1954

Held on April 25th at the Royal Albert Hall, the awards were presented by Nat 'King' Cole.

Winners were presented hand drawn portraits painted by David Kemp and, according to our report the following week, "often touch(ed) the highest peaks of ecstasy." Wow.

Band You Would Most Like To See At The NME Pollwinners' Concert : Johnny Dankworth's Orchestra

Outstanding Drummer: Jack Parnell

Outstanding Clarinet Player: Carl Barriteau

Oustanding Tenor Sax Player: Ronnie Scott

Outstanding Trombone Player: Don Lusher

Outstanding Alto Sax Player: Johnny Dankworth

Outstanding Guitar Player: Ivor Mairants

Outstanding Piano Player: Bill McGuffie

Outstanding Trumpet Player: Kenny Baker

Outstanding Bass Player: Johnny Hawksworth

Outstanding Arranger: Reg Owen

Outstanding Large Band: Ted Heath And His Music

Musician Of The Year: Ronnie Scott

Male Vocalist: Dickie Valentine

Female Vocalist: Lita Roza

Small Band: Ronnie Scott's Band