#IMPicks: Our Thoughts on The BRIT Awards
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Awards Season continues and we now move on to The BRIT Awards, one of the biggest nights in U.K. music. Our writers have come together as they did for The Grammys to decide who is worthy of a prize.
It’s been a fantastic year for music from addictive R’n’B to club-ready pop and dance music. However, let us see where The BRITS got it right and got it wrong, and who should pick up a gong.
Contributors: Emily Teague (Journalist), Kloe Paton (Editor/Journalist), and Thomas Atkinson (Editor-in-Chief)
British Album of the Year
Kloe: Charli xcx – BRAT
I’ll start by saying that there was no doubt that ‘Radical Optimism‘ by Dua Lipa would be nominated. But, in my opinion, this project has been, well, radically overlooked despite its hit singles. Dua has many great deep cuts on this album, and despite my certainty that ‘BRAT‘ will clinch the win in this category, I wanted to draw attention to this solid project. Again, ‘On Purpose, With Purpose‘ by Ghetts is missing from the nomination list which is unfortunate. Furthermore, Little Simz’s release ‘Drop 7‘ seems to have fallen off the radar for many and was a real musical high point in 2024.
Emily: Charli xcx – BRAT
Charli xcx has mastered her marketing with her latest album, ‘BRAT‘. The record defined many people’s summers and has demonstrated itself as a cultural piece of work as well as an enjoyable listen. I think it would be surprising if she didn’t win considering how widespread the impact of her latest LP has been as well as being a genuinely good pop and dance project. While there are other artists I enjoy who have been nominated, I don’t believe any of the other records have had the success and notoriety needed to win one of the most important categories of the BRITS. As an album, regardless of the year had by each artist, this nomination is by far the clear winner in my mind.
Tom: Charli xcx – BRAT
To be honest, this is a pretty stacked category with some great albums that made not only noise but impact as well. Although, as Kloe mentioned, some appraisal for Ghetts or even Potter Payper’s new record is warranted. If you have checked out our albums of the year list, you will know I only have one winner. Yes, I did indeed have a ‘BRAT‘ summer and as such, Charli’s magnum opus should be the winner.
Song of the Year
Kloe: Jordan Adetunji – KEHLANI
I felt let down by this category. For some reason, I felt we had more diversity and more hits come out of the U.K. last year than what is being represented here. None of these songs really stand out to me, but I would like to see Jordan Adetunji clench a BRIT with the ultra-catchy ‘KEHLANI’. I also like the Stormzy and Chase & Status ‘BACKBONE’ record, and JADE’s ‘Angel of My Dreams‘ fully deserves the nod – but none speak to me as a clear winner.
Emily: Charli xcx FT. Billie Eilish – Guess
After their Grammy win, it is a possibility The Beatles could take this one home for their final record, ‘Now And Then‘. As a fan of theirs, I understand the cultural significance of this track yet I believe that some of the other nominees are more worthy. The group has produced some incredible music during their career and I think this song is receiving more recognition simply for the fact it is a landmark in their career rather than musicality.
Artemas has had major success with the track ‘i like the way you kiss me‘ taking social media by storm. This could be a potential winner for the year. The Charli xcx track ‘Guess‘, which features Billie Eilish is another potential. They achieved the perfect combination for a pop record – a guest artist with major appeal along with a catchy single.
Tom: Charli xcx FT. Billie Eilish – Guess
This category focuses on the big hitters so it will always be a mixture of viral songs and hits from the megastars. There are plenty of tracks I garner some enjoyment from, in particular, the fantastic crossover by Chase & Status and Stormzy or the addictive summer anthem ‘Somedays‘. For me, the track that has been in my rotation the longest and brings the most to the table is ‘Guess‘. A top-class collaboration, full of booming beats, addictive lyricism, and cheeky humour, this one is my pick.
British Artist of the Year
Kloe: Charli xcx
The BRATS – sorry – the BRITS – have shown major love this year for Charli xcx, and rightfully so. The cultural impact worldwide of her sixth studio effort is undeniable. She is one of the U.K.’s finest and most beloved musicians and I think deserves the win this year. I love that Nia Archives and Michael Kiwanuka also got a nod. They are two very different artists who display the variety of British talent we have on offer. However, I am quite disappointed at the lack of rap/grime and R’n’B representation in this category. I would’ve liked to have seen Ghetts join Central Cee in the nominations as I’ve had his recent album on repeat all year.
