Mercury Prize Returns for 2023 with Interesting List of Nominees
One of the most coveted prizes on the music calendar is back, with the Mercury Prize announcing its contenders for 2023. Hoping to follow in the footsteps of Little Simz, RAYE will be seen as a favourite following the success of ‘My 21st Century Blues‘. Other female solo artists nominated for the award are Olivia Dean, Shygirl, and Jessie Ware.
Another big contender will be U.K. rapper Loyle Carner, with J Hus and Young Fathers also nominated from that scene. Representing jazz is Ezra Collective, Fred again.. brings some electronic music to the awards, while Lankum carries the folk vibes. Completing the list are Arctic Monkeys and Jockstrap.
This will be the Arctic Monkeys’ 5th nomination, having won back in 2006 with their debut album, while J Hus, Jessie Ware, and Loyle Carner are nominated for a second time. Meanwhile, Young Fathers will be looking to follow up their win in 2014 with ‘DEAD‘.
While there is a varied list of artists, notably, genres like R’n’B and gospel, alongside sub-genres from across dance music and rock are missing. Although there is plenty of opportunities for rap and pop, other musical varieties are under-represented.
Even though the list has its faults, it will be exciting to see who wins on the 7th of September.
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