Britt Awards 2026: Olivia Dean and Lola Young Lead Nominations
In an exciting lead-up to the 2026 Brit Awards, Brit School alumni Olivia Dean and Lola Young have emerged as frontrunners, each securing five nominations. The indie rock band Pulp also makes headlines for their first nomination for Best Group in three decades, signaling a noteworthy shift in the music landscape.
This year’s nominations reflect a diverse tapestry of musical talent, highlighting both established acts and emerging artists. The Brit Awards, set to take place at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, are not just a celebration of music; they also spotlight the evolving dynamics within the industry.
Key Developments
- Olivia Dean receives nominations for Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Pop Act.
- Lola Young is nominated for Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Artist, Best Alt/Rock Act, Best Pop Act, and Song of the Year for “Messy.”
- Pulp gets a nod for Best Group for the first time since 1996.
- Other notable nominees include Sam Fender, Taylor Swift, and Lily Allen.
- The ceremony will be held on February 28, 2026, being broadcast live on ITV and ITVX.
Full Report
Nominees Announced
Olivia Dean, who is also set to perform at the upcoming ceremony, expressed her joy at being nominated multiple times, calling it “crazy.” She is celebrated in various categories, including two nominations in the coveted Song of the Year section.
Lola Young follows closely with nominations in categories such as Artist of the Year and Best Alt/Rock Act for her breakout hit “Messy.” Both artists aim to cement their roles in the British music industry as they vie for top honors.
Pulp’s Historic Recognition
The iconic band Pulp, known for their influence on the Britpop movement, has received their first nomination for Best Group since 1996. This recognition could herald a resurgence not only for the band but potentially for the Britpop genre itself.
International Representation
Hollywood’s influence is also evident, with nominations for artists such as Cynthia Erivo and the K-pop group Kpop Demon Hunters in various international categories. Furthermore, some of pop’s biggest names, including Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter, will contend for the title of International Artist of the Year.
Emerging Artists and Continued Success
In addition to seasoned performers, the awards highlight fresh talent. Sam Fender, having recently won the 2025 Mercury Prize, hopes to secure the Best Alternative/Rock Act for a second consecutive year with four nominations under his name.
Context & Previous Events
This year marks a significant relocation for the Brit Awards, as it will be hosted at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, along with the Mercury Prize also moving north. The focus remains on recognizing emerging talent and established stars alike, setting the stage for a vibrant ceremony that promises to deliver captivating performances and moments.
