The Mercury Prize returned to Newcastle on Thursday evening, with the ceremony held at the Utilita Arena for the second consecutive year. The event, which left London for the first time in its history last year, brought a host of music stars to the North East red carpet.
Stars arrive at the Utilita Arena
Among those spotted arriving were joint favourites Olivia Dean and Nia Archives, both at 7/2 in the final odds. Former winners Suede and Pulp were also present, representing artists who appeared on the new War Child album. Other attendees included RAYE, Florence Welch, Kojey, and JADE, the former Little Mix star who is nominated for her debut solo record That's Showbiz Baby.
Two North East acts made this year's shortlist: JADE and local jazz trio Knats, whose album A Great Day in Newcastle earned them a nomination. The event followed a week-long programme of Fringe events across Tyneside, held in venues from concert halls to pubs.
Geordie winner from last year
Last year's ceremony was a landmark for the region, as Sam Fender took home the Album of the Year trophy for People Watching, his third number 1 album, beating favourites CMAT and Fontaines DC. The event marked the prize's first departure from London in its history, with organisers choosing Newcastle as its new home.
ChronicleLive photographers captured the looks and poses of the arriving artists in a 26-picture gallery, documenting the night's fashion and atmosphere before fans were let into the arena.
