The BRITs 2016 Critics’ Choice Award shortlist has been unveiled.
This year sees London-based songstress Izzy Bizu, piano maestro Frances and soul singer Jack Garratt nominated for the award passed down by ‘Hold Back The River’ hitmaker James Bay who won last year.
Sharing her delight of being selected, Izzy said: "I’m so honoured to be nominated for the BRITs Critics’ Choice Award this year, following in the footsteps of amazingly talented artists like Adele, Emeli Sande and James Bay so thank you! I grew up watching the BRITs on the TV at home so it’s pretty exciting to be a part of it!"
And Frances, 22, says it’s a "huge honour" to be nominated for an award that was once given to so many of her "idols".
She commented: "It’s such a huge honour to be nominated for the Critics’ Choice award. I’ve followed the BRITs my whole life, but never thought I’d be lucky enough to be nominated…It’s amazing to be a part of something that has included so many of my idols and musical inspirations. An amazing feeling. Thank you."’
While Jack was thrilled just to be nominated alongside some "incredible new acts".
He said: "It’s amazing to be nominated for the BRITs Critics’ Choice Award 2016. It’s such a significant award that highlights the importance of new music, so it’s a genuine honour to have been nominated alongside some other incredible new acts from the UK."
The prestigious accolade – which is chosen by the UK’s leading music press – is awarded to artists who are gearing up to release a debut album in 2016.
The lucky winner will handed a unique gong created by music and fashion legend Pam Hogg at the music extravaganza held at London’s O2 Arena on 27 November 2015.
Previous winners including Adele, Sam Smith, Florence + The Machine and Ellie Goulding who have all gone on to achieve global success.
Adele – who won in 2008 – is set to break UK chart history with her third LP ’25’ in line to be the UK’s fastest-selling album ever.
BRITs Critics’ Choice Award 2016 nominees revealed
