Press Release

COLUMBIA, SC — KU Music Group is proud to announce the 2nd Annual Carolina Soul Music Awards (CSMA), a celebration of Southern Soul music excellence set to take place on Sunday, November 1, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in Columbia, SC.

The Carolina Soul Music Awards is a first-of-its-kind event honoring the artists, DJs, and community leaders who have shaped the sound and culture of Southern Soul music across the Carolinas. The ceremony will feature live performances, red carpet moments, awards presentations across multiple categories, and the reveal of the inaugural CSMA Legend Honoree — the event's highest distinction.

Award categories include Best Male Artist, Best Female Artist, Best DJ, Best New Artist, Best Song, and Best Album. Nominees will be announced in advance of the event, with fan voting open to the public.

Southern Soul music is the heartbeat of our community, and we're giving these incredible artists from North and South Carolina the recognition they deserve! The Inaugural Carolina Soul Music Awards is our way of celebrating the music, the culture, and the people who make it all possible.

Tickets are available now in General Admission and VIP tiers. VIP guests will enjoy red carpet access, premium seating, a delicious three-course meal, and bottle service.

For tickets, voting information, and media credentials, visit thecsma.com or follow the Carolina Soul Music Awards on Facebook and Instagram.