Emily: beabadoobe
This year’s artists represent a mixture of identities, musical influences, and subcultures. This is exactly how it should be and the majority of artists listed would be worthy of the recognition this award provides. beabadoobee and Central Cee are two I believe could potentially take this award. Both have been recognised for a number of years but seem to have pushed further into positive critical reception and audience enjoyment than ever before.
Tom: Charli xcx
I feel like I’m becoming a little predictable, but Charli did have an amazing year musically and culturally. The rollout, the videos, and the tunes just hit and brought what she has been doing to a larger audience. I’ve also really enjoyed Rachel Chinouriri’s breakout into the mainstream, the return of Jamie xx, and Nia Archives blending brit-pop with jungle, and to be honest most people here are great musicians. However, it’s still this Essex girl’s year.
British Group
Kloe: Ezra Collective
As a low-key jazz fan, I’d like to see Ezra Collective clench the win. I adore their joyous music. Their latest album ‘Dance, No One’s Watching‘ is one big liberating palette cleanser. They are a breath of fresh air!
Emily: The Cure
My initial thought on this year’s ‘Group of the Year’ category is how diverse the musical styles of the nominees are. It’s refreshing to see the likes of indie/alternative rock as well as more mainstream pop and rock represented. The Cure‘s comeback has been strong, with their album ‘Songs Of A Lost World‘ making them my artist of choice for this category. However, Bring Me The Horizon has had a really strong year in terms of being able to amass a large fanbase and break barriers that often enclose alternative artists. They would be a very worthy candidate for this award.
Tom: Ezra Collective
This is a really tough one as outside of Coldplay, everyone came through with some quality material. The Cure’s return was worth the wait and The Last Dinner Party broke through with a bang. For me, it is great to see Ezra Collective getting the love they deserve and that new Bring Me record was very underrated. Between these two, the jazz quintet just takes it ahead of the Sheffield band, but both are equally deserving.
Best Pop Act
Kloe: Charli xcx
I wouldn’t normally comment on pop too much, but I have to fly my flag for ‘BRAT‘. That record has really won me over. I also want to give a shout-out to JADE, who has had one of the best band-to-solo breakthroughs in recent times and found her footing as a disco-pop diva. You gotta love it.
Tom: Charli xcx
I’ve enjoyed what I have heard from JADE so far, who is proving to be the most interesting post-Little Mix. Furthermore, ‘Messy‘ is a memorable and passionate performance, for someone who is going to go places. But, yeah, despite releasing a few pop bangers, Dua Lipa isn’t near Charli for me. Although, as this is a fan vote, Dua might have this in the bag again for another year.
Best R’n’B Act
Kloe: RAYE
As an R’n’B fan, I feel there is a lack of love for this category in particular. On the other hand, it does make me question who our major U.K. R’n’B stars are, that could actually ever compete with the Charli’s and Dua Lipa’s of the U.K.
My first instinct was, that it has to be my girl Cleo Sol. But when I consider the output in the last year, I can’t deny that RAYE should take the win. I can’t lie, I loved ‘falling or flying‘ by Jorja Smith, and Michael Kiwanuka has had a real breakout year. However, ‘My 21st Century Blues‘ was such a moment for pop and R’n’B, it cannot be overlooked. RAYE is bold, brilliant, and deserves that BRIT.
Tom: FLO
This category baffles me a bit. For those that don’t know, to be nominated in the genre categories you need a top 40 single or album. Now, Cleo Sol didn’t chart last year, Jorja Smith did off a Christmas cover, and Michael Kiwanuka’s new album doesn’t really feel like an R’n’B record. Also, if we’re going to choose people who didn’t chart this year, why not go for someone like Jaz Karis, Shaé Universe, Odeal, or others who released projects last year?
This feels like laziness and a lack of care for the category, but last year was a big one for FLO. The project was a great display of their talents and had a fair bit of success too. With a dedicated fanbase, I think they’ll get it, although RAYE will push them all the way.
Best Dance Act
Tom: Nia Archives
For me, being nominated in two genre categories is kinda cheating so I’m gonna look away from Charli here. Fred will push all the way, and I did enjoy his new record quite a bit, but Nia absolutely deserves this. She has not only pushed jungle back into the mainstream but also produced a poignant and fun new album that blends her sound with Brit pop and indie rock. It was a great record that showed passion, songwriting ability, and an ear for a hit. And with Charli basically telling her fans whatever, she has a good chance of taking this home.
