

YearWinner (Music Video)ArtistDirectorRef
1998Kas sa kuuled? Cool D Masa [3]
1999 Diamond of Night Evelin Samuel & Camille Rando Pettai
2000Haiguste vältimine nende ennetamise teel Genialistid Ene Jakobi
2001Chillout Squad BetoonKing Ants-Martin Vahur
2003Over The Water Blue Alternature Rando Pettai
2004Tere Kertu Chupacabra Markko Karu
2005Gde respect? Skazo Masa
2006Pankrot Toe Tag Masa
2007Aitäh elu eest Cool D
2008That Dance Under Marie
2009 Walking on air Kerli
2010Hanging on Friday Popidiot
2011 Tea Party Kerli
2012 Good Man Down Ewert and The Two Dragons
2013 Zero Gravity Kerli
2014Tigerhead Iiris
2015Kuukene Trad.Attack! Martti Helde
2016Segased lood Karl-Erik Taukar Carolyn Niitla, Karel Otstavel, Fred Krieger
2017Winaloto Tommy Cash Tomas Tammemets
2018Surf Tommy Cash Tomas Tammemets
2019LITTLE MOLLY Tommy Cash Tommy Cash and Anna-Lisa Himma
2020für Oksana nublu x gameboy tetris Marta Vaarik
2021Universum nublu x Mikael Gabriel Marta Vaarik
2022Racked Tommy Cash Anna Himma
2023kastehein nublu Johannes Veski
2024Monsters Bedwetters
2025push it nublu feat. maria kallastu Johannes Magnus Aule [5]

Record Company of the Year (1998–2000)

YearWinnerRef
1998 Aidem Pot [3]
1999 Hitivabrik
2000 Records 2000

Radio Hit of the Year (1998–2001)

Replaced by Hit Song of the Year in 2003

YearWinner (Song)ArtistRef
1998Tantsin sinuga taevas Smilers [3]
1999C’est La Vie 2 Quick Start
2000 Once in a Lifetime Ines
2001Ühega miljoneist 2 Quick Start

Contribution to Estonia Music (Since 1999)

YearWinnerRef
1999 Uno Loop [3]
2000 Valter Ojakaär
2001 Vello Orumets
2003 Rein Rannap
2004 Gunnar Graps
2005 Tonis Mägi
2006 Marju Kuut
2007 Olav Ehala
2008 Ivo Linna
2009 Riho Onion
2010 Erkki-Sven Tüür
2011 Singer Vinger
2012 Kukerpillid
2013 Anne Erm
2014 Anne Veski
2015 Jaak Joala
2016 Justament
2017 Villu Tamme
2018 2 Quick Start
2019 Mahavok
2020 FIX
2021 Ruja
2022 Mikk Targo
2023 Rock Hotel
2024 Marju Lanik
2025 Sven Løhmus [5]

Album Design of the Year (1999–2001, 2003–2008, 2014)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistDesignersRef
1999Sit and Spin Mr. Lawrence Ervin Heigo Seppel

Herkki-Erich Merila

[3]
2000Müsteerium plaadimängijasVarious Artists
2001Patused mõtted INBoiler Asko Künnap / Zoom
Niiongi Jääboiler
2003Sabaga täht Eesti Keeled ja Jaak Johanson, Riho Sibul Martin Pütsep
2004Kohtumine Albertiga Urmas Alender Heino Prunsvelt
2005Tsaca Tsap Pastacas
2006Sula NYYD Ensemble ja ERSO, Helena Tulve Tuuli Aule
2007Telegramm Köök
2008Ei tea, kumb? Indigolapsed
2014Yaki-Läki Pastacas   [3]

Music Supporter of the Year (2000)

YearWinnerRef
2000 Peep Sooman [3]

Artist of the Year (2001–2006, 2020–2024)

YearArtistRef
2001 Terminaator   [3]
2003 Our Man
2004 Smilers
2005 Smilers
2006 Slide-Fifty
2020 5MIINUST [3]
2021 nublu
2022 5MIINUST
2023 STEFAN
2024 ALIKA

Hit Song of the Year (2003–2008)

Replaced by "Song of the Year" in 2011

YearWinner (Song)ArtistRef
2003Unistus/ As My Life Goes On Tanel Padar [3]
2004Leekiv armastus Genialistid ja Lea Liitmaa
200515 magamata ööd Ines
2006Kuu on päike Tanel Padar & The Sun
2007Kosk Vaiko Eplik ja Eliit
2008Absoluutselt Hannaliisa Uusma

