Olivia Dean and RAYE among nominees for 2026 Mercury Prize

British and Irish artists Olivia Dean and RAYE have been named among the 12 nominees for the 2026 Mercury Prize, the annual award that recognises artistic achievement by musicians from the United Kingdom and Ireland. Dean’s album *The Art of Loving* and RAYE’s *THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE.* join a shortlist that includes Sir Paul McCartney’s *The Boys of Dungeon Lane*, Florence + The Machine’s *Everybody Scream*, Suede, Jade, Nia Archives and newcomer Dove Ellis.

The prize ceremony will be held on 22 October at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena. An independent panel of musicians, journalists and industry figures will select the winner, which carries a £25,000 cash award. The nominations also feature a charity compilation, HELP(2), released under the War Child collective.

The shortlist reflects a mix of established veterans and emerging talent, highlighting the diversity of the current UK‑Irish music scene.