The Mercury Prize 2026 shortlist was announced on Thursday morning, bringing delight for two North East acts. Pop icon JADE and Newcastle quintet Knats are among the nominees for the prestigious award, following Sam Fender's win last year.
The annual ceremony is widely regarded as championing the best of British music. Past winners include Dizzee Rascal, Ms Dynamite, Skepta, and Dave, with Primal Scream taking the first accolade in 1992. In 2024, English Teacher won for their debut album This Could be Texas, and last year Sam Fender triumphed with People Watching.
North East Acts on the Shortlist
JADE, from South Shields, is nominated for her debut album THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY!, following her successful solo career after leaving Little Mix. Newcastle quintet Knats, hailing from the West End and now studying in London, are in the mix for their second album A Great Day in Newcastle, described as a Geordie jazz noir exploration of the North East working-class experience.
Full Mercury Prize 2026 Shortlist
- Dave – The Boy Who Played the Harp
- Dove Ellis – Blizzard
- Florence + The Machine – Everybody Scream
- JADE – THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY!
- Knats – A Great Day In Newcastle
- Kojey Radical – Don't Look Down
- Nia Archives – Emotional Junglist
- Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving
- Paul McCartney – The Boys of Dungeon Lane
- RAYE – THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE.
- Suede – Antidepressants
- War Child Records – HELP(2)
The winner will be announced at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle on October 22, where JADE and Knats hope to follow in Sam Fender's footsteps.
