James Bay has hit back at Lily Allen who blasted the Brit Awards.
The ‘Hold Back The River’ crooner’s comments follow those made by outspoken Lily, 30, who said the 2016 nominations were "blind to black talent" since grime artists like Skepta and Stormzy ignored and concluded that votes cast were "tactical".
The London-born singer also branded the ceremony one that British comedian Steve Coogan’s alter ego Alan Partridge – who is a right wing radio presenter with poor taste – "would approve of."
But James thinks the ‘Smile’ singer’s comments are irrelevant and told the Mirror newspaper: "I haven’t seen (American rock band) REO Speedwagon in the nominations , so I don’t know if it’s entirely Partridge. It’s varied nominations. It’s about music. I don’t know why she’s had to go down that route. I haven’t looked closely into all the nominations but it’s interesting she should bring that up."
James – who is nominated for Best Male Solo Artist and will perform at the ceremony on Wednesday(24.02.16) at the O2 Arena in London – added: "I can’t think of her last album, when she last released something."
Lily’s last album was ‘Sheezus’ which came out in 2014.
However, Brits boss Max Lousada responded to comments last week from singer Laura Mvula who described the ceremony as having a "diversity issue"
He said: "The intention has always been to have a show that reflects the runners and riders and a diverse crowd."
What’s more, he claims he spoke directly with artists who said the feeling was "letdown because certain musical genres weren’t represented – such as grime – rather than a racial balance".
James, 25, will perform at the music industry bash with Adele, Jess Glynne and Little Mix.
James Bay blasts Lily Allen over Brits comments
