Raye wins 2026 Mercury Prize for ‘This Music May Contain Hope’

The pop‑jazz artist triumphed over Olivia Dean, Dave and Paul McCartney at the ceremony on Oct. 22.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 22 Oct 2026 22:00:26 GMT

Raye’s album This Music May Contain Hope was named the winner of the 2026 Mercury Prize at a ceremony in Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on Thursday, Oct. 22, according to three UK outlets.

What happened

The Mercury Prize ceremony took place at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle on Oct. 22. Raye was announced as the winner of the £25,000 award, beating a shortlist that included Olivia Dean, rapper Dave, former Little Mix member JADE, Florence + The Machine and Sir Paul McCartney, who was shortlisted for the first time with his album The Boys of Dungeon Lane. The shortlist comprised twelve albums, each performed live except for Dave and McCartney, who were represented by a short film.

What the reports add

Independent.co.uk noted that Raye’s win marks a rare pop‑album victory, highlighting the album’s blend of jazz, soul and R&B influences. Billboard added that Raye is the first female solo artist to win since Little Simz in 2022 and that her 2023 album My 21st Century Blues had also been nominated. The Guardian described the winning record as a 73‑minute work that spans big‑band jazz, funk and power ballads, and mentioned that the album topped the UK charts and features the global hit “Where is My Husband?”.

What was said

The judging panel, quoted by Independent.co.uk, said: “While the 12 albums shortlisted for 2026 Mercury Prize were wildly different, each one demonstrated how the album continues to be the ideal format for an artist or group wishing to get their artistic statement out into the world.” The Guardian reported the panel’s comment that Raye “displays real imagination and scope in showing what an album can be, going beyond any one style or genre to realise her vision.” Billboard noted that the award ceremony was presented at the Utilita Arena, but did not include a direct quote from organisers.

How it came about

Raye’s rise follows a turbulent period in 2021 when she publicly criticised her former label for blocking a debut album. After leaving that label, she released My 21st Century Blues, which won six Brit Awards, and then This Music May Contain Hope, which topped the UK charts. The Mercury Prize ceremony, previewed in Felo’s earlier coverage of the event (RAYE, Olivia Dean and Others to Perform at 2026 Mercury Prize in Newcastle), featured live performances from most nominees and a charity segment by Pulp.

Key facts

Raye won the 2026 Mercury Prize for her album This Music May Contain Hope. (independent.co.uk)
The ceremony was held at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle on Oct. 22, 2026. (billboard.com)
Raye beat 11 other nominees, including Olivia Dean, Dave and Paul McCartney. (independent.co.uk)
The prize includes a £25,000 award. (theguardian.com)
Raye is the first female solo artist to win since Little Simz in 2022. (billboard.com)

Timeline

2021-01-01 — Raye publicly criticised her record label for blocking a studio album.
2023-03-15 — Raye released My 21st Century Blues, winning six Brit Awards.
2026-09-30 — Felo reported on the upcoming Mercury Prize ceremony and performers.