The Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) announced that the first-ever WAMI Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented jointly to Claire and the late Michael Sardina, the duo behind the band Lightning & Thunder.

For many years, the Sardinas performed at Wisconsin State Fair, Summerfest and more as the Neil Diamond/Patsy Cline/ABBA/Blondie tribute act Lightning & Thunder.

As OnMilwaukee reported last October, their lives will be illuminated in an upcoming feature film starring Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman.

The WAMI award will be presented at the 45th Annual WAMI Awards Show on Sunday, May 4, at The Deco in West Allis. Claire will perform live, joined by West Allis native Jackie Brown and Neil Diamond tribute artist Eric Diamond.

As Lightning and Thunder, the Sardinas were staples at festivals and events throughout the region. Their story, captured in the acclaimed documentary "Song Sung Blue," showcased their unwavering spirit in the face of personal and professional challenges. Their musical journey reached a milestone with a guest performance alongside Pearl Jam at Summerfest.

“Claire and Michael Sardina are a love story set to music—one that echoes far beyond the stage,” said Jessie Greenwald, Vice President of WAMI. “They didn’t just entertain, they uplifted. They gave Wisconsin decades of music, heart, and inspiration. Honoring them together with our first Lifetime Achievement Award is not only fitting. It’s poetic.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is a new distinction from WAMI, created to honor individuals whose lifelong contributions have made a lasting impact on Wisconsin’s music community.

The 45th Annual WAMI Awards Show will also feature additional live performances, a Prohibition-era theme and recognition across a range of music categories—from songwriters and instrumentalists to educators and venues.

Tickets are $45 and are on sale now at wami.org.