Independent music’s biggest night is mere weeks away. Back in March, the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) and the Foundation for Independent Music (FIM) announced the 2026 Libera Awards presented by Merlin’s official nominees.
Yesterday (May 11), organizers unveiled this year’s featured performers. On June 8, independent musicians, label executives, and industry professionals gather inside of Gotham Hall for the coveted ceremony. But between categories being called, attendees will be treated to a handful of special performances.
The list of confirmed performers includes Best Global Record nominee Mdou Moctar, Best American Roots Record nominee Valerie June, Best R&B Record nominee Dawn Richard, and lastly, eclectic synth-pop artist PORCHES.
Alongside the performers’ reveal, FIM and A2IM announced the recipients of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award. The 2026 Libera Awards lifetime achievement recipients are Nettwerk Music Group‘s co-founders Terry McBride and Mark Jowett.
In a statement, Ian Harrison, the CEO of A2IM, praised McBride and Jowett’s commitment to the independent music community.
“Terry and Mark have been true mavericks and innovators in the independent music sector the past 40 years,” said Harrison. “Their tireless work supporting a diverse array of artists through their label, management, publishing, and various non-profits has been an inspiration to generations of the independent musicians and industry members. We are honored to recognize their extraordinary work with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”
The 15th annual Libera Awards (2026 Libera Awards) will be held at the historic Gotham Hall in New York City on Monday, June 8, 2026. Delisa Shannon of Billboard will return to serve as the evening’s host yet again. Continue below to view the full nomination list for the 2026 Libera Awards presented by Merlin. Find more information here.