The wait is over! Tonight marks the spectacular return of the Mercury Prize, celebrating the very best in British and Irish music. The music industry's eyes will be firmly fixed on London's iconic Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith as the most prestigious award in UK music crowns its 2025 champion.
When and Where to Catch the Action
Music enthusiasts can tune in live from 9pm BST to witness the ceremony unfold in all its glory. For those unable to secure a coveted ticket to the London venue, fear not - the entire event will be broadcast live on BBC Four, with additional streaming available via BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sounds app.
The Stellar Lineup of Nominees
This year's shortlist showcases an incredible diversity of musical talent across genres. Among the twelve acclaimed albums competing for the £25,000 prize and immeasurable prestige are:
- Brittany Howard with her powerful solo project
- Porij bringing their unique electronic sound
- John Glacier representing the cutting edge of UK rap
- Matthew Halsall with his mesmerising jazz compositions
- Megan Linnell showcasing emerging singer-songwriter talent
The competition remains fierce, with judges set to deliberate throughout the evening before announcing the ultimate winner.
What Makes the Mercury Prize Special?
Unlike many music awards, the Mercury Prize focuses exclusively on artistic achievement rather than commercial success. The judging panel, comprised of musicians, producers, journalists and industry figures, evaluates albums based on their creative merit and contribution to British music culture.
Past winners have seen their careers transformed overnight, with previous recipients including household names like Arctic Monkeys, Dave and Little Simz.
Tonight's Performances to Watch
The ceremony promises electrifying live performances from several shortlisted artists, offering audiences a taste of why these albums stood out from hundreds of submissions. These performances often become legendary moments in Mercury Prize history, showcasing raw talent in an intimate setting.
Whether you're rooting for an established star or discovering new favourite artists, tonight's ceremony promises to be an unforgettable celebration of musical excellence that could change an artist's career forever.
