London's Grosvenor House hosted the Ivor Novello Awards last night, honouring the best in songwriting and composition across Europe and beyond. The ceremony, which recognises the craft behind the music, saw a diverse range of winners from the continent, including Catalan superstar Rosalía, Irish singer-songwriter CMAT, and British artists Lily Allen and Sam Fender.
Rosalía Takes International Songwriter of the Year
Rosalía was awarded the newly created international songwriter of the year prize for her 2025 album LUX, a record that broke streaming records and earned critical acclaim, topping Euronews Culture's best albums list. The Ivors Academy praised her for having 'pushed the boundaries of global songwriting and experimental pop.' Accepting the award, Rosalía highlighted the need for greater diversity in the industry, stating that there are 'countless outstanding writers which will not be recognised as they deserve because they aren't middle-class white Europeans, whose upbringing has been sufficiently stable for them to turn a hint of talent into a successful career.' Her remarks resonated in a room full of peers, underscoring ongoing conversations about equity in music. Rosalía's win also reflects the growing influence of Spanish and Catalan artists on the global stage, a trend seen in other cultural arenas such as the Cannes Directors' Fortnight.
CMAT's Euro-Country Wins Best Album
Irish artist CMAT, born Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, won best album for Euro-Country, a record that blends country music with European sensibilities. The judges commended its 'honesty, originality, and particularly highlighted its ability to balance personal songwriting alongside political and cultural themes.' CMAT's work has been noted for its sharp wit and commentary on Irish and European identity, making her a standout voice in the continent's indie scene.
Sam Fender and Lily Allen Honoured
Sam Fender, who won the Mercury Prize last year, was named songwriter of the year. The Academy described him as 'one of the UK's most important songwriters,' a recognition of his storytelling and social commentary. Lily Allen, following her comeback with the album West End Girl, received the outstanding song collection prize for 'one of the most distinctive and impressive catalogues in British music across the last two decades.' Allen's return to form has been a major narrative in UK pop, and this award cements her legacy.
Rising Star Jacob Alon and Other Winners
Scottish folk singer-songwriter Jacob Alon won both the rising star award and best song musically and lyrically for Don't Fall Asleep. The double win marks Alon as a talent to watch, with a style that draws on traditional Scottish folk while addressing contemporary themes. Other notable winners included Lola Young, whose track Messy was the most performed work, and Calvin Harris, who received the music icon award. Kano took the visionary award, while Linda Perry was honoured with the special international prize.
George Michael and Thom Yorke Receive Fellowships
A poignant moment came when George Michael was inducted into the fellowship of The Ivors Academy, nine years after his death. The award was accepted by his former Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley and lifelong friend Chris Organ. The Academy said the fellowship celebrates his 'excellence and impact in the art and craft of music creation, and his enduring influence worldwide.' Radiohead's frontman Thom Yorke was also awarded the fellowship, described as 'one of the defining songwriters of his generation.'
Sir Elton John Becomes First President of the Ivors Academy
Sir Elton John was announced as the Ivors Academy's first-ever president, an honour presented by Lola Young. She praised his 'outstanding work championing songwriters, composers, and creativity across the music industry.' In his acceptance, Elton John urged artists to protect their work, saying: 'No matter what kind of music you write, it's yours, you own it... It came from your soul, it means a hell of a lot to you. And don't let people take it away from you, especially AI.' His comments come amid growing debates about artificial intelligence in music, a topic that has also sparked discussions among European youth activists who advocate for smarter regulation of technology.
Full List of Winners
- Songwriter of the year: Sam Fender
- International songwriter of the year: Rosalía
- Best album: Euro-Country – CMAT
- Best contemporary song: I Stand on the Line + Know Yourself – Kae Tempest / Fraser T Smith
- Best song musically and lyrically: Don't Fall Asleep – Jacob Alon
- Most performed work: Messy – Lola Young
- Outstanding song collection: Lily Allen
- Rising star: Jacob Alon
- Music icon award: Calvin Harris
- Best original film score: Testimony – Tom Hodge
- Best television soundtrack: Trespasses – David Holmes / Brian Irvine
- Special international: Linda Perry
- Visionary award: Kano
- Academy Fellowship: George Michael, Thom Yorke