Best Alternative/Rock Act
Emily: The Cure
I wish that there’d be more of a variation between this selection and ‘Group of the Year’. With more alternative and rock acts pushing into mainstream categories, it would be nice to see some more obscure and less appreciated artists able to receive this nomination.
I do have a soft spot for legends The Cure and their latest album did not disappoint. Robert Smith has a timeless voice that transcends the genres of goth and alternative that he is recognised for.
Tom: The Last Dinner Party
Aside from a jazz act like Ezra Collective being included in a rock category and the omission of Bring Me The Horizon, this is a competitive category. beabadoobee is an artist who I had little thoughts about initially but has really come through on her latest record. The Cure’s new material was a nice atmospheric, nostlagia trip and Sam Fender gave us some enjoyable songs. And The BRIT goes too… The Last Dinner Party, as their addictive on artsy rock, had me the most intrigued in 2024. Also, Abigail Morris is a very talented vocalist who should achieve icon status if she maintains a solid discography.
Best Hip Hop/Grime/Rap Act
Kloe: Central Cee
The BRITS covered the main players quite well in this nomination list. However, I feel like Potter Payper was snubbed. ‘Thanks For Hating‘ was a consistent, solid addition to his discography and one of my favourite project coming out of the U.K. last year. The awards covered all the ‘big sellers’ as such, with the exception of D-Block Europe. The duo broke several records, reached high positions on the charts early last year, and had one of the biggest-selling albums in this genre in the past 12 months. Their contribution to the U.K. scene should not be underplayed. It also reminded me that a lot of the great rap we saw in the last year flew under the radar sales and pop culture-wise as other genres garnered greater radio play.
I think this will be a clear win for Central Cee. He has been the U.K.’s primary rap export in the in the last year. He has really made waves for himself in the U.S. In addition, his very recent album ‘CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS‘ has really shown his growth as an MC.
Emily: Little Simz
Little Simz has gone from strength to strength in recent years and she deserves some more recognition. Ever since her feature on the Gorillaz track ‘Garage Palace‘ back in 2017, I have been interested in following her journey. I think her voice is distinct and stands out amongst the scenes she is associated with.
Dave and Stormzy are both well-established and well-respected by music critics and music enjoyers alike. Both have produced the music and the reputation needed to take home this win. However, it would be good to see some fresh faces continue to break boundaries that are constantly needing to be pushed.
Tom: Ghetts
Again, we have a category where the voting members were just like “Eh. Let’s pick this famous rapper.”. Dave is barely eligible based on a Jack Harlow collab that charted right at the end of 2023. Furthermore, Simz and Stormzy are here based on features. Speaking of those features, why is Headie One not nominated? Considering that Skrapz, Potter, D-Block, and Nines had top 10 albums, while Pozer, Nemzzz, Skepta, and Headie attained top 40 singles, where are they here?
Therefore, it is between Central and Ghetts, and with his 2024 output being underwhelming, I have to go with Ghetto. Another great album, this legend deserves his shine for not only this record but all the other music from the last two decades.
Best New Artist
Kloe: Ezra Collective
A lot of great artists on here but a few key players are missing. Elmiene should be on there (although he was a runner-up for Rising Star). Arguably JADE should be on this one, as her breakthrough as a solo star was as seamless as I’ve seen in recent years. A personal favourite for me, Shaé Universe, should be on there too. I accept that many think she’s already established, but that ‘Love’s Letter‘ project broke through last year for a lot of R’n’B lovers who weren’t aware, myself included. I could also argue a case for Hope Tala and Nia Smith to be represented here as well.
My choice for best new artist is the ever-impressive Ezra Collective. The jazz quintet has won me over with their uplifting tunes.
Emily: The Last Dinner Party
The Last Dinner Party and Ezra Collective have received a multitude of nominations. This makes me believe one of the two is most likely to take this one home. If I had to decide I’d say it’ll be The Last Dinner Party. Their music is as interesting as their aesthetic which has nods to traditional and androgynous fashion. The London band has had an exceptional year with the track ‘Nothing Matters‘ being the standout hit from their debut album ‘Prelude to Ecstasy‘. The record is able to combine influences varying from indie pop to progressive rock with a level of craftsmanship that would be commendable from a band that is much more well-established. They would certainly be worthy of this award.
Tom: English Teacher
This award has a better idea of what is new I guess (although Ezra Collective being here having already charted before 2024 is whatever). Everyone here has made some enjoyable music, some even great, but I do have a lot of love for that English Teacher album. Their take on indie music blends the old with the new, and their identity and freshness make them a standout band in a scene that needs some fresh air.
