Jazz/folk guitarist Duane Andrews won the SOCAN songwriter of the year award and three others, as the big winner at the 2008 Music NL (Newfoundland and Labrador) Awards, held Nov. 9 at the Arts and Culture Centre in Gander, Nfld. Andrews also won for male artist, album (for Raindrops) and Coast jazz/blues artist/group of the year.

Andrews is no stranger to such honours, having already received international and American songwriting prizes, three East Coast Music Awards, and two previous Music NL Awards.

Hey Rosetta! was the other big winner of the night, taking home Music NL awards for group, entertainer and pop/rock artist/group of the year – but the band members were unable to attend the gala because they were touring in Alberta.

St. John's 11-piece reggae/ska band The Idlers received the Galaxie rising star award and were also named best alternative artist/group.

For more information, visit the Music NL website.