Newcomer of the Year (2003–2010)

Replaced by Debut Album of the Year in 2011

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2003 Liisi Koikson The Gemini Diaries [3]
2004 Chalice Ühendatud inimesed
2005 Koer Pure
2006 Tanel Padar & The Sun The Greatest Hits
2007 Mari-Leen Rahutu tuhkatriinu
2008 Traffic Traffic
2009 HU? Film
2010 Chungin & The Strap-On Faggots Chungin & The Strap-On Faggots

Foreign Artist of the Year (2003)

YearArtistRef
2003 Eminem [3]

People's Choice of the Year (2009–2010)

This award was named "Audience Favorite" in 2010.

YearArtistAlbumRef
2009 Tanel Padar & The Sun Unisex [3]
2010 Shanon

Song of the Year (Since 2011)

From 2011-2021, this award was named "Best Song of the Year"

YearWinner (Song)ArtistRef
2011Rapunzel Lenna [3]
2012 Good Man Down Ewert and The Two Dragons
2013Mina jään Lenna
2014Meiecundimees üks Korsakov läks eile Lätti Winny Puhh
2015Kauges külas Curly Strings
2016 Goodbye to Yesterday Elina Born & Stig Rästa
2017Rooftop NOËP
2018Kiki Miki Arop
2019Mina ka nublu feat. reket
2020für Oksana nublu x gameboy tetris
2021Armasta mind (feat. Vaiko Eplik) Trad.Attack!
2022Love Ain’t The Same Rita Ray
2023 Hope STEFAN
2024 Bridges ALIKA
2025push it nublu feat. maria kallastu [5]

Songwriter's Album of the Year (Since 2023)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2023Tapeet Lonitseera [3]
2024Klišeed Vaiko Eplik
2025… aga samas … Mari Jürjens

Jazz/Blues Awards & Winners

The Jazz/Blues genre was introduced in 2000.

Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year (2000–2002, 2003–2011)

Replaced by Jazz Album of the Year in 2012

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2000 Riho Sibul Poeet külmetab klaasmäel [3]
2001 Hedvig Hanson Tule mu juurde
2003 Riho Sibul & Estonian Dream Big Band Riho Sibul & Estonian Dream Big Band
2004 Hedvig Hanson What Colour Is Love?
2005 Riho Sibul Must  
2006 Liisi Koikson Väike Järv
2007 Toomas Rull Going North
2008 Villu Veski iLife Jazz Party
2009 Hedvig Hanson Kohtumistund
2010 Riho Sibul Liblikas ja peegel
2011 Liisi Koikson Ettepoole

Jazz Album of the Year (Since 2012)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Kooskõla Vaiko Eplik ja Kristjan Randalu [3]
2013A Tempo Mustonen Sooäär Remmel Ruben
2014Esmahetked Hedvig Hanson
2015Ole hea Estonian Voices
2016In The Land Of OO-BLA-DEE Sofia Rubina
2017Armupurjus Kadri Voorand Quartet
2018Remember Reigo Ahven Trio
2019Taat läks lolliks Estonian Voices
2020In Duo with Mihkel Mälgand Kadri Voorand
2021ORGAN Maria Faust Sacrum Facere
2022Kevad Joel Remmel Trio
2023Sisu Kristjan Randalu, New Wind Jazz Orchestra
2024Ambivalence Karmen Rõivassepp & Aarhus Jazz Orchestra
2025Kallimale Estonian Voices [5]

Ethno/Folk Awards & Winners

The Ethno/Folk genre was introduced in 2000.

Ethno/Folk Artist of the Year (2000–2001, 2003–2011)

Replaced by Ethno/Folk Album of the Year in 2012

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2000 Dago Dago [3]
2001 Jaan Tätte Minemine
2003 Eesti Keeled ja Jaak Johanson, Riho Sibul Sabaga täht
2004 Maian Kärmas Tuigutuled
2005 Eesti Keeled Kella tiksumist…
2006 Jäääär Juubelplaat: ei Üle ega Ümber
2007 Diskreetse Mango Trio Prigadi-pragadi
2008 Orelipoiss Üheksakümmend üheksa
2009 Zetod Lätsi tarrõ tagasi
2010 Jaan Tätte Tulemine
2011 Orelipoiss Õnn

