From rising voices to global influence, the night captured British pop in transition

Held on February 28 at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, the 2026 Brit Awards spotlighted a new wave of British pop while reaffirming the ceremony’s growing global reach. The night unmistakably belonged to Olivia Dean, who emerged as its defining figure. With four major trophies, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for “The Art of Loving,” she solidified her position as one of the UK’s most vital and resonant voices today.

Elsewhere, Breakthrough Artist winner Lola Young marked a pivotal moment, signaling a generational shift toward raw, emotionally direct songwriting and underscoring her rapid rise in the UK music scene. Acclaimed North London alternative rock band Wolf Alice reinforced their staying power with a Group of the Year win in a rapidly evolving musical landscape.

Meanwhile, the international categories further highlighted how borderless contemporary pop has become. Rosalía took home International Artist of the Year, while Rosé and Bruno Mars’ 2025 viral hit “APT.” won International Song of the Year. Together, those wins reflected the cross-cultural collaborations shaping global charts, where influence moves freely across markets and languages.

Beyond the headline names, the ceremony also honoured the creative forces behind the scenes, recognizing excellence in songwriting, production and long-term cultural contribution. Rather than centering on a single sweeping narrative, the 2026 Brit Awards felt like a moment of transition, balancing emerging talent, established acts and global influence, all pointing toward the next chapter of British music. Below is the full list of winners at the 2026 Brit Awards.

Artist of the Year: Olivia Dean

Group of the Year: Wolf Alice

Album of the Year: Olivia Dean – “The Art of Loving”

Song of the Year: Sam Fender (with Olivia Dean) – “Rein Me In”

International Artist of the Year: Rosalía

International Group of the Year: Geese

International Song of the Year: Rosé & Bruno Mars – “APT.”

Breakthrough Artist: Lola Young

Critics’ Choice: Jacob Alon

Best Alternative/Rock Act: Sam Fender

Best Pop Act: Olivia Dean

Best Hip-Hop/Rap/Grime Act: Dave

Best R&B Act: Sault

Best Dance Act: Fred Again, Skepta, PlaqueBoyMax

Producer of the Year: PinkPantheress

Songwriter of the Year: Noel Gallagher

Outstanding Contribution to Music: Mark Ronson

Lifetime Achievement: Ozzy Osbourne

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