News / Feb 24, 2026

# BRIT Awards 2026: A Look at the Artists Shaping This Year’s Nominations

## As anticipation builds ahead of the BRIT Awards, this year’s nominations highlight a wide-ranging group of artists who have defined the past year in British and international music.

Spanning pop, rock, hip-hop, and alternative, the shortlist reflects a moment of transition... where established names sit alongside rapidly rising talent. One of the early talking points is **Jacob Alon**, who has been announced as the recipient of the **Critics’ Choice Award**, placing him firmly in the spotlight ahead of the ceremony.

_(Pictured: Critic's Choice Award Winner, Jacob Alon)_

International recognition is also a key theme this year. American indie rock band **Geese** are nominated for **International Group of the Year**, while Spanish artist **Rosalía** is in contention for **International Artist of the Year**, reflecting her continued global influence.

Among the UK’s most prominent nominees, **Olivia Dean** stands out with nominations for **Artist of the Year**, **Album of the Year, Best Pop Act,** and **Song of the Year**. **Dave** is also widely represented, shortlisted for **Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Artist, Best Alternative/Rock Act,** and **Best Pop Act.**

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_(Pictured: Dave)_

Rock remains a strong presence, with **Sam Fender** nominated across major categories including **Artist, Album** and **Song of the Year,** alongside **Best Alternative/Rock Act**. Breakthrough artist **Lola Young** continues her upward trajectory with nominations spanning **Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Artist, Song of the Year,** and both **Alternative/Rock and Pop Act categories**.

In hip-hop and alternative spaces, **Loyle Carner** is shortlisted for **Best Hip-Hop/Rap/Grime Act,** while **Self Esteem** is nominated for **Artist of the Year.** Indie bands **Wet Leg** and **Wolf Alice** both feature in **Group of the Year** and **Best Alternative/Rock Act,** with Wolf Alice also recognised in the **Mastercard Album of the Year** category.

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_(Pictured: Wolf Alice)_

With the ceremony still to come, the nominations point to a year defined by stylistic crossover, strong songwriting, and artists pushing beyond traditional genre boundaries.