The music industry is abuzz as the nominations for the Brit Awards 2026 have been unveiled, with Olivia Dean and Lola Young emerging as the frontrunners, each securing an impressive five nominations. The announcement was made during a livestreamed event from Co-op Live in Manchester on Wednesday evening, setting the stage for a highly anticipated ceremony next month.
Top Contenders and Notable Nominations
Olivia Dean and Lola Young are set to compete across multiple categories, including best pop act, artist of the year, and best song. Dean's album The Art of Loving and single Man I Need have earned her critical acclaim, while Young's hit Messy has propelled her into the spotlight, also landing her a nomination for breakthrough act.
Sam Fender and Lily Allen Shine
Sam Fender, the recent Mercury Prize winner, has received four nominations, showcasing his versatility with nods for artist of the year, alternative rock act, and best album for People Watching. Lily Allen makes a strong comeback with her album West End Girl, nominated in three categories: best album, artist of the year, and pop act. The album, her first in seven years, has sparked discussions for its personal themes.
Historic and Rising Stars
In a nostalgic turn, Britpop legends Pulp have scored their first nomination in three decades, competing in the best group category against acts like Last Dinner Party and Wolf Alice. Meanwhile, rising star Jim Legxacy, a rapper and producer from Lewisham, has garnered attention with nominations in breakthrough, hip hop, grime, rap, and R&B categories, highlighting the diverse talent in this year's lineup.
Category Highlights and Public Voting
The artist of the year category is dominated by female acts, including Jade, Pink Pantheress, and Self Esteem, promising a competitive field. For the first time, the public will be able to cast votes via WhatsApp for the song of the year and international song of the year categories, adding an interactive element to the awards.
Ceremony Details
Hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall, the Brit Awards 2026 will be broadcast live on ITV and ITVX on February 28. The red carpet coverage will be presented by influencer Charley Marlowe and TV presenter Tyler West, following the nomination ceremony hosted by DJ Sarah Story and Marlowe.
With a mix of established icons and emerging talents, the Brit Awards 2026 nominations reflect a vibrant and evolving music scene, promising an unforgettable celebration of British and international artistry.
