Jacob Alon has won the 2026 BRITs Critics’ Choice Award, marking a major milestone in his rising music career.
The Scottish art-folk singer topped the shortlist, which also included Rose Gray and SIENNA SPIRO. The BBC Radio 1 announcement came on Monday evening via Jack Saunders.
In a heartfelt statement, Jacob said, “Taing mhòr to the critics for recognising my work for this award, you absolute dotes! In the wee town where I grew up in Scotland, it often felt like there was a limit to how high you could dare to dream. Therefore, being part of something like this makes me feel like I’m floating far above the sky.”
Jacob Alon wins continues a tradition of notable BRITs Critics’ Choice recipients. For instance, past winners include Adele, Ellie Goulding, Sam Smith, The Last Dinner Party, and Florence and the Machine. Each artist used the award as a springboard to wider recognition.
Reflecting on his music, Jacob added, “In a world full of broken and rusted jaggy edges, I’m grateful to find a place for softness still. I will keep fighting for it. I care deeply about this music, and it makes my world brighter every time it reaches someone else. Hopefully, this means some more beautiful people might find something in my album.”
To qualify for the 2026 Critics’ Choice Award, artists had to be British. They also must not have released a Top 20 album or more than one Top 20 single by October 21, 2025. The accolade remains one of the first announced ahead of the BRIT Awards ceremony.
This year, the BRIT Awards will take place in Manchester on February 28. This marks the first time in nearly five decades the event has been held outside London. Both the 2026 and 2027 ceremonies are scheduled at the Co-op Live Arena.
Dr Jo Twist OBE, BPI CEO and BRITs Committee member, praised the move. She said it celebrates Manchester’s musical heritage and the creative potential across the UK. Moreover, she added, “This new chapter honours the city’s exceptional music legacy and highlights the depth of artistic energy nationwide.”
Jacob Alon wins this prestigious award at a pivotal moment. Consequently, his talent now reaches a wider audience. Fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting his next release, as his influence in British music continues to grow.
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