Mercury Prize 2025 heads to Newcastle as a diverse shortlist takes the stage
The Mercury Prize 2025 arrives in Newcastle this evening, the first time the ceremony has taken place outside London since the prize began. The move reflects a wider push to recognise music scenes across Britain and Ireland. A strong shortlist of twelve albums brings together returning names and newer voices, with bookmakers placing CMAT’s Euro-Country and Pulp’s More among the favourites.
The field is notably broad. Fontaines DC are shortlisted for Romance, a record that has helped the band cross further into the mainstream. Wolf Alice appear again with The Clearing, completing a rare run of shortlist nods for all four of their studio albums. Folk musician Martin Carthy, now 84, is recognised for Transform Me Then Into a Fish, a reflective re-imagining of material from a remarkable career. Sam Fender carries local hopes with People Watching, a candid look at working-class life in the north.
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Read the articleThe remaining nominees underline the range of styles in contention: Emma-Jean Thackray’s Weirdo, FKA Twigs’ Eusexua, Jacob Alon’s In Limerence, Joe Webb’s Hamstrings and Hurricanes, Pa Salieu’s Afrikan Alien, PinkPantheress’ Fancy That, and Pulp’s More. Performances from most of the shortlisted artists are due on stage at the Utilita Arena, with filmed pieces for the rest.
Moving Mercury Prize 2025 to Newcastle is more than a change of backdrop. Organisers have spoken about decentralising opportunity and spotlighting talent beyond the capital. Fringe events in the city have included concerts and workshops for emerging musicians, adding momentum to a week that now culminates in tonight’s award.
Further details
Timings, broadcast and background information are on the official site.
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