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DAV-EL: Emotional Electronic Music & Storytelling

DAV-EL: Emotional Electronic Music & Storytelling

Introducing DAV-EL

DAV-EL is an electronic music artist whose work seamlessly weaves melodic electronic production with deeply emotional, cinematic storytelling. Embarking on a dedicated professional musical journey at 43, DAV-EL transforms lifelong passion, real-life experiences, vulnerability, and human connection into atmospheric, timeless soundscapes.

Rooted in a love for electronic music, Chill House, Tropical House, and Pop, DAV-EL creates songs designed to resonate on a personal level—reviving memories, inspiring hope, and uniting listeners across the globe. Driven by a desire to uplift others, DAV-EL views music not merely as sound, but as an art form built on belief, dedication, and the power of visualizing one’s dreams.

Discover more of DAV-EL in this exclusive interview with 1 In Music.

DAV-EL: Sound Without Limits.

1 In Music: How did the musical story of “DAV-EL” start?

DAV-EL [DE]: DAV-EL was born from a lifelong dream. Today, at 43, I have always loved writing, composing, and creating music. Now, I have the opportunity to take a more professional approach and share it with the world. It is something I truly love and that deeply excites me.

1 In Music: What do you think is unique about you and your music?

DE: DAV-EL combines melodic electronic production with deeply emotional storytelling, creating songs that connect on a personal level while remaining inspiring and accessible.

The making of the DAV-EL Sound

1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?

DE: My sound is inspired by artists who combine emotion with modern electronic production, but my greatest influence comes from real life. Personal experiences, love, hope, vulnerability, and human connection shape every song I create. My goal is to build a sound that feels timeless while remaining fresh and cinematic.

1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?

DE: I’ve always had a deep connection with music, but electronic music showed me that emotions could be expressed without limits. I realized I wanted to pursue this path when I understood that a single melody could revive memories, inspire hope, and connect thousands of people who had never met before. That’s the kind of impact I want my music to have.

1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?

I enjoy listening to electronic music, Chill House, Tropical House, and some Pop tracks. I respect and enjoy all genres, but those are what I listen to the most.

1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?

DE: For me, everything is very recent—this is just the beginning of something more professional. I’ve been working with the greatest satisfaction and desire for this to succeed. The goal is always to achieve a professional, respectful body of work that reflects the dedication of myself and the team helping to deliver great results.

Taking Inspiration from DAV-EL

1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?

DE: I don’t like to give personal opinions about anyone regarding the value people or the press give them. I believe that when you create music and the result is satisfying to yourself, you should feel at peace. Time proves good artists right.

1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?

DE: When I’m not making music, I focus mainly on working on my personal projects. Right now, I don’t make a living from music, so today I aim to give my best to my personal projects while pouring my passion into music as an additional part of my life.

1 In Music: Success to you is…?

DE: To inspire people.

1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?

DE: That when you visualize your dreams and fight for them, they come true. That the road is always tough, but it’s part of the landscape. If I could tell something to someone just starting out, I would tell them to believe. To dream. To dare to make their dream a reality.

What is next for DAV-EL and those who want to support you?

DAV-EL Lost In Your Love Cover1 In Music: Your new single, Lost In Your Love, is doing amazing on Spotify. It sounds great and we love it at 1 In Music (what vocals!) Well done!

We are looking forward to any upcoming projects? So, anything on the horizon?

DE: Yes. I am currently working on new tracks, with several already finished that will be released over the coming days. However, I am always searching for inspiration and the messages I want to convey through my music.

1 In Music: Where do we diret our audience interested in finding your music?

You can follow me:

 

Discover 10 Underrated Musicians for Study Focus and Stress Relief

Discover 10 Underrated Musicians for Study Focus and Stress Relief

Discover 10 Underrated Musicians for Study Focus, Stress Relief: Why now?

As students prepare for university, refresh their study spaces, and upgrade their study tech for the new academic term, music remains the ultimate companion for focus, relaxation, and inspiration. With Amazon’s Back to School deals starting on 17th August—offering substantial savings on study tech, noise-cancelling headphones, desk speakers, and university setup essentials—now is the ideal time for music lovers to build a soundtrack of under-the-radar talent.

