Sam Fender, Rosalía and Jacob Alon Triumph at Ivor Novello Awards
Sam Fender, Rosalía, and Jacob Allen were among the prominent winners at this year's Ivor Novello Awards, where Sir Elton John was honoured with a special accolade.
Geordie singer Fender received a prestigious prize, with officials noting he has become one of "the defining voices in modern British music and storytelling."
Catalan superstar Rosalía was awarded International Songwriter of the Year, while Scottish alt-folk singer Jacob Alon prevailed over competition from Self Esteem and Wolf Alice to win Best Song Musically and Lyrically for their track "Don't Fall Asleep."
Sir Elton John was also recognised as he was named the Ivors Academy's first-ever president.
The Ivor Novello Awards hold significant esteem within the UK music industry due to their focus on the craft of songwriting.
Fender, known for albums such as People Watching and Seventeen Going Under, was commended by the Academy for his "sharp social commentary and emotionally honest songwriting."
Catalan artist Rosalía received a newly introduced award, International Songwriter of the Year, following her breakthrough with the genre-blending, neo-classical, and multilingual album Lux.
The Ivors Academy stated she had "pushed the boundaries of global songwriting and experimental pop."
As she accepted the award on stage at London's Grosvenor House, she advocated for greater diversity in songwriting voices.
"There are countless outstanding writers which will not be recognised as they deserve because they aren't middle-class white Europeans, whose upbringing has been sufficiently stable for them to turn a hint of talent into a successful career."
Lily Allen, who made a celebrated return last year with her revealing breakup record West End Girl, received the Outstanding Song Collection award.
The Academy noted she had "built one of the most distinctive catalogues in British music across the last two decades" with tracks like "Smile," "LDN," and "Madeline," which have had "a lasting impact on British pop culture and songwriting."
Jacob Alon won two awards: Rising Star and Best Song Musically and Lyrically for "Don't Fall Asleep." Additionally, 4 Non Blondes singer and guitarist Linda Perry was honoured with the Special International Award.
The Music Icon Award was presented to DJ and producer Calvin Harris for "helping shape the sound of contemporary dance and pop over the last two decades."
Harris, known for collaborations with artists such as Dua Lipa and Rihanna, was described as one of the most "impactful producers and songwriters of his generation."
The Scottish DJ and songwriter humorously reflected on his early career, joking that it began by adding a now-colleague as a friend on MySpace.
He then expressed gratitude to his wife, presenter Vick Hope, simply for "marrying me."
'Don't Let People Take It Away From You, Especially AI'
In a special moment, Lola Young presented Sir Elton John with an honour recognising his "outstanding work championing songwriters, composers, and creativity across the music industry."
In his new role as the Ivors Academy's first president, Sir Elton will represent its "global community of songwriters and composers, championing the value of music creation and advocating for the rights and recognition of music creators worldwide."
Sir Elton John expressed pride in UK music, stating:
"We're an amazing country that produces great songwriting."
A recurring theme throughout the evening was the discussion of artificial intelligence's role in music and songwriting.
Among those addressing this was Sir Elton, who told the audience:
"No matter what kind of music you write, it's yours, you own it... It came from your soul, it means a hell of a lot to you.
And don't let people take it away from you, especially AI."
George Michael Tribute
In 2004, Sir Elton was awarded a fellowship from the Ivors Academy. On Thursday, the late George Michael, his former collaborator, was posthumously honoured with the same fellowship 10 years after his death.
The Wham! and solo pop star, who died in 2016 at age 53, joined other distinguished fellowship recipients including Bruce Springsteen and U2, the latter honoured at last year's ceremony.
The fellowship is the songwriting academy's highest accolade, recognising "excellence and impact in the art and craft of music creation."
His Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley accepted the award on Michael's behalf, stating:
"George would have been profoundly moved to be recognised in this way."
"It was Michael's songwriting that was the window to his soul, and it was the skill and discipline that he felt distinguished him more than anything else."
Radiohead's lead singer Thom Yorke was also awarded the Fellowship.
Surprise guest Harry Styles presented the award to Yorke, calling it "a terrifying honour."
Styles elicited laughter from the audience with a playful confession about Yorke's track "Talk Show Host," revealing:
"I lost my virginity to the track... before quickly clarifying: 'Well, the intro to Talk Show Host.'"
Visionary Award and Other Honours
UK rapper and actor Kano received the Visionary Award, recognising his "lasting impact on British music and culture." The award was presented by his Chapter 16 collaborator and Top Boy co-star Dave.
The Ivors highlighted Kano as "one of the UK's most influential artists, helping shape the legacy of grime through acclaimed albums including Made in the Manor and Hoodies All Summer."
In his acceptance speech, Kano thanked his mother:
"For babysitting right now."
He added:
"Anyway, thank you Ivors and to everyone in the room. Keep the craft going. Respect to the craft."
The Ivor Novello Winners in Full
International Songwriter of the Year
Best Song Musically and Lyrically
