The 2023 Mercury Prize shortlist has been announced and includes several London-based musicians. The accolade, which celebrates the best albums of the year, has praised Fred Again and RAYE in its nominations.
On Thursday (July 27), the 2023 Mercury Prize shortlist was confirmed, and while the nominated list featured big names, including the Arctic Monkeys, many Londoners also made the shortlist.
Fred Again, who was also nominated for three BRIT Awards at the start of the year, and Raye, whose track Escapism topped the UK charts last year, are just a few of the London artists shortlisted for the 2023 Mercury Prize.
Other nominees include rappers Loyle Carner and J Hus, who both received their second nominations. The two were previously shortlisted for the 2017 Mercury Prize.
We break down what Londoners have been shortlisted for this year’s Mercury Prize.
1. Fred Again
The South London artist hails from Balham.
2. Olivia Dean
The singer hails from Walthamstow.
3. Shygirl
The artist grew up in southeast London, having lived in a few different places, including Catford, Lewisham and Blackheath.
4. Ezra Collective
The British jazz quintet all grew up in the capital and have since made a name for themselves in the London jazz scene.