Additionally, Bandcamp Friday returns on 7th August (and every month or so after that), where Bandcamp waives its revenue share for 24 hours to pass 100% of proceeds directly to artists. Combining Amazon’s tech discounts with direct artist support on Bandcamp gives listeners the perfect opportunity to curate their physical and digital music collections while making significant savings.

Here is a list of 10 underrated musicians for study focus and stress relief with each their unique listening benefit.

10 Underrated Musicians for study focus, ultimate ambient & stress relief soundscapes

  1. Ichiko Aoba is a Japanese acoustic folk singer whose delicate nylon-string guitar and whispering vocals create an atmosphere of pure serenity, perfect for unwinding after lectures. (Ichiko Aoba on Bandcamp | Ichiko Aoba on Amazon
  2. Nala Sinephro is a Caribbean-Belgian harpist and synthesist whose spiritual ambient-jazz albums serve as ideal focus soundtracks for revision. (Search on [Nala Sinephro on Bandcamp | Nala Sinephro on Amazon
  3. Hania Rani is a Polish pianist and composer who weaves delicate upright piano melodies with subtle electronic atmospherics. Hania Rani on Bandcamp | Hania Rani on Amazon
  4. Laraaji is an ambient pioneer and zither master whose celestial, shimmering compositions are engineered for meditation and deep sleep. Laraaji on Bandcamp | Laraaji on Amazon
  5. Erland Cooper – Scottish composer who samples the wind, birdsong, and seas of the Orkney Islands to craft tranquil modern-classical pieces. Erland Cooper on Bandcamp | Erland Cooper on Amazon
  6. Caterina Barbieri – Italian modular synthesist exploring repetitive sonic patterns designed to sharpen cognitive focus and mental clarity. Caterina Barbieri on BandcampCaterina Barbieri on Amazon
  7. The appropriately-named Green-House are a non-binary electronic artist creating gentle, plant-inspired ambient tunes (plant music) crafted in a way that fosters calm study environments. Green-House on Bandcamp | Green-House on Amazon
  8. Sarah Davachi is a minimalist Canadian composer using vintage organs and electroacoustic processing to construct slow, meditative tonal studies. Sarah Davachi on Bandcamp | Sarah Davachi on Amazon
  9. Mdou Moctar is a hypnotic Tuareg guitarist from Niger delivering blistering, rhythmic desert blues that will captivate any international music connoisseur. Mdou Moctar on Bandcamp | Mdou Moctar on Amazon
  10. Arooj Aftab is a Pakistani vocalist blending classical Urdu poetry with subtle jazz instrumentation and neo-Sufi drone textures for deep relaxation. Arooj Aftab on Bandcamp | Arooj Aftab on Amazon
a Maria: Exclusive interview with the Sexy Pop songstress

a Maria: Exclusive interview with the Sexy Pop songstress

Who is a Maria?

a Maria in an artistic nutshell

a MariaMoscow-born independent artist a Maria (Maria Belyanchikova) is a multifaceted creator who seamlessly bridges the worlds of music and visual art. Blending catchy melodies, raw emotion, and bold confidence into her signature “Sexy Pop” sound, she crafts releases that inspire listeners to embrace their true individuality. Beyond her songwriting, she is an accomplished abstract painter and disciplined performer who infuses every aspect of her work with a striking visual identity. Recently partnered with Robot Distro by Golden Robot Records, she continues to expand her reach internationally while preparing for her upcoming album, Provocative. Her discipline and creative goals are anchored in staying authentic to her creative vision and crafting art that outlives her. As she says,

Real success is staying true to your vision, continuing to grow as an artist, and never losing the courage to create.

More than a bio

a Maria (real name Maria Belyanchikova) was born on September 12, 1986, in Moscow, Russia. She studied piano and clarinet at music school and holds degrees in economics, finance, management, and psychology, including an MBA and postgraduate studies. She began recording and performing as an independent artist seven years ago, describing her music as Sexy Pop. a Maria is in a long-term life partnership and has a 14-year-old daughter.

