If you're this determined about winning your local music awards by getting phone-in votes, for just $5 at fiverr.com you could get some guy in Ubekistan or Sri Lanka to get 1000 people to vote for you. I understand that it's cool to win awards and all that, and I'm sure you are one of the top 10 bassists in Austin, but if local Austin people think you are the 4th best, but LBO votes boost you to 2nd overall, is that a good feeling?
My reason for posting is this: Awards and recognition help the band.
At shows, when our MC mentions the band has won so and so awards so and so many times the crowd makes an audible "wow" sound and applauds. Every time. It's clout for use when someone calls the booking agent asking about hiring the band. When they hear about our track record at the local music awards they're sold! They know they don't have to worry about if we're good and professional. They have proof.
So, I was simply looking for support from my online friends, colleagues, and cohorts. And yes, I suppose there are such online services as you describe, but to me THAT is cheating, and WOULD be personally unfulfilling. But, if I/the band gets support from friends and fans...well, to me that's what it's all about.
I've posted for votes here for several years, this is the first I've heard that it's a bad idea. Thought one or two others might have posted similar requests too.
Thanks to all who want to support a fellow member!!
Ronn
