Brit Awards 2026: Women and Non-Binary Artists Lead Historic Nominations
In a groundbreaking shift, the 2026 Brit Awards nominations are dominated by women and non-binary artists, who account for nearly 70 percent of all nominees. This marks the highest representation in the award show's history, reflecting a significant move towards greater diversity in the music industry. The ceremony itself is making history by relocating from London to Manchester for the first time, scheduled for 28 February at the Co-Op Live arena.
Top Contenders and Major Categories
Olivia Dean and Lola Young emerge as the frontrunners, each securing five nominations. Both artists are vying for the prestigious Artist of the Year award, alongside other notable nominees like Lily Allen, Sam Fender, and Little Simz. Dean, aged 26, had a standout year in 2025 with her second album, The Art of Loving, and hit singles such as "Man I Need" and "Nice to Each Other." She is nominated twice for Song of the Year, for "Man I Need" and her collaboration with Sam Fender, "Rein Me In."
Dean expressed her excitement, stating, "It feels crazy to have five Brit Award nominations, it's very surreal and I'm still processing it. I remember watching the Brits on TV when I was younger, and having gone to Brit School and now having this full-circle moment 10 years later, attending the awards is going to feel very emotional."
Album of the Year and Other Key Nominations
The Album of the Year category features a strong lineup, including:
- Dave – The Boy Who Played the Harp
- Lily Allen – West End Girl
- Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving
- Sam Fender – People Watching
- Wolf Alice – The Clearing
Lily Allen's comeback album, West End Girl, which candidly explores the breakdown of a marriage, is also up for Album of the Year. Allen is additionally nominated for Artist of the Year and Best Pop. Meanwhile, Britpop legends Pulp make a triumphant return with their first Brit nomination in three decades, competing for Best Group.
International Recognition and Diversity
This year's nominations highlight the global and diverse nature of popular music. The International Solo Artist category includes:
- Bad Bunny
- Chappell Roan
- CMAT
- Rosalia
- Doechii
- Taylor Swift
- Sabrina Carpenter
- Lady Gaga
For International Group, nominees range from New York band Geese to LA pop trio Haim and Hunter X, known for songs from the Netflix film K Pop Demon Hunters. The Song of the Year and International Song categories will be decided by public vote, featuring tracks from artists like Calvin Harris, Lewis Capaldi, and Taylor Swift.
Full List of Nominations
Artist of the Year: Dave, Fred Again, JADE, Lily Allen, Little Simz, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, PinkPantheress, Sam Fender, Self Esteem.
Group of the Year: The Last Dinner Party, Pulp, Sleep Token, Wet Leg, Wolf Alice.
Breakthrough Artist: Barry Can't Swim, EsDeeKid, Jim Legxacy, Lola Young, Sky Newman.
Alternative/Rock: Blood Orange, Lola Young, Sam Fender, Wet Leg, Wolf Alice.
Pop: JADE, Lily Allen, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, RAYE.
Hip-hop/Grime/Rap: Central Cee, Dave, Jim Legxacy, Little Simz, Loyle Carner.
R&B: Jim Legxacy, KWN, Mabel, Sasha Keeble, Sault.
Dance Act: Calvin Harris and Clementine Douglas, FKA twigs, Fred Again, Skepta and PlaqueBoyMax, PinkPantheress, Sammy Virgi.
Critics Choice: Jacob Alon.
The 2026 Brit Awards, hosted by Jack Whitehall, promise to be a landmark event, celebrating musical excellence and inclusivity in Manchester.