However when you look at her art, it becomes immediately obvious that a Maria is more still than her bio. 1 In Music meets the Sexy Pop music artist and all around creative artist a Maria for some inspirational words, and a look through the creative pallette that quenches her audience’s soul. 1 In Music was excited to emeet with this exceptional talent for an exclusive interview.

1 In Music: What is unique about you and your music?

a Maria: What makes me unique is that I don’t separate music from the rest of my creativity. I’m not only a singer and songwriter but also a visual artist, so every release is part of a bigger artistic vision. I describe my style as Sexy Pop—music that combines catchy melodies, confidence, emotion, and a touch of provocation. I write from personal experiences, turning challenges into songs that inspire people to be authentic, embrace their individuality, and express themselves without fear.

a Maria and Music

1 In Music: What or who shaped your music and who supports you?

a MariaMany people have shaped my journey, but my biggest inspiration comes from life itself. My husband has always believed in me and supports my dreams. My daughter is another source of motivation, and I’m grateful to have many wonderful friends who encourage me along the way. But at the end of the day, I’ve learned that the most important support comes from within. I support myself—me, myself, and I. Believing in yourself is what keeps you moving forward, even when the road gets difficult.

The relationship between this creative soul and music is as simple as these words from the Sexy Pop songstress:

“Music is who I am”
a Maria

Let us find out more from a Maria herself as 1 In Music ask her a few carefully crafted questions to uncover the artist behind the name.

1 In Music: When did you realise you were going to make music professionally?

a Maria [a M]: I realized I could pursue music professionally several years ago when I signed a distribution contract with Robot Distro by Golden Robot Records. Their belief in my music gave me the confidence to take my career seriously. It was a turning point that showed me my work could reach an international audience and encouraged me to continue growing as an independent artist.

1 In Music: What type of music do you listen to?

a M: I mostly listen to English-language pop music, as it inspires both my songwriting and my artistic vision. I also enjoy rock from time to time, especially songs with strong melodies, powerful vocals, and authentic emotion. I believe listening to different styles helps me grow as an artist while staying true to my own sound.

1 In Music: Who, to you, is the most undervalued music artist?

a M: It’s difficult to name just one artist because there are so many talented independent musicians who deserve more attention. I admire artists who stay true to themselves and create music from the heart, even without mainstream recognition. I believe some of today’s rising stars are still waiting to be discovered.

a Maria’s Creative and Performing Journey

1 In Music: How do you prepare for your performances?

a Maria Singer Songwriter Abstract Paintera Maria [a M]: I take preparing for a performance very seriously. A few days before a show, I eat much less to feel light and fully focused on stage. I carefully plan every stage outfit well in advance because I believe the visual image is just as important as the music. I rehearse extensively, and I even practice singing while standing on a vibration platform. It helps me build stamina and breath control so I can sing confidently while moving around the stage. Every performance is the result of discipline, careful preparation, and passion.

1 In Music: What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?

a M: When I’m not making music, I spend most of my time painting. Creating visual art is another way for me to express emotions and ideas that can’t always be put into words. I work in an abstract style, and painting gives me the same sense of freedom and creativity that I find in music. For me, both art forms are deeply connected—they inspire and complement each other.

1 In Music: Success to you is…?

a M: To me, success in music is not about fame or numbers—it’s about creating something that outlives you. If even one song can truly touch someone’s heart, help them through a difficult time, or inspire them to believe in themselves, then I consider that a success.

Real success is staying true to your vision, continuing to grow as an artist, and never losing the courage to create.

1 In Music: What do you wish you were told when you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?

a M: I wish someone had told me how difficult this journey would be. That it wouldn’t always be rewarding, profitable, or satisfying, and that building a career in music takes years of patience, resilience, and hard work. Sometimes it can feel like you’re giving everything and getting very little in return. It takes a long time before you realize you’ve actually achieved something. And if I’m being completely honest, there were moments when I wish someone had simply said, “Don’t go down this road.” But looking back, I know I wouldn’t have listened—because music is who I am.

