Top Music Stars Converge in Newcastle for Mercury Prize 2025
Top music stars from across Britain and Ireland have gathered in Newcastle for the prestigious Mercury Prize 2025. This prestigious event marks a historic moment, as it is being held outside London for the first time in its 33-year history.
Notable Participants and Performers
Hosted by Sunderland’s Lauren Laverne, the ceremony is set for 20:00 BST at the Utilita Arena. North Shields singer Sam Fender is among the performers, exciting local audiences and offering visibility to emerging talent in the area.
Impact on Local Musicians
- Sam Fender, a shortlisted nominee, aims to inspire future generations in the North East.
- Martin Carthy MBE, the oldest nominee at 84, praised the move north as a “master stroke.”
- Nominees Emma Jean Thackray and Joe Webb reflect on the positive attention the North is receiving.
Thackray expressed enthusiasm about the event bringing recognition to musicians outside of London. Webb noted that audiences in the North create an encouraging atmosphere for performers.
The Mercury Prize Fringe Events
In the lead-up to the awards, various performances took place, including those by Middlesbrough country singer Finn Forster. He highlighted the significance of the event for local musicians, stating that it allows them to envision successful careers within the industry.
The Mini Mercury Choir, consisting of schoolchildren from the region, showcased their talents by performing Sam Fender’s “People Watching” at the Tyneside Cinema, further enhancing the event’s community spirit.
A New Era for the Mercury Prize
According to Gareth Miller from the North East Music Hub, such opportunities allow young musicians to see pathways for success beyond London. He emphasized the potential for local talent to grow through exposure to the Mercury Prize.
Chair of the British Phonographic Industry, Yolanda Brown, noted the excitement surrounding this year’s awards. She stated that moving the ceremony to Newcastle sends a strong message about the recognition of talent in the North East and presents a chance for local artists to thrive.
Exciting Nominees for 2025
| Nominee | Notable Work |
|---|---|
| CMAT | Favourite to Win |
| PinkPantheress | Highly Anticipated |
| Wolf Alice | Recent Success |
| Pulp | Long-time Artists |
The Mercury Prize 2025 promises to be a significant celebration of music, showcasing exceptional talent and innovation in the North of England.
