Brit Awards omits male and female categories – because music event “aims to be as inclusive as possible” | News about Ant-Man & Art

Separate male and female categories have been dropped by UK organizers and they will be replaced with sexist awards in an effort to make the music awards more inclusive.

Next February, there will be gongs for Artist of the Year and International Artist of the Year, instead of Best Male Female Solo Artist and Best International Male Female Soloist.

Brother The academy has faced pressure to remove its gender-based awards and said the move would honor artists “just for their music and work, rather than the way they choose to define themselves”. or as others may see them, as part of The Brits’ commitment to developing the show to be as inclusive and relevant as possible”.

Sam Smith, who won the critics’ choice award in 2014 and was identified as non-binary, has previously called for the move, saying they look forward to a time when chapters the award process “reflects the society in which we live”.

Next year’s ceremony on 8 February at 02 Arena in London will also welcome four new categories – alternative/rock, hip hop/grime/rap, dance and pop/R’n’B music – all of which will be featured. decided by a public vote.

The rest of the categories will be decided by the academy, which includes about 1,200 music industry professionals across the media, artists, labels, publishers, promoters, sellers, and more. odd and more.

The Song of the Year Awards will also recognize featured artists, rather than just the lead artist and named collaborators.

Comedian Mo Gilligan will present the show next year, replacing Jack Whitehall, who has taken the helm in recent years..

“It’s been an absolute privilege to host the 2022 Brit Awards. I’m really honored to be asked,” Gilligan said.

“We’re in the extensive planning stages and all I can say is, I promise we’ll give everything we’ve got to creating a great night for music fans here. everywhere. Let’s go!”

Clara Amfo and Maya Jama will front the nominations show, The Brits Are Coming, and the pair will also host the red carpet show.

Tom March, Brit president and co-president of Polydor Records, said: “It’s important that The Brits continue to grow and work towards being as inclusive as possible.

“It feels absolutely the right time to celebrate artists’ achievements in the music they make and the work they do, regardless of gender.”

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