Ethno/Folk Album of the Year (2012–2014, 2021–2022)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Meie küla laulud Kukerpillid, Mari Pokinen, Hendrik Sal-Saller [3]
2013Ilus ja kole Orelipoiss
2014Lätsi kõrtsu Zetod
2021Make Your Move Trad.Attack! [3]
2022Viimane suusataja Puuluup

Song of the Year/Folk Album (2014, 2021–2022)

In 2014, this award was named "Folk Album of the Year"

YearWinner (Album/Song)ArtistRef
2014Sinusüdames Kõrsikud [3]
2021Omaenese ilus ja veas Mari Jürjens [3]
2022Sisemeri silmini Jaak Johanson

Ethno/Folk/Popular Album of the Year (2012–2020, 2023–Current)

Prior to 2015, this award was named Ethno/Folk Album of the Year

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2015Trad.Attack! Trad.Attack! [3]
2016Ah! Trad.Attack!
2017Une meeles Maarja Nuut
2018Kullakarva Trad.Attack!
2019Süüta mu lumi Puuluup
2020Ayibobo Black Bread Gone Mad
2023Akadeemia KukerPillid [3]
2024STOONIA LOOD MARI KALKUN
2025kannatused ehk külakiigel pole stopperit 5MIINUST x Puuluup [5]

Classical Awards & Winners

The Classical genre was introduced in 2000.

Classical Artist of the Year (2000–2001, 2004)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2000 Heiki Mätlik, Terje Terasmaa, Arvo Leibur Tango King Astor Piazzolla [3]
2001 NYYD Ensemble Nüüd
2004 Hortus Musicus Estonian Composers III [3]

Classical Album of the Year (2003, 2005–2006, Since 2014)

YearWinner (Album)ComposerPerformed ByRef
2003SabbatumVarious Rondellus [3]
2005be lost in the CallVarious NYYD Ensemble [3]
2006Sula Helena Tulve NYYD Ensemble ja ERSO
2014Vivit! Max Regeri, Rudolf Tobiase Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir [3]
2015In paradisum Galina Grigorjeva Estonian National Male Choir, conductor Mikk Üleoja. Soloists: Allar Kaasik, Aleksandr Mihhailov, Margus Vellmann, Aleksander Arder, Valter Soosalu
2016sooloalbum George Enescu, Béla Bartók, Erkki-Sven Tüür, Tõnu Kõrvits Mihkel Poll (piano)
2017 The Deer's Cry Arvo Pärt Vox Clamantis, Toomas Vavilov (clarinet), Heikko Remmel, Taavo Remmel (double basses), Robert Staak (lute), Mari Poll (violin), Johanna Vahermägi (viola), Susanne Doll (organ), conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve
2018Moorland elegies Tõnu Kõrvits Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, soloists Marianne Pärna, Jaanika Kilgi, conductor Risto Joost
2019Illuminatio. Whistles and Whispers from Uluru. Symphony No. 8 Erkki-Sven Tüür Lawrence Power (viola), Genevieve Lacey (recorder), Tapiola Sinfonietta, conductor Olari Elts
2020Sümfoonilised poeemid Heino Eller Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts
2021Lost Prayers Erkki-Sven Tüür Harry Traksmann, Leho Karin, Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann,

Florian Donderer, Tanja Tetzlaff, Signum Quartett

2022Strings Attached: The Voice of KannelVarious Anna-Liisa Eller
2023Estonian PremieresVarious Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi
2024Complete Piano Music, Volume Nine Heino Eller Sten Lassmann
2025Ship of Fools Jüri Reinvere Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi, soloists Maarika Järvi, Monika Mattiesen [5]

Estonian Composition Album of the Year (2017–2018, Since 2020)

From 2017-2023, this award was named "Composition Album of the Year"

YearWinner (Album)ComposerPerformed ByRef
2017 The Deer's Cry Arvo Pärt Vox Clamantis, Toomas Vavilov (clarinet), Heikko Remmel, Taavo Remmel (double basses), Robert Staak (lute), Mari Poll (violin), Johanna Vahermägi (viola), Susanne Doll (organ), conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve [3]
2018Moorland elegies Tõnu Kõrvits Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, soloists Marianne Pärna, Jaanika Kilgi, conductor Risto Joost
2020Sümfoonilised poeemid Heino Eller Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts [3]
2021You are Light and Morning Tõnu Kõrvits Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Risto Joost
2022Complete Piano Music. Volume Seven Heino Eller Sten Lassmann
2023Mass of Mary Maria Faust Chamber Choir Collegium Musicale, conductor Endrik Üksvärav
2024The Sound of Wings Tõnu Kõrvits Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Risto Joost
2025Ship of Fools Jüri Reinvere Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi, soloists Maarika Järvi, Monika Mattiesen [5]

