The 2022 Mercury Prize award ceremony has been postponed due to the death of Queen Elizabeth II. A new date for the ceremony – which names the best album released in the year by a British or Irish act – has not yet been announced.
As The Guardian reports, the introductory portion of the event was already underway at the London Eventim Apollo when the news of the Queen’s passing broke. News of her declining health had seen red carpet events prior to the ceremony halted, while confirmation of her passing resulted in guests being asked to leave the venue.
Organisers of the 2022 Mercury Prize have announced the postponement of the ceremony:
“Tonight’s Mercury Prize event has been postponed at this time of great national sorrow,” a statement from Mercury Prize organisers read. “We know everyone involved in the Mercury Prize will understand.”
“Our thoughts and condolences are with The Royal Family at this very difficult time,” they added. “We will make an announcement regarding future arrangements as soon as we are able.”
Nominations for the 2022 edition of the award were announced in late July, with Harry Styles and Sam Fender named on the shortlist alongside Fergus McCreadie, Gwenno, Jessie Buckley & Bernard Butler, Wet Leg, Joy Crookes, Nova Twins, Little Simz and Self Esteem.
2022 Mercury Prize Nominees
- Fergus McCreadie – Forest Floor
- Gwenno – Tresor
- Harry Styles – Harry’s House
- Jessie Buckley & Bernard Butler – For All Our Days That Tear The Heart
- Joy Crookes – Skin
- Kojey Radical – Reason To Smile
- Little Simz – Sometimes I Might Be Introvert
- Nova Twins – Supernova
- Sam Fender – Seventeen Going Under
- Self Esteem – Prioritise Pleasure
- Wet Leg – Wet Leg
- Yard Act – The Overload
Further Reading
Sam Fender Announces 2022 Australian Headline Tour
Wet Leg Review – A Night Sydney Fans Won’t Take For Granted
Harry Styles Copenhagen Show Cancelled After Fatal Shooting Near Venue
