Frank Rondel
The Brit Awards 2026 ceremony took place on 28 February at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, marking the first time in the event’s history that it was held outside London, reports customreceipt.com. The annual music awards brought together leading figures from the British and international music industry for an evening of performances and prize announcements.
Olivia Dean emerged as the central figure of the night, collecting multiple major awards. She was named Artist of the Year and Best Pop Act, while her record “The Art of Loving” secured the Album of the Year title. Her collaboration with Sam Fender, “Rein Me In,” won Song of the Year. The track is currently leading the UK singles chart. During the ceremony, Dean also performed her song “Man I Need” live on stage.
The International Artist of the Year award went to Rosalia. Wolf Alice received the Group of the Year prize, while Geese were named International Group of the Year. The International Song of the Year award was presented to Bruno Mars and ROSÉ for their hit “APT.” The recognition marked the first time a K-pop artist has received a Brit Award.
Lola Young, who entered the ceremony with five nominations, was named Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Producer of the Year was awarded to PinkPantheress, and Songwriter of the Year went to Noel Gallagher. Mark Ronson received the Outstanding Contribution to Music award and performed a medley of his hits during the show, joined on stage by his frequent collaborator Dua Lipa.
The ceremony opened with a large-scale performance by Harry Styles, who delivered the first live rendition of his chart-topping single “Aperture.” The performance featured a full choir of backing vocalists and more than a dozen male dancers. Styles appeared in black-and-white striped trousers, a striped shirt, a tie and ballet flats with bows, all designed by Chanel, according to People.
Ozzy Osbourne was honored posthumously with a Lifetime Achievement award. The tribute was introduced in a recorded video message by Dolly Parton, and the award was accepted by his widow, Sharon Osbourne.
Additional live performances during the evening included appearances by Alex Warren, RAYE and sombr. Audiences also saw a performance by KPop Demon Hunters’ HUNTR/X, featuring EJAE, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, who performed the track “Golden.”
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