The full shortlist for the Mercury Prize 2026 has been announced, with Paul McCartney, JADE, Nia Archives, Dave, Suede and the War Child “Help(2)” compilation among the 12 nominated albums, according to NME.
The winner will be revealed on October 22 at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, where the ceremony is returning after Sam Fender won last year for his album “People Watching.” This year’s eligible releases are albums by British or Irish artists that came out between August 30, 2025 and July 17, 2026.
Among the other shortlisted records are Florence + The Machine’s “Everybody Scream,” Olivia Dean’s “The Art Of Loving,” RAYE’s “THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE.” and Dave’s “The Boy Who Played the Harp.” Paul McCartney is on the shortlist for the first time, while Suede have earned their third nomination.
The list also includes Dove Ellis’ “Blizzard,” Knats’ “A Great Day In Newcastle,” Kojey Radical’s “Don’t Look Down” and “Antidepressants” by Suede. NME said the ceremony will feature live performances from many of the artists and will be broadcast across the BBC.
NME also noted several notable absences from the shortlist, including albums by Lily Allen, Harry Styles, Blood Orange, Yard Act, The Last Dinner Party and Boards Of Canada.
