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Paul McCartney, Olivia Dean and Raye Make Mercury Prize Shortlist
Paul McCartney has received his first Mercury Prize nomination, joining Olivia Dean, Raye and nine other acts on the 2026 shortlist for outstanding British albums. The nomination is notable because it is McCartney’s first recognition from the long-running UK award, while the shortlist also spans pop, rap, jazz, rock and drum and bass.
The 12 shortlisted albums include releases by Dave, Florence + the Machine, Jade, Knats, Kojey Radical, Nia Archives, Suede, Dove Ellis and the War Child charity compilation “Help(2)”. A 12-member jury selected the nominees, and the winner will be announced in Newcastle on 22 October, receiving £25,000; previous winners Dave and Suede won in 2019 and 1993 respectively.
In short
- McCartney earns his first Mercury Prize nomination.
- Olivia Dean and Raye are also shortlisted.
- Winner receives £25,000 in October.
Explained simply
The Mercury Prize is one of Britain's most prestigious annual music awards, given to outstanding British albums. It has been running for several decades and is widely recognised as a significant marker of musical quality and artistic achievement across all genres.
The prize is celebrated for recognising music across a wide spectrum of styles, from pop and rap to jazz, rock and experimental music. This year's shortlist includes Paul McCartney's first ever Mercury Prize nomination, despite his long and influential career in music.
The winner receives £25,000 and will be announced in Newcastle on 22 October. Previous winners such as Dave and Suede demonstrate how the prize has recognised both contemporary and enduring musical talent.
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