Solo or Chamber Music Album of the Year (2017–2018, Since 2020)

From 2017-2023, this award was named "Chamber Music Album of the Year"

YearWinner (Album)ComposerPerformed byRef
2017String Quartets Heino Eller Tallinn String Quartet (Urmas Vulp, Olga Voronova, Toomas Nestor, Levi-Daniel Mägila) [3]
Mirror Tõnu Kõrvits Anja Lechner (cello), Kadri Voorand (voice), Tõnu Kõrvits (kannel), Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Tõnu Kaljuste
2018Works for violin and piano George Enescu, Francis Poulenc, Arnold Schönberg, Erkki-Sven Tüür Mari Poll (violin), Mihkel Poll (piano)
2020Virmalised. Eesti klaverimuusika läbi sajandiVarious Mihekel Poll, Age Juurikas, Irina Zahharenkova, Sten Lassmann, Marko Martin jt. [3]
2021Lost Prayers Erkki-Sven Tüür Harry Traksmann, Leho Karin, Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann,

Florian Donderer, Tanja Tetzlaff, Signum Quartett

2022Strings Attached: The Voice of KannelVarious Anna-Liisa Eller
2023Flow LineVarious Ensemble Una Corda
2024Complete Piano Music, Volume Nine Heino Eller Sten Lassmann
2025Tallinn Cathedral Organ Aare-Paul Lattik Aare-Paul Lattik [5]

Choral Music Album of the Year (2017–2018, Since 2020)

Renamed Choir Music Album of the Year in 2022-2023

YearWinner (Album)ComposerPerformed byRef
2017 The Deer's Cry Arvo Pärt Vox Clamantis, Toomas Vavilov (clarinet), Heikko Remmel, Taavo Remmel (double basses), Robert Staak (lute), Mari Poll (violin), Johanna Vahermägi (viola), Susanne Doll (organ), conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve [3]
2018Moorland elegies Tõnu Kõrvits Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, soloists Marianne Pärna, Jaanika Kilgi, conductor Risto Joost
2020Liszt: Via crucis, S. 53 - Pärt: Sacred Choral Works Arvo Pärt, Ferenc Liszt Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Kaspars Putniņš, Kalle Randalu (piano) [3]
2021The Suspended Harp of Babel Cyrillus Kreek Vox Clamantis, Jaan-Eik Tulve, Anna-Liisa Eller, Angela Ambrosini, Marco Ambrosini
2022Choir Concerto, Three Sacred Hymns - Seven Magnificat-Antiphons Alfred Schnittke, Arvo Pärt Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Kaspars Putniņš
2023 Liturgy of St John Chrysostom Rachmaninov Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Kaspars Putniņš
2024Music by Henrik ØdegaardHenrik Ødegaard Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve
2025Shostakovich Symphony No.13. - Pärt: De profundis Dmitri Shostakovich and Arvo Pärt Estonian National Male Choir, artistic director Mikk Üleoja, BBC Philharmonic, conductor John Storgårds, soloist Albert Dohmen [5]

Orchestral or Stage Music Album of the Year (2017–2018, 2020–Current)

From 2017 to 2024, this award was named "Symphonic or Stage Music Album of the Year"

YearWinner (Album)ComposerPerformed byRef
2017Great Maestros. I-V. Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms, Richard Strauss Kalle Randalu (piano), Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Neeme Järvi [3]
2018Concertos for oboe and oboe d´amore Antonio Vivaldi, Alessandro Marcello, Georg Philipp Telemann, Johann Sebastian Bach Kalev Kuljus (oboe), Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra
2020Sümfoonilised poeemid Heino Eller Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts [3]
2021Elgar. Violin Concerto. Stenhammar. Two Sentimental Romances Edward Elgar & Wilhelm Stenhammar Triin Ruubel, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Neeme Järvi
2022Works for Piano and Orchestra Sergei Rachmaninoff, Eduard Tubin Mihkel Poll, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Mihhail Gerts
2023Estonian PremieresVarious Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi
2024KRATT Tubin, Bacewicz, Lutosławski Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi
2025Ship of Fools Jüri Reinvere Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi, soloists Maarika Järvi, Monika Mattiesen [5]

Alternative Awards & Winners\

The Alternative genre was introduced in 2001.

