The second annual Resonator Awards celebrated female, trans, and non-binary musicians and producers on March 15, 2024, at the historic Chaplin Studios in Hollywood. The event, designed to honor those making significant contributions behind the scenes, showcased an impressive lineup of artists and industry leaders, including Chappell Roan, Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, and Olivia Rodrigo.
Nestled in a venue renowned for its rich musical history, the Courtyard at Chaplin Lot provided a fitting backdrop. Originally founded in 1917 by actor Charlie Chaplin, the studio has served as a creative hub for numerous legendary figures, including those associated with A&M Records and the Jim Henson Company. The evening was organized by Grammy-winning mastering engineer Emily Lazar and her foundation, We Are Moving the Needle, focused on amplifying marginalized voices in music.
The awards ceremony featured a range of honorees and presenters, including Doechii, St. Vincent, and Nancy Wilson, with performances from Lalah Hathaway, Sia, and Margo Price. The atmosphere was electric, with attendees mingling and sharing laughter, underscoring the camaraderie within the community.
A highlight of the evening was the heartfelt acceptance speeches. Chappell Roan received the Harmonizer Award, recognizing her efforts to leverage music for social change. Roan expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of community and support for marginalized groups. “I think it’s an artist’s and anyone who has money’s duty to give it away,” she remarked, stressing the need for kindness in a challenging societal climate.
The Golden Trifecta Award was presented to St. Vincent by Olivia Rodrigo, who described how the artist’s work had profoundly influenced her own journey. Rodrigo shared her experience of discovering St. Vincent’s music as a teenager, reflecting on the impact of the song “Cruel.” In her acceptance speech, St. Vincent praised Rodrigo, stating, “You give me all hope for the future.”
Another touching moment was when Joni Mitchell paid tribute to her long-time friend Chaka Khan. Mitchell recounted humorous anecdotes from their friendship while Khan reflected on her admiration for Mitchell’s artistry. “I started listening to her when I was in my middle teens, and she was one of my biggest inspirations,” Khan shared, holding up her award as a symbol of her journey in music.
The Resonator Awards also featured an all-star auction, which included a raffle won by Doechii, who received a trip to Mykonos. The night extended well into the evening, with guests enjoying the lively atmosphere until nearly midnight. Despite delays caused by travel issues for some attendees, the spirit of the event remained high, showcasing the resilience and passion of the artists involved.
In addition to honoring individual achievements, the awards ceremony highlighted the importance of community support within the music industry. Each recipient underscored the collective effort required to challenge traditional norms and promote inclusivity.
The evening culminated in an all-star tribute to Chaka Khan, featuring performances of her iconic songs. Artists such as Maggie Rogers and Lalah Hathaway honored Khan’s legacy through their renditions, reminding the audience of her lasting influence on music.
As the night came to a close, the courtyard remained lively with attendees, reflecting the strong bonds formed within the music community. The Resonator Awards not only celebrated individual talent but also reinforced the importance of lifting one another as they continue to push for greater representation and recognition in the music industry.