What is next for a Maria?a Maria

1 In Music: Any upcoming projects?

a Maria [a M]: I’m currently working on my upcoming album, Provocative. Most of the songs are already finished, and we’re in the final stages of preparing the release. The album reflects my artistic vision, combining confidence, emotion, and bold storytelling through my Sexy Pop sound. I’m excited to share this new chapter with my listeners and can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve created.

1 In Music: Thank you so much for this interview.
Can you leave us with a few places to find a Maria’s music please?

a M:

a Maria on iTunes
a Maria on Spotify
a Maria on YouTube

a Maria official website: aMaria.fun

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees: Fcukers, Robyn…

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees: Fcukers, Robyn…

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – First wave

The Association of Independent Music (AIM) has officially unveiled the first wave of nominees for the Independent Music Awards 2026, highlighting a year of phenomenal creative output, cross-genre innovation, and entrepreneurial resilience within the UK and global independent music sectors.

New York-based electronic group Fcukers lead the 2026 field with three major nominations, closely followed by iconic pop pioneer Robyn. On the label front, London-based powerhouse Young dominates the landscape with five nominations, followed closely by XL Recordings and Ninja Tune with four apiece.

Scheduled to take place on 22 September 2026 at the historic Roundhouse in London, the ceremony marks a major milestone for AIM. Following its landmark 15th anniversary last year, the event debuts a completely refreshed visual identity and modernized structure designed to match the rapid evolution of the contemporary music landscape.

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Fcukers and Robyn Top the Artist Shortlists

Independent Music Awards 2026 NomineesThe nominations reflect an incredibly strong year for boundary-pushing electronic and pop music. Fcukers have converted their breakthrough momentum into nominations for Best Independent Album, Best Independent Track, and Independent Breakthrough. Their acclaimed debut album Ö, released via Ninja Tune, has cemented the trio as one of the most critical disruptive forces in electronic music this year.

Pop visionary Robyn makes a triumphant return to the awards circuit with her first studio album in eight years, Sexistential. The record earned nods for Best Independent Album and Best Independent Track (for the single “Dopamine”). Additionally, avant-garde producer Arca received a nomination in the Best Independent Remix category for her radical reinterpretation of the album’s title track.

A diverse cohort of artists secured double nominations across the board:

  • Jalen Ngonda: The retro-soul sensation representing Daptone Records.
  • Jim Legxacy: The genre-fluid London rapper and producer signed to XL Recordings.
  • Jorja Smith: The celebrated R&B star releasing via her independent imprint FAMM.
  • Nova Twins: The explosive alternative rock duo on Marshall Records.
  • Romy: The electronic dance-pop solo artist representing Young.
  • Tiana Major9: The progressive alternative R&B vocalist signed to +1 Records.

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Label Triumphs and Community Impact

The 2026 nominations heavily reinforce the immense market impact of independent record labels. Young leads the charge with five nominations across multiple categories. XL Recordings and Ninja Tune follow closely with four nominations each, while FAMM and Marshall Records maintain a strong presence with three nominations a piece.

The shortlists also feature major global players and emerging alternative icons, including Mitski (Dead Oceans), Belfast electronic duo BICEP (Ninja Tune), genre-defying bassist Thundercat (Brainfeeder), avant-garde outfit Fat Dog (Domino), and experimental rock group Geese (Partisan Records).

According to AIM Chief Executive Officer Gee Davy, the 2026 shortlists prove that the independent sector remains the true engine room for authenticity and musical innovation. Davy noted that the newly updated look and feel of the awards reflect a community that refuses to stand still, consistently pushing commercial and artistic boundaries.

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Public Voting Opens for Live Acts and Record Stores

Independent Music Awards 2026 NomineesIn tandem with the main category announcements, AIM has officially opened public voting for two critical pillars of the independent music ecosystem:

  • Best Live Performer: Celebrating the most impactful on-stage and live-streamed acts over the past 12 months. The final shortlist and eventual winner will be determined entirely by music fans from a longlist submitted by artist teams.
  • Best Independent Record Store: Honoring the physical retailers, community hubs, and cultural spaces that drive grassroots music discovery and consistently support independent label releases.

