Pop sensation Charli XCX dominated the BRIT Awards nominations this year, reflecting her impactful rise in 2024. The news broke on Thursday, adding a touch of excitement to the anticipation for the upcoming ceremony on March 1st.
Charli XCX, whose album “Brat” became a cultural phenomenon last summer, got five nominations, including the most coveted “Artist of the Year” award. Her song “Guess,” which features equally lauded Billie Eilish, is also nominated for “Song of the Year.”
“Brat,” with its neon-washed aesthetic and beaming energy, caught the hearts of fans around the globe. Indeed, the album’s lime green cover art snagged the notice of an American politician of high stature. And in a widely unexpected move, it became a cheerful mascot for an election campaign, showing how pop culture can sometimes arrive at other stations in the most peculiar ways.
Among the nominees for “Album of the Year” was Charli XCX. Candidates in the best new jazz acts category include Ezra Collective, an outfit that takes much praise for their innovative jazz and scintillating performance, with an album called “Dance, No One’s Watching.” Then there is Dua Lipa, who represents her “Radical Optimism” project; known for her bold experimentation, as well as for the overall upbeat spirit it conveys. Another contender includes the indie rock Last Dinner Party with its acclaimed “Prelude to Ecstasy.”
Rounding out this esteemed category is The Cure, legends of the alternative rock scene. Their album “Songs of a Lost World,” their first in over a decade, not only topped the UK charts but also reignited conversations about their enduring influence on music.
The Cure, nominated for both “Group of the Year” and “Best Alternative/Rock Act,” continue to captivate audiences with their distinctive sound and enigmatic stage presence.
The most shocking nomination of the year may well be the legendary band that has not had a BRIT Award nomination since 1977: The Beatles, with the beautiful song “Now and Then” in contention for “Song of the Year.”
“Now and Then,” billed as the last Beatles song, was created through a unique and groundbreaking process. Utilizing artificial intelligence, the song incorporates the voice of the late John Lennon, a truly remarkable feat. The track also features contributions from surviving members Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, as well as the late George Harrison, creating a poignant and deeply moving tribute to the band’s enduring legacy.
For the first time this year, the 2025 BRIT Awards implemented a major shift: gender-neutral categories. The need for greater inclusion was recognized as organizers doubled up the number of nominees for “Artist of the Year” and “International Artist of the Year,” ensuring diversity and representation in the field.
International Artist of the Year “Belongs to a superlative category, which would be so dazzling with its list of global superstars-be crowned in the same. Of course, Beyoncé, perennial favorite, for her groundbreaking artistry, and powerful vocals. Taylor Swift, who still charms millions with her music.
Kendrick Lamar, a genius who never stops experimenting with the sounds of hip-hop, is also nominated. Rising star Sabrina Carpenter is also nominated, famous for her emotive voice and relatable lyrics. Of course, the one and only Billie Eilish is in the mix as well, this global phenomenon, known for her unique sound and style.
One award has already been given: the coveted “BRITs Rising Star” award. This year it goes to an up-and-coming talent named Myles Smith whose song “Stargazing” has already hinted at much better things to come. Smith also garnered three other nominations, securing his place as one of the music artists to watch for in the coming year.
The 2025 BRIT Awards will surely be an incredible night that celebrates the diverse and colorful landscape of British music. A star-studded lineup of nominees, groundbreaking innovations like the AI-powered Beatles song, and new efforts to make it more inclusive show the way forward for this year’s ceremony, aiming to be nothing short of exceptional.