Mercury Prize shortlist launch in Newcastle as 'music city' reputation grows on national stage

With two North East names on Mercury Prize shortlist, special event sets tone for upcoming awards night

Established in 1992, the prestigious award honours the best album released by a British or Irish artist each year. For the 2026 nominees, RAYE, Nia Archives and Florence + The Machine will face off, while music legend Paul McCartney bags his first ever nomination at the tender age of 84.

Paul McCartney has received his first-ever nomination for the U.K.’s prestigious Mercury Prize alongside Olivia Dean, Raye and more. The shortlist for the prize, which recognizes outstanding British albums, was unveiled on Thursday. Nominees include McCartney for “The Boys of Dungeon Lane”; Dean for “The Art of Loving”

Archives’ second Mercury Prize nomination comes just weeks after she released her second album, Emotional Junglist.

Archives’ second Mercury Prize nomination comes just weeks after she released her second album, Emotional Junglist.

Mercury Prize shortlist: Paul McCartney beats Mick Jagger to first nomination  The Times