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees: The Full List

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Best Independent Track

  • DEBBY FRIDAY – Bet On Me (Sub Pop Records)
  • Fcukers – L.U.C.K.Y (Ninja Tune)
  • Genesis Owusu – Stampede (Ourness)
  • Jalen Ngonda – Doctrine of Love (Daptone Records)
  • Jim Legxacy – 3x (XL Recordings)
  • Jorja Smith – The Way I Love You (FAMM)
  • Nova Twins – Piranha (Marshall Records)
  • Robyn – Dopamine (Young / Konichiwa)
  • Romy – Love Who You Love (Young)
  • Tiana Major9 – Desire (+1 Records)

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Best Independent Album

  • BICEP – TAKKUUK (Original Soundtrack) (Ninja Tune / EarthSonic)
  • Blawan – SickElixir (XL Recordings)
  • Fcukers – Ö (Ninja Tune)
  • Geese – Getting Killed (Partisan Records)
  • Mitski – Nothing’s About to Happen to Me (Dead Oceans)
  • Nova Twins – Parasites & Butterflies (Marshall Records)
  • Prostitute – Attempted Martyr (Mute)
  • Robyn – Sexistential (Young / Konichiwa)
  • SCALER – Endlessly (Black Acre)
  • Thundercat – Distracted (Brainfeeder)

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Independent Breakthrough

  • Fat Dog (Domino Recording Co.)
  • Fcukers (Ninja Tune)
  • Jalen Ngonda (Daptone Records)
  • Tiana Major9 (+1 Records)
  • Ego Ella May (Believe UK)

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Best Independent EP/Mixtape

  • Bricknasty – Blacks Law (FAMM)
  • Jim Legxacy – black british music (2025) (XL Recordings)
  • Naima Bock – Live in Toulon (Sub Pop Records)
  • Strandz – Diaspora Dance Music (Strandz Music)
  • TTSSFU – Blown (Partisan Records)

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Best Independent Remix

  • If We Ever (High Contrast Remix) – Overmono (XL Recordings)
  • Love Who You Love (SHERELLE’s Intelligent Dyke Music Remix) – Sherelle, Romy (Young)
  • Sexistential (Arca’s Take) – Robyn (Young / Konichiwa)
  • The Way I Love You (TS7 Remix) – Jorja Smith, TS7 (FAMM)
  • You (Donae’O Remix) – House Gospel Choir and Donae’O (Swear Down Music)

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – One to Watch

  • Ashaine White (Marshall Records)
  • Alewya (LDN Records)
  • Lauren Auder (untitled (recs))
  • Mandy, Indiana (Sacred Bones Records)
  • Native James (Saviour Music)

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – Event Details and Ticket Information

Tickets and formal hospitality tables for the event are now on sale to both AIM members and the general public. The evening features a red carpet reception, drinks gala, gourmet dinner, live performances from nominated acts, and networking opportunities with major figures from across the global music industry.

  • Date: 22 September 2026
  • Venue: The Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH
  • General Admission (Balcony Seat): £54.99
  • Non-Member Single Seat: £545.00
  • Non-Member Table: £6,534.00

Independent Music Awards 2026 Nominees – References

Musicians, Apply today for the 16th Afro Pépites Show

Musicians, Apply today for the 16th Afro Pépites Show

The 16th Afro Pépites Show from the association Le Rêve Africain (the African Dream)

The digital landscape is buzzing with creative energy as the association Le Rêve Africain officially launches the 16th edition of the Afro Pépites Show. Designed as an international casting call and an e-Art Market, this prestigious annual event serves as a launchpad for self-produced artists from Africa or those deeply inspired by African cultures.

By functioning as the official virtual showcase selection tool for the Motherland Show, the Afro Pépites Show bridges the gap between emerging creative minds and global cultural professionals, talent hunters, and art enthusiasts.

