Newcastle Hosts the Mercury Prize Ceremony for the Second Consecutive Year

The city of Newcastle welcomed music icons, nominees, and fans on Thursday night as it hosted the prestigious Mercury Prize for the second year in a row. Following a successful relocation north last year—when Tyneside native Sam Fender claimed the Album of the Year award for People Watching—the event once again brought the spotlight to the Utilita Arena.

This year's shortlist featured a mix of established acts and rising stars in British music. Among the nominees competing for the top honor were Suede, who first won the accolade in 1993, and Pulp, representing the War Child album. Regional representation was notably strong, with South Shields singer JADE and Newcastle jazz trio Knats both making the cut.

Ahead of the ceremony, the competition proved exceptionally tight. Joint favorites Olivia Dean and Nia Archives entered the evening neck and neck with odds of 7/2, followed closely by Dove Ellis and RAYE. RAYE made a striking red-carpet entrance in an opera-inspired bronze coat from Taller Marmo's spring 2027 collection, styled by Eniola Dare to reflect the classical influences on her nominated album, This Music May Contain Hope.

JADE also reflected on a whirlwind week that saw a massive surge in streams for her song Angel of My Dreams after it was featured in a Victoria's Secret fashion show. Speaking on the red carpet, she shared her excitement about returning to perform in her home region in front of family and friends.

Local favorites Knats expressed enthusiasm about carrying the hopes of their hometown. Simon Duke, known as King David Ike-Elechi, remarked on the supportive atmosphere in Newcastle, noting that the group felt thoroughly prepared and inspired for their performance of Wor Jackie.

The ceremony kicked off at 8:00 p.m., with nearly all shortlisted acts scheduled to perform live on stage. Viewers at home could tune in to television coverage starting on BBC Four or listen live via BBC Radio 6 Music as the evening approached its milestone announcement crowning the 2026 winner.