BRIT Awards Critics’ Choice 2026 Shortlist Features Jacob Alon, Rose Gray & SIENNA SPIRO

The BRIT Awards Critics’ Choice 2026 shortlist spotlights rising British talents Jacob Alon, Rose Gray, and SIENNA SPIRO competing for the prestigious title.

A New Wave of Emerging British Talent Hits the BRIT Awards

If you’re a music lover with a keen eye on rising stars, the BRIT Awards Critics’ Choice shortlist announcement is always an exciting moment. This year, the 2026 shortlist has been unveiled, featuring three remarkable artists: Jacob Alon, Rose Gray, and SIENNA SPIRO. These fresh faces are all set to follow the path carved by legendary past winners like Adele, Florence and the Machine, and Ellie Goulding. It’s a thrilling preview of who might be headlining festivals and dominating radio waves in the near future.

The official BRIT Awards 2026 logo symbolizes a fresh chapter for the iconic ceremony.

The Critics’ Choice Award: A Proven Launchpad for Stardom

Since its debut back in 2008, the Critics’ Choice Award has been a trusted predictor of future music icons. It honors British artists who haven't yet cracked the Top 20 album or scored more than one Top 20 single as of October 31, 2025, spotlighting those on the cusp of breakout success.

Jack Saunders revealed the nominations on Radio 1’s New Music Show on December 3, 2025, setting the stage for the winner announcement in January. This year, the buzz is even greater as the BRIT Awards ceremony moves to Manchester’s Co-Op Live—a historic first for the event to be held outside London.

Jacob Alon: Ethereal Energy and Emotional Depth

Jacob Alon’s debut album In Limerence has already made waves, snagging a Mercury Prize nomination earlier this year. Their music blends Scottish and Irish roots into a soulful, ethereal soundscape that has touched many listeners deeply.

Jacob expressed heartfelt gratitude on their Critics’ Choice nod:

“Ya beauty! Tapadh leibh for recognising my work for this award you legends! Even though I’m Scottish & Irish before I’m British, I appreciate the BRITs critics for this recognition. I really care about and believe in this music and it makes my world brighter every time it reaches someone else.”

“Hopefully this nomination means some more beautiful people might find something in this wee album. ‘Mon the gays!!!”

Welcoming Jacob to the Critics’ Choice Class of 2026, the BRIT Awards tweeted with sparkle:

“coming at you with their ethereal energy, it's Jacob Alon welcome them to the BRITs Critics' Choice Class of 2026 ✨ #BRITs”

— BRIT Awards (@BRITs) December 3, 2025

Jacob Alon, recognized for their ethereal vibe and emotional depth.

Rose Gray: Party Vibes and a Journey of Triumph

Rose Gray’s debut album Louder Please made a significant impact this year. She’s been on a rollercoaster journey, manifesting success and connecting with fans in a big way. Her nomination feels like a celebration of how far she’s come in just one year.

Her reaction was full of joy and gratitude:

“I’m so excited for this nomination!! This moment feels like a special reminder of how far this journey has carried me and what a crazy year it’s been. One year ago, I was manifesting so hard for my album ‘Louder, Please’ to travel, to find its people, to really get its light. And it did. Releasing this record has genuinely changed my life. I’m so grateful to everyone who’s been part of this journey and I can’t wait for what’s to come. Thank you BRITs.”

The BRITs echoed the excitement:

“calling all party people, it's @rosegray_ welcome her to the BRITs Critics' Choice Class of 2026 ✨ #BRITs”

— BRIT Awards (@BRITs) December 3, 2025

Rose Gray brings infectious energy and heartfelt stories to the Critics’ Choice stage.

SIENNA SPIRO: The Queen of 3AM Heartbreak Anthems

SIENNA SPIRO released her debut EP Sink Now, Swim Later earlier this year, and her music has already become synonymous with late-night heartfelt anthems. Her nomination is an impressive recognition for someone who only began releasing music last year.

Expressing her disbelief and gratitude, SIENNA said:

“So beyond honoured and grateful to be nominated for this year’s Critics’ Choice BRIT Award! To think I started releasing music last year, I would never have expected this at all. Thank you so much!”

The BRIT Awards also showered her with praise:

“queen of the 3AM heartbreak anthems, it's @sienna_spiro welcome her to the BRITs Critics' Choice Class of 2026 ✨ #BRITs”

— BRIT Awards (@BRITs) December 3, 2025

SIENNA SPIRO captures the mood of late-night reflections with her heart-tugging tunes.

A Trophy That Reflects Manchester’s Spirit

Just last month, the BRIT Awards unveiled the trophy design for 2026, crafted by celebrated British designer Matthew Williamson. Drawing inspiration from his Manchester roots, Williamson’s design channels the city’s famous grit and resilience.

The trophy’s amber resin mirrors the golden honey of a worker bee—the beloved symbol of Manchester—perched atop a globe that celebrates British music’s global impact. Its simple yet striking design perfectly captures the spirit of the event and the city hosting it.

Looking Ahead: What This Shortlist Means for Music Fans

The Critics’ Choice shortlist is not just a list; it’s a snapshot of the future soundtrack of British music. Jacob Alon’s poetic and ethereal tones, Rose Gray’s infectious energy, and SIENNA SPIRO’s emotionally resonant anthems each bring something unique to the table.

This award has a legacy of spotlighting artists who soon become household names, so keeping an ear out for these three is a must. Plus, with the ceremony relocating to Manchester, there’s an extra layer of excitement and fresh energy surrounding this year’s event.

FAQ

• Who are the nominees for the BRIT Awards Critics' Choice 2026?
  Jacob Alon, Rose Gray, and SIENNA SPIRO have been shortlisted for the 2026 Critics’ Choice Award.
• What is the eligibility criteria for the Critics’ Choice Award?
  Artists must be British and not have achieved a Top 20 album or more than one Top 20 single as of October 31, 2025.
• When and where will the BRIT Awards 2026 ceremony take place?
  The ceremony will be held at Manchester’s Co-Op Live, marking the first time the event is held outside London.
• Who designed the 2026 BRIT Awards trophy?
  British designer Matthew Williamson created the trophy, inspired by Manchester’s worker bee emblem and the city’s resilience.
• What previous stars have won the Critics’ Choice Award?
  Past winners include Adele, Florence and the Machine, Ellie Goulding, The Last Dinner Party, and Myles Smith.

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