They might not have much in common, but both Pussy Riot and President Vladimir Putin may both soon be holders of NME awards. The shortlist of nominees has been announced for the awards ceremony that will take place in London on Feb. 26.
Pussy Riot have been nominated in two categories. The first is "Music Moment of the Year." This 'moment' referred to is their release from prison under President Vladimir Putin's amnesty to mark the 20th anniversary of the Russian Constitution. Other nominees in this category include the Arctic Monkeys headlining Glastonbury, Kanye West bringing a Jesus impersonator on stage, the publication of Morrissey's autobiography and Noel Gallagher and Damon Albarn coming together to raise money for a cancer charity.
The second category in which they are nominated is "Hero of the Year." They are joined in this list by Russell Brand, David Bowie and Lou Reed among others. Pussy Riot were nominated in the same category at last year's awards but were beaten to it by Barack Obama and the opening ceremony of the London Olympics respectively, Lenta.ru reported.
President Vladimir Putin might be less than thrilled to hear that he has been nominated for the rather more humorous "Villain of the Year." But what other well-known figures can match Putin's villainy in the minds of NME readers? Other nominees include Putin's fellow statesman David Cameron, singer Miley Cyrus, boy band member Harry Styles, and Robin Thicke, who came under fire this year for the perceived misogynistic nature of one of his chart-toppers. Illustrious company indeed.
Since 1996, the awards have been held by annually by the British music magazine NME and recognize the most important musical contributions of the past year, as well as including more humorous awards. The trophy awarded to the winners resembles an extended middle finger.
Commenting on the awards, Mike Williams, editor of NME, said: "The past 12 months of music have had everything — returning legends, era-defining singles, more albums with a claim to be modern classics than any year in recent memory and tons of massive live moments to celebrate. None of this has gone unnoticed by NME's huge audience, with more people than ever voting to compile these incredibly exciting shortlists," the Independent reported.
Whether or not Pussy Riot will gain the accolades or will lose out a second year in a row will be revealed next month. As for Putin, far from being "International Person of the Year," this is perhaps one international accolade he would prefer not to acknowledge.
Contact the author at g.cuddihy@imedia.ru
