Best Local Music Act: The Dudes
Pulling from a wide variety of influences alongside the indie rock genre, The Dudes remain one of Calgary’s greatest contemporary music acts, winning Best Local Music Act yet again. Originally formed in 1996, the band first gained popularity for a series of lo-fi releases and the excitement of their live performances. Dan Vacon is the band’s lead songwriter and creative director. Needless to say, over two decades later, The Dudes continue to be one of Calgary’s most recognizable local music acts. As the band’s creative output has slowed down in recent years, it’s really their live shows – as energetic as ever – that keep them going.
However, The Dudes music reaches far beyond just Calgary. Their songs play on mainstream Canadian radio, university stations as well as the CBC. In addition to extensive touring in Canada, The Dudes have also performed across the United States and Europe. Their songs have appeared in various media, most notably a 2006 Rogers Wireless advertising campaign and the television series Rookie Blue. Among the band’s latest releases are the album East Side Good Times 5 and their 2018 single Saturday Night (My C is Alright). For more information on where you can catch The Dude’s next live show and/or how you can support them, visit their website here.
FIRST RUNNER UP: MICHAEL BERNARD FITZGERALD
SECOND RUNNER UP: THE FLAT WHITES