After two years of virtual ceremonies, the Songlines Music Awards made its grand live return on November 2, with world music fans packing London’s Scala for an evening of music and celebration.

Hosted again by Cerys Matthews, and supported by Agilia, the night got frothy from the off, with a dazzlingly frenetic percussive showcase courtesy of top-tier Afro-jazz juggernauts Balimaya Project, worthy recipients of our Newcomer award. Justin Adams & Mauro Durante then commenced to set the whole place blazing, conjuring desert blues for an acute case of mass hypnosis, before Ballaké Sissoko precipitated some deliciously luminous kora balms and Fanfare Ciocărlia closed with their fiery brass bombast.

Best Newcomer Winners 2022: Balimaya Project (©Paul Tomlins)

It was just a shame that Youssou N’Dour, winner of this year’s World Pioneer accolade, was called away last minute on urgent political duty and was unable to accept his award in person. However, Peter Gabriel was generous enough to contribute a special video message of congratulation, which premiered on the night.  

For those who were unable to attend in person, or anyone simply wanting to re-run the fun, you can watch highlights of all the evening’s performances and presentations below.