“I have no idea who nominated me. The production company I’m part owner of, on Stage Productions, we work with many different bands during the summer months at festivals,picnics and fairs. so It could’ve been anyone,” said Mr. Michael Hibbard, who works maintenance at NDA.

Hibbard, also known as Flaggy, found out via an email from WAMI that he had been nominated for Live Audio Engineer of the Year. 

WAMI is the acronym for Wisconsin Area Music Industry whose annual awards ceremony recognizes musicians from many genres.

Hibbard said, “My first thought when I found out was WOW someone must have liked what I did, and then I thought, well, I’ve been doing this for almost 40 years now, and I should just be proud that someone noticed me.”

The NDA maintenance veteran got involved with the music industry in high school by playing drums. He said he quickly learned he really wasn’t very good at playing, but he did have a good ear for sound. Consequently, Hibbard dove into music and never looked back. 

The 45th annual WAMI awards show will take place on May 4 at the Deco in West Allis. 

There will be ceremonies, but he is not required to be present.

“My most memorable moment working in the music industry was probably meeting The Beach Boys, such nice guys and still playing after all these years. It was an honor to provide the lights and sound for their show,” said Hibbard.

There is nothing required to be nominated, but you must join WAMI to vote. 

Hibbard is not sure about the cost to join WAMI, but membership does afford some privileges like being able to vote and getting early concert announcements and reduced ticket prices.