Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers have won Song of the Year – Jazz/Blues for “Just Walk Away” at the 11th Annual Josie Music Awards, held November 2, 2025, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.
The event celebrated independent music, honoring standout artists and drawing global attendees. “Just Walk Away,” from the band’s album Burn It Down – released January 2025 – blends Southern blues rock with driving rhythms and Derrick Dove’s gravelly vocals. Co-written by Dove, Jamie Lee Richardson, Johnathan David Thomas, and Jason Walt Dunn (Wicked Walrus Music, BMI), it explores heartbreak and resilience. Released as a single in March 2025, it has earned acclaim on Spotify and Apple Music.
“This win reflects the passion in our music,” said Dove. “We’re thankful to the Josie Music Awards and our fans. ‘Just Walk Away’ reminds us that moving forward can set you free.”
From South Georgia, the band fuses blues traditions with rock edge, influenced by Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. Their 2023 album Rough Time gained praise and Burn It Down builds on that momentum with hits like “Can’t Move On” and “Soul Revival.”
The Josie Music Awards, founded by Josie Passantino-Boone and Tinamarie Passantino, received over 75,000 submissions, judged by industry pros. Highlights included performances and Lorrie Morgan’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers is a Southern blues rock band based out of Tifton and led by Derrick Dove’s vocals and guitar. The band has released two albums, Rough Time (2023), Burn It Down (2025). The band will be touring the nation in 2026; stream Burn It Down on major platforms and visit www.derrickdove.com for shows.