Mercury Prize 2026 nominees announced

The Mercury Prize has unveiled the shortlist for its 2026 Album of the Year award, highlighting 12 records from across the UK and Ireland.:

• Dave – The Boy Who Played the Harp

• Dove Ellis – Blizzard

• Florence + the Machine – Everybody Scream

• JADE – That’s Showbiz Baby!

• Knats – A Great Day in Newcastle

• Kojey Radical – Don’t Look Down

• Nia Archives – Emotional Junglist

• Oliva Dean – The Art of Loving

• Paul McCartney – The Boys From Dungeon Lane

• RAYE – This Music May Contain Hope

• Suede – Antidepressants

• War Child / Various Artists – HELP(2)

Among this year's most notable milestones is Paul McCartney, who earns his first-ever Mercury Prize nomination despite the award's three-decade history. Also making their debut on the prestigious shortlist are Dove Ellis, whose work also appears on HELP2, along with JADE, Knats, and Olivia Dean, marking a breakthrough moment for each artist.

The winner of the 2026 Mercury Prize will be announced on October 22 during a ceremony at Newcastle's Utilita Arena.