Jack White to Receive Innovation Award at 2025 NAMM TEC Awards

Raised in Detroit, the youngest of 10 siblings, a guitar, bass, piano, mandolin and percussion player, an artist, performer and innovator of boundary-pushing sounds — this is just a slice of what describes Jack White.

The legendary musician, singer, songwriter and producer will receive the prestigious Innovation Award at the annual NAMM TEC Awards, taking place on Thursday, Jan. 23, at the Anaheim Convention Center as part of The 2025 NAMM Show. In addition to receiving the award, Jack White will perform a thrilling show with his band, bringing his iconic music to what’s expected to be a packed house of music industry leaders and professionals.

Now in its 40th year, the NAMM TEC Awards celebrates the best in professional audio and sound production, with the Innovation Award bestowed upon an individual who takes the tools of the music trade and goes beyond what most expect. Over the course of his career, Jack White has given fans the world over just that — unexpected innovation.

Jack White’s deep connection to his gear is integral to his craft. Within the realm of guitar pedals, Jack’s collaboration on the Triplegraph transformed real-time sound manipulation. He’s modified pedals in his own Third Man Hardware line of effects, with a focus on vintage-inspired sound characteristics. 

His custom guitars, crafted with input from renowned designers, are as personalized as the electrifying riffs he’s produced with them. In the video below, Jack walks through the special features of the Jack White Fender Triplecaster. He talks about the years of road testing and collaboration with Fender designers to, as Jack puts it, “create something that’s a useful tool for all the guitar players and all the musicians.”

Through his independent record label, Third Man Records, Jack has further solidified his role as an innovator and risk-taker. He has championed analog music and vinyl’s revival by launching a vinyl pressing plant in Detroit in 2001. In today’s world of music streaming, who would have thought that physical music would make a comeback?      

In a CBS This Morning report, Jack says he was surprised that the record label profited, and that his goal was to “get away from invisible music ” by bringing back physical records. 

What started off as a desire to re-release the White Stripes records on vinyl has become a wildly successful pressing plant, a Nashville, TN location featuring the Blue Room where the label can capture live performances with direct-to-acetate recording, and a record shop popular with vinyl fans of all ages. The unique packaging and pressing techniques have turned the label’s records into collectible art pieces, reigniting public appreciation for music you can hold in your hands.

Speaking of records, each of Jack White’s albums is a testament to the artistry of his ever-evolving sound. “Seven Nation Army” from his “Elephant” studio album became a modern rock anthem, with its iconic bassline showing music lovers how to do a lot with a little. With The Raconteurs, Jack explored the heart of storytelling through rock, and with The Dead Weather, he ventured into edgier soundscapes. 

The release of his new album, “No Name,” was a masterstroke of Jack’s creativity. Before its official August 2024 release, unsuspecting Third Man Records store customers got a free unmarked vinyl copy of the album slipped into their shopping bags. This playfully sneaky move not only delighted fans, but also reflected Jack’s affinity for giving people an exciting musical experience and building community among his fans. YouTube audiences have expressed their enthusiasm for the new record, with commenters writing, “Can't wait to blast this on vinyl,” “Iconic Jack” and “You’re hitting them out of the park, Jack. You are really giving it to us. We love it.”

There’s no wonder why “No Name” has received such praise. Recorded, produced and mixed by Jack at his Third Man Studio, “No Name” is pressed to vinyl by his own Third Man Pressing and released by Third Man Records. From ideation to the vinyl you set on your record player, Jack’s ingenuity permeates every aspect of his music production journey. 

Jack White continues to experiment with new ideas and innovative gear while staying rooted in rock and blues traditions. By taking a disruptive approach to his projects and following the incredible muse that’s always been with him, Jack shows artists and fans how uncharted musical territories can still be discovered. For these reasons, NAMM is thrilled to recognize Jack White with the 2025 Innovation Award.

Join Us for The 40th Annual NAMM TEC Awards

Our 40th year of celebrating the best in sound and pro audio is going to be a night to remember. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable Jack White performance at The TEC Awards, along with recognition of all finalists at the evening reception. See the 2025 NAMM TEC Awards Finalists and purchase tickets in advance.

You can also register for The NAMM Show to explore the latest gear innovations from leading and startup music brands, attend five days of education sessions and events, network and enjoy live music from our dozens of Bands at NAMM performances.