Mercury Prize 2024: Nominees Announced
The Mercury Prize, celebrating the best British and Irish albums, has unveiled its highly anticipated shortlist for 2024. The panel of judges, led by BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music head Jeff Smith, have chosen a diverse range of artists representing various genres, showcasing the vibrant musical landscape of the UK and Ireland.
This year's nominees include pop sensation Charli XCX with her provocative "BRAT," soulful singer Beth Gibbons' introspective "Lives Outgrown," and the rising star Nia Archives' experimental electronic masterpiece "Silence Is Loud." Other contenders include the captivating sounds of Barry Can't Swim's "When Will We Land?" and the captivating storytelling of Berwyn's "Who Am I."
The shortlist also features Corinne Bailey Rae's evocative "Black Rainbows," Ghetts' thought-provoking "On Purpose, With Purpose," and The Last Dinner Party's captivating "Prelude to Ecstasy," among others. The nominees are a testament to the breadth and depth of musical talent emerging from the UK and Ireland, reflecting a range of styles from indie rock to jazz and hip-hop.
This year's ceremony will mark a significant shift in the award's format. For the first time in its 32-year history, the traditional public ceremony will be scrapped. The winner will be announced in September, but the exact format and announcement details remain undisclosed.
The judging panel comprises a diverse group of music experts, including renowned musician Jamie Cullum, DJs Mistajam and Jamz Supernova, and respected journalists like Phil Alexander, Will Hodgkinson, and Sophie Williams. Their combined expertise will ensure a rigorous and informed selection process, culminating in the crowning of the year's most exceptional British or Irish album.
The 2024 Mercury Prize nominees are:
Barry Canât Swim - When Will We Land?
Berwyn - Who Am I
Beth Gibbons - Lives Outgrown
Cat Burns - Early Twenties
Charli XCX - BRAT
CMAT - Crazymad, for Me
Corinne Bailey Rae - Black Rainbows
Corto.alto - Bad With Names
English Teacher - This Could Be Texas
Ghetts - On Purpose, With Purpose
Nia Archives - Silence Is Loud
The Last Dinner Party - Prelude to Ecstasy
As the music world eagerly awaits the announcement of the winner, the Mercury Prize continues to serve as a vital platform for recognizing and celebrating the best of British and Irish music.
