NME bringing awards to U.S.

The British music publication NME will expand its annual awards with a U.S. version slated to bow April 23 at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles. The American edition will determine winners through votes cast by U.S. users who visit the website NME.com/usaawards.

NME awards have contributed to helping break such acts as Arctic Monkeys, the Kaiser Chiefs and the Killers. NME is partnering with L.A. based concert promoter Goldenvoice for the event.

In conjunction with the award event, NME also is launching the NME Awards Tour in the U.S. in April. Kate Nash, so far the only confirmed act, will headline. Ticket information is available on NME’s website.

-- Randy Lewis