The 16th Afro Pépites Show: A Powerful Platform for Promotion and Global Networking

Navigating the cultural industry as an independent creator requires both immense human investment and robust strategic backing. Since 2009, Le Rêve Africain has deployed its extensive expertise in press relations and artist management to guide creators through this crucial professional phase.

The 16th edition of the Afro Pépites Show operates as a powerful promotional ecosystem. Throughout the entire casting period, all registered participants will enjoy immediate placement on the Motherland Show website within the dedicated “Offers / Participants” section. This continuous digital presence offers immediate exposure to booking agencies, producers, and festival directors worldwide.

Exclusive Selection Benefits for Rising Talents at the 16th Afro Pépites Show

Following the close of applications, the selection committee and the global public will vote to uncover the finest hidden gems (“The Pépites”) of the year. Successful projects selected for the 16th edition will receive premium professional support, including:

  • Targeted Visibility: Free and highly strategic promotion across the expansive network of Le Rêve Africain.
  • Exclusive Showcases:** High-quality project promotion featuring an online showcase to display your performance or artwork.
  • Privileged Industry Access: Direct entry to the Motherland Show to build skills, explore global business-to-business (B2B) opportunities, secure a digital exhibitor stand, and gain unlimited delegate access.

Who Can Apply to the 16th Afro Pépites Show? Flexible Registration Conditions

The structural framework and inclusive spirit of the Afro Pépites Show remain steadfast. The call for artistic projects welcomes self-produced talent across a massive range of disciplines, now updated to include creators of modern solutions.

Applications to the 16th Afro Pépites Show are open to:

  • Performers & Musicians including Solo artists, bands, vocalists, and instrumentalists.
  • Dancers & Choreographers: Expressions of traditional, contemporary, or street dance.
  • Wordsmiths & Storytellers, including poets, writers, humorists, and comedians.
  • Visual Artists:** Painters, sculptors, photographers, and street artists.
  • Designers & Directors:** Stylists, fashion designers, and film directors.
  • Innovators:** Inventors creating unique solutions or contemporary projects (new for this edition).

Click here to Register for the 16th Afro Pépites Show

Application Fees and Deadlines for the 16th Afro Pépites Show

To maintain accessibility, registration remains completely free for all indie artists and labels residing within Africa and South America. For independent creators or those backed by a manager, producer, or publisher based in Europe, North America, or Asia, a standard registration fee applies to cover administrative support and network placement:

  • Independent Artists / Annual Membership:** €20
  • Labels:** €30 (with a reduced fee of €18 for any additional projects submitted)
  • Sponsorship Option:** Global internet users and cultural patrons can also choose to sponsor an artist from the Northern hemisphere by paying their registration fee securely via HelloAsso.

The deadline to complete your registration, upload your electronic press kit (EPK), and secure your membership is **30 September 2026**.

Click here to Register for the 16th Afro Pépites Show

Register Now for the 16th Afro Pépites Show

Do not miss this exceptional opportunity to elevate your artistic career, showcase your unique talent, and connect directly with key industry leaders on a global digital stage. Check your details, prepare your portfolio, and submit your project today.

Click here to 

Important Reference and Resource Links – the 16th Afro Pépites Show

The Ivors 2026 Celebrates the Heart of the song

The Ivors 2026 Celebrates the Heart of the song

Why The Ivors (including Ivors 2026) matter more than ever for Indie Music makers and lovers

As indie music enthusiasts, we are constantly scanning the horizon for authenticity. We look for tracks that feel less formulaic or like they were engineered by an algorithm and more like they were pulled directly from someone’s diaries or late-night thoughts. That is why, of all the glittering events on the industry calendar, the Ivor Novello Awards hold a special place in our playlist-obsessed hearts. Judged exclusively by fellow songwriters and composers, The Ivors bypass the usual commercial hyperbole to focus entirely on the raw craft of songwriting. The 2026 ceremony, held at London’s Grosvenor House, was a monumental night that celebrated profound storytelling and independent spirit.

