As the music prizes strive for inclusivity, first-timers Self Esteem and Central Cee make the shortlist along with veterans Abba
Adele, Ed Sheeran, Little Simz and Dave have topped the largest-ever field of nominations at the Brit awards, as the ceremony moves beyond gendered categories.
Each artist earned four nominations, including in the new “artist of the year” category that has replaced “British male” and “British female”, and for album of the year. New awards have been added this year to highlight excellence in genres: alternative/rock – where Fender also appears – hip-hop/grime/rap, dance, and pop/R&B.
