Olivia Dean and Lola Young have emerged as the leading contenders in the 2026 Brit Awards. Their five nominations each mark a pivotal moment for modern British pop. The awards ceremony will take place on February 28 at Manchester’s Co-op Live, hosting the event for the first time.
Both artists earned nods across multiple major categories. Olivia is up for Artist of the Year, Pop Act, and Album of the Year. She also secured two Song of the Year nominations for “Man I Need” and “Rein Me In” with Sam Fender.
Reflecting on the news, Olivia said the moment feels surreal. She still processes the recognition and recalled watching the Brits as a student. Having trained at the Brit School, she now anticipates a full circle experience, expecting an emotional night.
In addition to nominations, Olivia will perform at the ceremony. Being the first confirmed live act, fans can look forward to a major show opener.
Lola Young matched Olivia with five nominations herself. Her nods include Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Artist, Pop Act, and Alt/Rock Act. The public also nominated her Song of the Year entry, “Messy,” highlighting her rising profile.
Sam Fender earned four nominations, including Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and Alt Rock Act, a category he has won twice. Several other artists gained three nominations, including Lily Allen, Dave, Fred again, and Wolf Alice, while newcomer Jim Legxacy reached the same milestone.
Pulp returned to the Group of the Year shortlist for the first time since 1996, delighting long-time fans. International artists also feature prominently, with KPop group HUNTR/X up for International Song and Group, and Cynthia Erivo earning her first Brit nod for “Defying Gravity.”
The public will vote for Song of the Year, where both Olivia and Lola compete. Their friendly rivalry now plays out through audience support. This year’s nominations reflect a changing industry, showcasing fresh talent that leads the charts and energizes the Brit Awards.
With the countdown to February 28 underway, all eyes are on Manchester. The battle between Olivia Dean and Lola Young has quickly become the defining story of the season
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