Jacob Alon: The Double-Triumph of Pure Vulnerability

Scottish singer-songwriter Jacob Alon emerges as the undeniable narrative core of the evening, pulling off a spectacular double win, winning both the Rising Star Award and the highly coveted Best Song Musically and Lyrically for “Don’t Fall Asleep”.

For an independent voice to secure the top lyrical prize is an incredible feat. The judges described the track as “profoundly emotionally honest,” praising its quiet acoustic framing and masterful storytelling. Built around family tragedy, “Don’t Fall Asleep” is exactly the kind of uncompromising, folk-infused art that reminds us why we fell in love with music in the first place.

The major album and songwriter categories further proved that audiences and peers alike are craving distinct, grounded perspectives and the Ivors 2026 rewarded the champions of realist storytelling in kind.

The Ivors 2026 Best Album Winner: EURO-COUNTRY by CMAT

The Best Album Winner is album EURO-COUNTRY written and performed by CMAT, and published in the UK by BMG Rights Management UK. Irish alternative-country pioneer CMAT walked away with the Best Album prize for her brilliant third record, Euro-Country. Celebrated for its unique blend of theatricality, sharp wit, and deep personal honesty, the album perfectly balances intimate emotional landscapes with broader cultural themes.

The Ivors 2026 Giving Voice to Untold Stories

The headline honour, Songwriter of the Year, went to North Shields icon Sam Fender. Celebrated for his grit, working-class narratives, and emotionally piercing anthems across his People Watching era, Fender’s win solidifies his position as one of the most vital chroniclers of modern British life.

In the Best Contemporary Song category, Kae Tempest and co-writer Fraser T Smith triumphed with “I Stand on the Line”. It is a staggering piece of art—an intense, unfiltered look at Tempest’s journey navigating public and personal identity as a trans man. It represents the pinnacle of what contemporary independent music can achieve: providing a raw, brave space for narratives that mainstream pop rarely explores with such depth.

Meanwhile, alt-pop breakout Lola Young secured the PRS for Music Most Performed Work for her slow-burn streaming phenomenon “Messy,” proving that independent-minded, left-of-centre production can still dominate the airwaves.

The Ivors 2026: Honoring Pioneers and Pathfinders

The Ivors 2026 Academy FellowshipThe evening was rounded out by legendary nods that connect the past, present, and future of genre-defying music:

The Fellowships

An overdued poignant posthumous induction for pop icon George Michael took place. And Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke was inducted into the elite Ivors Academy Fellowship—a fitting tribute to a lifetime of sonic experimentation.

Icon and Visionary Awards

Scottish electronic titan Calvin Harris took home the Icon Award, while multi-hyphenate artist Kano was presented with the Visionary Award.

The Ivors 2026: Rewarding Global Game-Changers

Spanish avant-pop star ROSALÍA was named International Songwriter of the Year following her boundary-pushing experimental pop project Lux.

American industry legend Linda Perry received the Special International Award. First-Ever President: In a historic institutional shift, Sir Elton John was announced as the first-ever President of The Ivors Academy, stepping into a global ambassador role to fight fiercely for creator compensation and rights.

The Ivors 2026: The Complete Winners Roll

  • Best Song Musically and Lyrically: “Don’t Fall Asleep” – Written and performed by Jacob Alon
  • Best Contemporary Song: “I Stand on the Line” – Written by Fraser T Smith and Kae Tempest
  • Songwriter of the Year: Sam Fender
  • Rising Star Award: Jacob Alon
  • Outstanding Song Collection: Lily Allen
  • PRS for Music Most Performed Work: “Messy” – Written and performed by Lola Young
  • The Ivors 2026 Academy Fellowship: George Michael & Thom Yorke
  • The Ivors 2026 Ivors Academy President & Honour: Sir Elton John
  • PRS for Music Icon Award: Calvin Harris
  • Visionary Award: Kano
  • International Songwriter of the Year: ROSALÍA
  • Special International Award: Linda Perry
  • Best Original Film Score: Testimony – Composed by Tom Hodge
  • Best Television Soundtrack: Trespasses – Composed by David Holmes and Brian Irvine

Resources and references