Clean Bandit are surprised the BRIT Awards are dominated by male artists.
Sam Smith has the most nominations this year with five, while Ed Sheeran and George Ezra both have nods in four categories.
No female artist is up for the Mastercard British Album of the Year prize, the shortlist comprised of Alt-J’s ‘This Is All Yours’, Ed’s second LP ‘X’, George’s ‘Wanted On Voyage’, Royal Blood’s self-titled effort and Sam’s acclaimed debut ‘In The Lonely Hour’, and the dance group are surprised at the lack of ladies.
Speaking at the nominations announcement in London on Thursday night (15.01.15), Clean Bandit member Grace Chatto said: "Clean Bandit member Grace Chatto said: "I was kind of surprised because there have been big female singers this year. I wonder why it is. I don’t think it’s because they’re men, is it?"
Her bandmate Milan Neil Amin-Smith added: "Well, I think it has been the year of the white man, which is quite depressing isn’t it?
"It seems a bit weird and a problem."
However, Grace thinks the nominations trend could be because of the cyclical nature of music and the time of female artists like Adele and Emeli Sande dominating has passed.
She mused: "Women have ruled for quite a while. It’s the men’s turn."
Clean Bandit are up for two BRITs, British Group and British Single for their smash hit ‘Rather Be’ which also featured Jess Glynne.
Despite their objections to the type of nominees up for accolades, the band – also comprised of Jack Patterson and Luke Patterson – are thrilled they have been recognised for their music.
Milan said: "It feels amazing to be nominated, we’re over the moon, I’ve just been bouncing about all day. I can’t stop giggling about it."
The BRIT Awards with MasterCard – hosted by Ant & Dec – take place at The O2 in London on February 25 and will feature performances from Taylor Swift, Paloma Faith and Ed as well as many others.
MasterCard is in its 17th year of sponsoring the BRIT Awards and as part of its 2015 BRITs campaign MasterCard is working with a variety of artists to organise Priceless Surprises, giving cardholders unique opportunities to get closer to the artists they love. Visit PricelessSurprises.co.uk for more information on how to get involved.
Clean Bandit: BRITs ruled by boys