Alternative Artist of the Year (2001–2004)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2001 Una Bomba Aerosol [3]
2003 Tallinn 73 Meets Kalm Autopiloot
2004 Chalice Ühendatud inimesed

Alternative/Indie Album of the Year (Since 2012)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Laika Virgin Laika Virgin [3]
2013Travel the World Tenfold Rabbit
2014Say Whaat? Kali Briis
20157: Nõgesed Vaiko Eplik
2016Öine bingo Ans. Andur
2017Hingake / Breathe Mick Pedaja
2018Efterglow Erki Pärnoja
2019Muunduja Maarja Nuut & Ruum
2020Anna Kaneelina Anna Kaneelina
2021LEVA Erki Pärnoja
2022Viiv Janek Murd
2023Katarsis garanteeritud Florian Wahl
2024Perfect Kindness Night Tapes
2025Flo Raadio Florian Wahl [5]

Hip-Hop/R'n'B/Rap/Soul/Funk Awards & Winners

The Hip-Hop/R'n'B genres were introduced in 2005 within a single award. From 2013–2015, R'n'B was omitted from the award and the Rap genre was recognised as similar but distinct from Hip-Hop music. From 2016 to 2022, the main award included all three genres. From 2023, the Soul and Funk genres were introduced. This category now awards 2 genres, Hip-Hop/Rap and Soul/Funk/R'n'B. In 2025, there was no award for Soul/Funk/R'n'B. [3] [5]

Hip-Hop/R'n'B Artist of the Year (2005–2011)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2005 Toe Tag Legendaarne [3]
2006 Chalice Süsteemsüsteem
2007 Tommy Boy Suur pilt
2008 Chalice Taevas ja perse
2009 Chalice Supervõimed
2010 Toe Tag Kõik on formuleerimise küsimus
2011 Metsakutsu Testament

Hip-Hop/Rap Album of the Year (2013–2015, 2018)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2013Per Aspera ad Astra Põhja-Tallinn [3]
2014Maailm meid saadab Põhja-Tallinn
2015Genka / Paul Oja Genka / Paul Oja
2018Mixtape nr 1 Genka / Paul Oja
2019 ¥€$ TOMM¥ €A$H

Hip-Hop/Rap/R'n'B Album of the Year (2016–2017)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2016Resotsialiseerumine X Valge Lipp Beebilõust [3]
2017Kuhu koer on maetud Metsakutsu

HipHop/Rap/R'n'B Artist of the Year (2020–2022)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2020 nublu [3]
2021 nublu Café Kosmos
2022 Genka & Dew8 OLEG

Soul/Funk/R'n'B Artist of the Year (2023-2024)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2023 Anett Late to the Party [3]
2024 Anett x FrediRead Between The Lines

Hip-Hop/Rap Artist of the Year (Since 2023)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2023 reket Palun Puhka [3]
2024 villemdrillem väljateenitud
2025 säm Südamelt ära [5]

Electronic Awards & Winners

The Electronic genre was introduced in 2005.

Electronic Artist of the Year (2005–2011)

Replaced by Electronic Album of the Year in 2012

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2005 Kalm Generalissimus Kalm [3]
2006 Dice Play It Again
2007 Köök Telegramm
2008 Broken Time Orchestra Surmal on meie jaoks tähendus
2009 Rulers Of The Deep Ready to go overground
2010 Popidiot Antenna of Love
2011 Leslie Da Bass Minu kuningriik

Electronic Album of the Year (Since 2012)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Kõige pikem päev Tehnoloogiline Päike [3]
2013Supernatural Tiger Milk
2014Times New Roman Leslie Da Bass
2015Histrionic Maria Minerva
2016Insert Title Avoid Dave
2017Rogue Wave Mart Avi
2018Music Is Everywhere Dave Storm
2019TIKS 068 Sander Mölder
2020TEN Bert On Beats
2021Hüperruum Planeet
2022Disposable Society WATEVA
2023Blade Mart Avi
2024Expensive Demos Ajukaja
2025Death of Music Ajukaja & Mart Avi [5]

Metal/Punk Awards & Winners

The Metal/Punk genre was introduced in 2005. In 2012, the Punk genre has been omitted and only Metal is recognised.

