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The prestigious Mercury Prize is set to make history in 2025 by hosting its annual awards ceremony in Newcastle for the very first time. Traditionally held in London, the event’s relocation is part of a new partnership with Newcastle City Council and the North East Combined Authority, bringing the highly anticipated music celebration to the North East.
The decision to move the ceremony outside of London is a significant milestone for the Mercury Prize, which has long been recognized as one of the UK's most prestigious music awards. A press release announcing the change described Newcastle as “quickly cementing its place as the cultural heartbeat of the North of England,” and emphasized that the move would be a “landmark moment for the North East’s music sector.”
The 2025 Mercury Prize shortlist, featuring the 12 best albums of the year, will be unveiled on September 10. Following this announcement, the award ceremony itself will take place on October 16 at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, a venue known for hosting major live events.
Music fans and industry insiders alike have expressed excitement over the change of location, with many praising the decision to bring the prestigious event to a region known for its vibrant music scene and cultural heritage. The move is expected to shine a spotlight on the North East’s creative talents and further establish Newcastle as a key player in the UK’s music industry.
The Mercury Prize has a long history of celebrating musical excellence, with previous winners including iconic artists such as Arctic Monkeys, Dave, and Wolf Alice. By moving the event to Newcastle, organizers hope to make the awards more accessible to a wider audience and highlight the UK’s diverse musical landscape.
As the countdown to the 2025 Mercury Prize begins, music lovers across the country are eagerly awaiting the shortlist announcement and preparing for what promises to be a historic night at the Utilita Arena. With a new location and fresh energy, this year’s edition of the Mercury Prize is set to be a memorable celebration of the best in British music.