Staff Photo by Patrick Smith
Local signer/ songwriter Roger Allen Wade plays for a crowd of people at the FYI Awards at Rhythm and Brews Friday. Eight bands performed throughout the night, while awards were given in over 25 categories.

Slim Pickin's was the big winner in the inaugural FYI Music Awards on Friday night at Rhythm & Brews, taking top honors as Best New Band, Best Live Band and Best Bluegrass Band.

Custom-designed steel and maple trophies were awarded in 29 categories during the ceremonies, which featured live performances by Slim Pickin's, The Ben Friberg Trio, The New Binkley Brothers, Roger Alan Wade, Hypnowheel, The Distribution, Up With the Joneses and the Icons.

WJTT on-air personality Eric Foster served as master of ceremonies.

The event was well attended by area musicians and fans.

"I really like it because there are a lot of quality musicians under one roof. We get to hear people that are new to us," said Ben Freberg, who was nominated for Best Jazz Artist.

The 2009 FYI Music Award winners are:

* Best Keyboardist -- Jason Reed.

* Best Drummer -- Josh Cannon.

* Best Singer/Songwriter -- Roger Alan Wade.

* Best Guitarist -- Nate Luttrell.

* Best Bassist -- Terry Clouse.

* Best Female Vocalist -- Bethany Stump.

* Best Male Vocalist -- Jason Ewton.

* Best Live Band -- Slim Pickin's.

* Best Folk or Bluegrass Instrumentalist -- Brian Blaylock.

* Best Alternative Band -- Moonlight Bride.

* Best Blues Band -- Husky Burnette.

* Best Country Band -- Channing Wilson.

* Best Bluegrass Band -- Slim Pickin's.

* Best Cover Band -- Bud Lightning.

* Best Metal Band -- Night of the Wolf.

* Best Hip Hop Band -- The MaleMen.

* Best DJ -- Toneharm.

* Best New Band -- Slim Pickin's.

* Best Pop Band -- Up with the Joneses.

* Best Punk Band -- The Unsatisfied.

* Best World Band -- The Molly Maguires.

* Best Jazz Band -- Booker T. Scruggs Ensemble.

* Best Inspirational or Gospel Band -- Tennessee Harmony.

* Best Rock Band -- Eris.

* Best Festival or Series -- Nightfall.

* Best Radio Station -- WUTC 88.1.

* Best Radio DJ -- Jeff Styles.

* Best Local Venue -- Rhythm & Brews.

* Best Local Album or Recording -- "Over the Sound" by Up With the Joneses.