International Artist of the Year
Kloe: Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar. Enough said. The only competition I feel he has is Chappell Roan here. I fully respect and appreciate her as an artist, but Kendrick’s dominance throughout the entirety of 2024, and into 2025 as he prepared for the Super Bowl, is unmatched. I’m a bit disheartened over the lack of Latin representation on this nomination list – Bad Bunny for example. I also think a K-Pop nod in the direction of ROSÉ, even for her explosive ‘APT‘ record alone, should’ve made the cut.
Emily: Tyler, The Creator
There are many names in this category that stand out to me as a potential winner. I would like to see Tyler, The Creator take this home after creating another brilliant album with ‘CHROMAKOPIA‘. He has demonstrated his continuation to tell a story through his music. Tyler has consistently shown his strengths in production, writing, rapping, and bringing in featured artists who only further his creative style.
Having said that this category is full of names who have proven themselves through a successful year. Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift continue to be huge names that easily have the reputation and popularity to receive this award. It really could be anyone’s this year.
Tom: Kendrick Lamar
We have a nice blend of artists here, showing some of the great music that has come from overseas. Billie and Chappell have given us some emotional, but catchy pop bangers. Meanwhile, Sabrina has brought the sass to the pop world, with Beyoncé continuing to show her talents as well as Tyler. But, one man has played his A game this year, and that is King Kenny. With the victory lap continuing with yesterday’s Super Bowl, why not keep it going another week longer?
International Group of the Year
Kloe: Future and Metro Boomin
No surprises here – my choice is Future and Metro Boomin. I think their LP ‘WE DON’T TRUST YOU’ will remain in hip-hop history as the infamous album that kicked off the Kendrick/Drake beef. However, that album overall is a solid project beyond this and in my opinion, deserves to be acknowledged. I also think their follow-up ‘WE STILL DON’T TRUST YOU‘ is a great effort from the prolific pair.
Emily: Linkin Park
There are a lot of names on this list that have had a very positive year. Linkin Park has proved they’re still one to watch out for with the addition of their new lead, Emily Armstrong. They’ve tackled their comeback with grace and respect for their former frontman Chester Bennington who passed away in 2017.
Amyl and The Sniffers have come a long way since their conception in 2019. The Australian band has been touring across the world as well as attending a wide selection of festivals to grow their fanbase. Their 2024 record ‘Cartoon Darkness‘ has only continued to increase their popularity.
Some nice picks here, with the 90s rave throwback of Confidence Man, a great team-up from Future and Metro, and my fave Fontaines D.C. album so far. However, to see Amyl and The Sniffers here is great. They have been making some top-notch pub rock and post-punk for a while now. The Aussie rockers mix humour with politics in an impactful way but also produce brilliant music. Also, Amy Taylor is one of the best lead vocalists right now.
Best International Song
Kloe: Teddy Swims – Lose Control
If I was a gambling girl, I’d say it’s probably going to be Noah Kahan’s ‘Stick Season‘. It was the most streamed song in the UK last year, so it only makes sense from a factual perspective. However, ‘Good Luck, Babe!‘ even won over reluctant pop fans (like myself) and I feel is the better track. If I could choose the winner here, I would give it over to Teddy Swims. ‘Lose Control‘ was an inescapable slice of heart-wrenching harmonies that took the radio waves by storm.
Emily: Billie Eilish – BIRDS OF A FEATHER
It seems as though this category is full of tracks that have gained immense popularity through social media usage. It’s been difficult to escape ‘Beautiful Things‘ by Benson Boone, with a clip of the track being frequently used in TikTok trends.
Some well-established artists such as Hozier and Eminem also have the power of social media to thank for their songs being heard by listeners who may not usually seek them out.
If I had to choose my winner based on personal preference I’d choose ‘BIRDS OF A FEATHER‘ by Billie Eilish. The pop powerhouse is undeniably an expert at creating catchy and thought-provoking tracks. She continues to create music that can be enjoyed by the masses whilst still containing the ingredients needed for a track that will stand the test of time.
Tom: Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe!
Where is ‘Not Like Us‘ you cowards? Outside of that, we have some really catchy and fun tracks here that have had big years on the charts. The standouts belong to Beyoncé, Billie, and Chappell, with the latter just about getting my vote. ‘Good Luck, Babe!‘ not only is an absolute pop anthem but stands out for its portrayal of someone who is out and proud, having to deal with someone who isn’t. This gives the lyrics more impact and purpose, making for not only pop brilliance but also pop importance.
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