The 20th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards

Entertainment — By Buddy Sampson on November 27, 2010 at 3:34 pm

The lead vocalist of the group "The Spectaculars." Photo by SRH Photo Design.

By Buddy Sampson

Paramount Studios in Hollywood was the locale of the 20th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards, which took place on November 18th, 2010. The Awards show, which was Executive Produced by Al Bowman and Susanna Griffie, who also produces the Hollywood F.A.M.E. Awards and the Phoenix Music Awards, had a combined event which recognized the three Awards honors. The Award extravaganza took place on a chilly evening in Southern California. Seen at the event were artists Josh and JB, The Lost Boys, legendary rock producer Eddie Kramer, who worked with Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones, among others, Sally Kirkland and many of the award recipients.

Justin Foutz, who received the "Country Artist of the Year" Award, was one of many artists at the Los Angeles Music Awards.

Justin Foutz, who garnered the honor for “Country Artist of the Year,” was one of the many artists that were seen on the red carpet. Foutz, who was honored for a single written by himself and Jeremiah Bevins, “For Tonight,” spoke about the origins of the song. “In 2003, we sat down one day in Nashville and kind of rewrote the verses and put the music behind it and made it come alive and it marinaded for so many years and kind of blew up to make a thing for both of us,” said Justin Foutz.

Among the honorees was the owner of The Whiskey a Go Go, Mario Maglieri, one of “The Godfathers of the Sunset Strip,” rocker Ronnie James Dio, who recently passed away and Max Cleland, who had the most poignant moment of the night. Cleland, a double amputee, who served in Vietnam, received the 2010 Literary Award for his memoir, “Heart Of A Patriot.” He received one of the few standing ovations of the night. Taking the stage that evening were “The Lost Boys,” who had a nice blend of Pop and Rock. Their songs included a tune of theirs, “Starstuck.” They are a very talented young band. Another act that performed and were recognized were a fine jazz group “Storeytime,” whose short set was sensational. They had a very fluid Manhatten Transfer feel.

Instrumental Artist of the Year honors went to Willie Ames, who also performed. He excelled on the banjo and guitar in his set. Sally Kirkland received a Lifetime Achievement Award. In her acceptance speech, she gave credit to God for her success. “Truth on Earth” performed. They are a band with three sisters and their music had social relevance. But our favorite performance of the night was from the band “The Spectaculars.” Their music was fresh and funky. A well rehearsed band, with tight vocals and a terrifically solid rhythm section, they electrified the audience. Look for big things from this terrific band.

Special thanks to Doug Deutsch, Liz Rodriguez and Eve Schwartz for their help in compiling this article.

Photos by SRH Photo Design.