In the past, bands, singer-songwriters and cover designers had to start out on the bottom before making it to the top. Now, with Music Video Submission links, some can become instant artists. While this is the case, not all will become as famous as those whom made their way up the ranks of blues, folk, hip-hop, jazz, rap, rock and roll and soul.

The ninth annual IMAs are now accepting applications in a number of different categories. With an outstanding line up of judges including Tom Waits Aimee Mann Zooey Deschanel, M. War, Mark Hoppus and Pete Wentz, there is a good chance that the best of the best will get noticed whether or not winning an award. In addition, there are very few artists whom can say that one has had the opportunity to get work in front of such an elite and talented group of judges.

With all the clutter on the airwaves and the Internet, it is often hard to get the attention of promoters and studios. As such, independent artists and labels around the world now submit to the IMA on an annual basis. The awards are currently accepting submissions on the IMA website. Before submitting, it is important to review all submissions to assure visual clarity and sound quality. For, unless an entry has clear picture and sound, it will most likely be rejected upon receipt.

IMA provides awards in a wide category of genres and styles. In addition, there are also design categories with regards to label design and promotion. For the first time, the 9th IMA program will allow for long form videos featuring multiple songs.

For those only wanting to submit a video to share online outside the IMA website, there are several sites which now allow individual submissions. These sites range from BET to YouTube and beyond. Whether submitting a single video, or an entire live show, there are many sites which welcome these submissions.

While this is the case, earning an IMA can go along way when it comes to getting a head start on a successful musical career. For, the IMA actively promotes nominees and winners to over fifty million music fans, online and broadcast media, print, music supervisors, talent buyers, programmers and industry gatekeepers.

Media promoters HIP Video Promo and The Planetary Group and others have access to distribution, promotion and performance opportunities which can put nominees and winners in front of millions of fans. As such, simply by submitting, artists have a chance of building a fan base while possibly getting support with regards to gigs and studio production.

When submitting to the IMA, even artists working for social change have a chance of winning an award. For example, these artists can submit albums and songs into the Social Action album and song categories. While other artists can submit to genres including Live Album, Music Video, Gig Poster, Concept Album Love Song and Cover Song just to name a few.