One of the UK’s brightest new stars wins 2026 Mercury Prize

• RAYE has won the 2026 Mercury Prize for her jazz and soul-influenced second album, This Music May Contain Hope.
• The pop artist beat strong competition from shortlisted heavyweights including Sir Paul McCartney, Florence and the Machine, Suede, Dave, and JADE.
• RAYE’s victory marks a rare win for a pop album, as the prestigious award has historically favoured rock, indie, hip-hop, and electronic genres.
• The ceremony was hosted at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle for the second consecutive year since relocating from London.
• Several shortlisted acts performed live at the event, including RAYE, Olivia Dean, JADE, Suede, and Newcastle jazz band Knats.

IN FULL

RAYE wins 2026 Mercury Prize for album This Music May Contain Hope