Local Music Stars Honored At Milford Awards Ceremony

MILFORD, MA — Local musicians, venues and fans were recognized during the 2026 Local Vibe Music Awards in Milford earlier this month.

The local radio station Raydio hosted the free event earlier this month at the DoubleTree by Hilton, presenting 25 fan-selected awards and featuring 10 live performances. The awards recognize bands, musicians, performers, venues and others who support the region’s music scene.

Performers included Captain and the Stubings, Driftwood, Roadhouse Strangers, Coffeehouse Squirrels, Fourth Year, The Bitter Hearts, Dan Rice, Box Groove, The Pub Kings and Project Alice.

Project Alice received the inaugural Local Vibe Headliner Award, while Tony Soul was recognized as a Local Legend. Additional awards honored local music fans and personalities.

Unlike competitions decided by judges or music industry professionals, the Local Vibe Music Awards allow fans to choose the winners.

Here's a list of the 2026 winners:

• Local Music Supporter: Juli Johnson
• Local Soundguy: Rob Swalley
• Local Acoustic Venue: Oasis Patio
• Local Music Venue: Liz's Tavern
• Local Music Event: Franklin PorchFest
• Local Bassist: Tim Galvin
• Local Keyboardist: Mary Medeiros
• Local Drummer: Matthew Zajac
• Local Acoustic Solo Act: David Penza
• Local Acoustic Act: Driftwood
• Local Country Act: Whiskey 6
• Local Guitarist: Jeremy Roy
• Local Shredder: Mikey Hutchinson
• Local Vocalist: Lizzie Leis
• Local Blues Act: Tony Soul Project
• Local Jazz Act: Bob Martin Quartet
• Local Pop/Rock Band: The Pub Kings
• Local Cover Song: "Best of You" by Box Groove
• Local Original Song: "Silver" by Jennifer Tefft and The Strange
• Local Band Name: Coffeehouse Squirrels
• Local Band Promotion: Box Groove
• Outstanding Stage Presence: Carolyn Rae & The Rumors
• Local Tribute Band: Metal Godz
• Local Original Act: Jennifer Tefft and The Strange
• Headliner Award: Project Alice

Special Recognition Awards:

• Best Fans: Driftwood
• Energizer Bunny: Jay Tulio
• Fun Hang: Chip Zale
• Best Dressed: Bill Donovan
• Local Legend: Tony Soul

“Local music is about so much more than what happens on stage,” Raydio and The Local Vibe founder Ray Auger said. “It’s about the musicians who put their hearts into every performance, the venues that give them a place to play and the fans who show up week after week to support them.”

Local businesses and sponsors helped organizers offer the event free to the public.

The awards are an extension of Raydio’s Local Vibe, a resource connecting listeners with area performers, venues and live music. Raydio is a locally owned internet radio station serving Milford and surrounding communities.

See Also:

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