Metal/Punk Artist of the Year (2005–2011)

Replaced by Metal Album of the Year in 2012

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2005 Metsatöll Hiiekoda [3]
2006 Metsatöll Terast mis hangund me hinge
2007 Shelton San Spontaneous Black
2008 Finish me off Seed
2009 Metsatöll Iivakivi
2010 No-Big-Silence Starstealer
2011 Metsatöll Äio

Metal Album of the Year (Since 2012)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Ulg Metsatöll [3]
2013Satanic Disappointment Pedigree
2014Scaled Talbot
2015Karjajuht Metsatöll
2016Masin Herald
2017Supersargasso Taak
2018Standard Sundown Pedigree
2019Magnetism Talbot
20203 Kannabinõid
2021FLUX Juur
2022Pangetäis Bängereid Mört
2023Surgent Surgent
2024MASS Kannabinõid
2025Inkvisiitor Goresoerd [5]

Rock Awards & Winners

The Rock genre was introduced in 2006.

Rock Artist of the Year (2006–2011)

Replaced by Rock Album of the Year in 2012

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2006 Tanel Padar & The Sun The Greatest Hits [3]
2007 Tanel Padar & The Sun 100% rock’n’roll
2008 Vaiko Eplik ja Eliit Vaiko Eplik & Eliit 2
2009 Vaiko Eplik ja Eliit 3: Kosmoseodüsseia
2010 Röövel Ööbik Ringrada
2011 Ultima Thule Jälgede jälgedes

Rock Album of the Year (Since 2012)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Good Man Down Ewert and The Two Dragons [3]
20136 Varielu Vaiko Eplik
2014Facelift Deer Facelift Deer
2015Pressure & Pleasure Elephants From Neptune
2016Circles Ewert and The Two Dragons
2017Oh No Elephants From Neptune
2018Kunagi läänes Miljardid
2019Hands Around the Moon Ewert and The Two Dragons
2020Hetk. InSpereeritud Tüürist Põhja Konn, Vox Clamantis, Estonian Cello Ensemble
2021Ma luban, et ma muutun Miljardid
2022Soup Can Pop Band The Boondocks
2023Boogieland Elephants From Neptune
2024It Is What It Is Bedwetters
2025Surm Lõuna-Saksamaal Kosmikud [5]

Pop Awards & Winners

Pop has been recognised as a distinct genre since 2009.

Pop Artist of the Year (2009–2011, Since 2020)

From 2012-2019, this award was replaced by "Pop Album of the Year"

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2009 Kerli Love is dead [3]
2010 Popidiot Antenna of Love
2011 Lenna Lenna
2020 Liis Lemsalu [3]
2021 Anett Morning After
2022 NOËP No Man Is An Island
2023 STEFAN Hope
2024 NOËP Move Your Feet
2025 nublu [5]

Pop Album of the Year (2012–2019)

YearWinner (Album)ArtistRef
2012Wide awake Outloudz [3]
2013Öö mu kannul käib Ott Lepland
2014Bermuda HU?
2015Vääramatu jõud Karl-Erik Taukar
2016Elina Born Elina Born
2017Kaks Karl-Erik Taukar
2018+1 Liis Lemsalu
2019Heads In The Clouds NOËP

Dance Awards & Winners

Dance was recognised as a distinct genre from 1998–2003.

Dance Hit of the Year (1998–2001)

Replaced by Hit Song of the Year in 2003

YearWinner (Song)ArtistRef
1998Ma varjuna kannul sul käin 98’ 2 Quick Start [3]
1999O Si Nene Caater
2000Once in a Lifetime Ines
2001Salaja Hannah

Dance Artist of the Year (2001, 2003)

YearWinner (Artist)AlbumRef
2001 2 Quick Start Ühega miljoneist [3]
2003 Caater Club Space

References

  1. 1 2 "Tutvustus". Eesti Muusikaauhinnad (in Estonian). Retrieved 2025-10-15.
  2. "Eesti Fonogrammitootjate Ühing » EST » Muusikaauhinnad » 2000". www.efy.ee. Archived from the original on 2011-06-02. Retrieved 2025-10-15.
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 "Ajalugu". Eesti Muusikaauhinnad (in Estonian). Retrieved 2025-10-14.
  4. 1 2 Haabmets, Rauno (2025-01-30). "Eesti Muusikaauhinnad 2025 võitjad on selgunud". Eesti Muusikaauhinnad (in Estonian). Retrieved 2025-10-16.
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 "2025 võitjad". Eesti Muusikaauhinnad (in Estonian). Retrieved 2025-10-15.