Sir Paul McCartney has been shortlisted for the 2026 Mercury Prize alongside artists Olivia Dean and Raye. The prize, created in 1992, is awarded each year to the best album by an artist from the UK or Ireland.
Nominated Albums
The nominated albums include Sir Paul's latest work, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, and Olivia Dean's The Art of Loving, which won Album of the Year at the Brit Awards. The Beatles star's album recounts memories from his formative years in Liverpool. The 14-track record was named after a road close to his childhood home in Forthlin Road in Speke. Released at the end of May, it was Sir Paul's first album in five years and reached number one on the UK album charts.
Full Shortlist
Also on the shortlist are Raye's This Music May Contain Hope, Dave's The Boy Who Played The Harp, Florence and the Machine's Everybody Scream, Dove Ellis's Blizzard, and Knats' A Great Day in Newcastle. The list is completed by Kojey Radical's Don't Look Down, Former Little Mix star Jade with That's Showbiz Baby!, Nia Archives for Emotional Junglist, Suede with Antidepressants, and War Child Records with HELP(2).
Ceremony Details
Albums are nominated based on musical merit, irrespective of how successful the record or act have been in the year. The event will feature live performances from many of the nominated artists before the winner is announced. The Mercury Prize ceremony will be held on Thursday October 22 at the Utilita Arena Newcastle. The event was also held in Newcastle in 2025, its first year outside London.
Recent Winners
Sam Fender won last year's prize for his album People Watching. Other winners in recent years include English Teacher, Little Simz, Arlo Parks, and Wolf Alice. Along with a trophy, the winner of the Mercury Prize receives £25,000.
