Loading
Charli XCX has cemented her status as one of the most influential forces in pop music, taking home the prestigious Songwriter of the Year title at the 2025 Ivor Novello Awards, held at London’s Grosvenor House on May 22.
Marking its 70th anniversary, this year’s ceremony celebrated a landmark moment for British and international songwriting talent, honouring 22 winners across 14 categories, over 70% of them first-time recipients. The Ivors, regarded as one of the most esteemed accolades in the music industry, recognised both emerging and established artists who have made a significant impact over the past year.
Charli XCX’s win comes off the back of her critically acclaimed album ‘Brat’, a bold and innovative project that has not only charted globally but influenced pop culture with its unapologetic aesthetic and sonic experimentation. Judges praised Charli for her creative vision and songwriting consistency, describing her as “a fearless architect of modern pop”.
Credit: NME/Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images
Elsewhere, Berwyn won his first Ivor Novello for Best Album with ‘Who Am I’, a deeply personal and genre-defying record that blends rap, R&B, and spoken word. Lola Young was named this year’s Rising Star, a significant nod to her rapidly ascending career trajectory, while Self Esteem (aka Rebecca Lucy Taylor) received the Visionary Award, acknowledging her boundary-pushing artistry and powerful voice in contemporary music discourse.
Other major wins of the night included:
In the world of screen and media composition, Raffertie won Best Original Film Score for The Substance, while John Konsolakis earned Best Original Video Game Score for Farewell North. The haunting score for True Detective: Night Country by Vince Pope secured the Best Television Soundtrack.
The night was not only a reflection of the UK’s songwriting prowess but also a celebration of diversity, fresh talent, and the evolving landscape of music. With industry legends and rising stars sharing the spotlight, the 2025 Ivors served as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to inspire, challenge, and connect audiences across generations.