It’s NAMA time!

Being in a band is one of those things many kids dream of in junior high and then muster up the guts to actually attempt in the garage or basement of their parents’ houses a few years later.

What they don’t tell you in 7th grade, however, is that being in a band usually includes more drama than it does actual music.

The punk bands make fun of the indie bands. The indie bands make fun of the jam bands and the jam bands, well, they just get real high* and play all night. The jam bands probably have it made, now that I think about it.

For 14 years now, the Northwest Arkansas Music Awards have been stirring up the local music scene in a big way. Those who get nominated get psyched. Those who don’t pledge allegiance to the anti-NAMA flag. So it goes.

This year has been no exception. Just look at how many comments our original story about NAMA ’09 received. And if you really want a taste, then read ’em.

Fortunately, as soon as KUAF’s Kyle Kellams gets on stage with that soothing voice of his, everyone realizes that the world’s gonna be just fine.

After all, the NAMAs aren’t about figuring out who the best bands are in Northwest Arkansas. They’re about celebrating our music scene. Apparently, even the Mayor knows that. According to the namaawards.com, Mayor Lioneld Jordan has declared April 23 as Northwest Arkansas Musicians’ Day “to honor all local musicians.”

So come on out and watch all the excitement as it happens at 8pm this evening at the Dickson Theater. Besides the drama, there will be live music by Jarris, Souled Out, Pat and Mattie, Kory Montgomery Band and Cletus Got Shot.

Here is a full list of the nominees for this year’s NAMA Awards:

*Get high on life, that is. You didn’t think I meant marijuana did you?