Performers will now be running for Artist of the Year or International Artist of the Year at the annual ceremony, which will take place on February 8, 2022.
“It is important for The BRITs to continue to grow and work towards being as inclusive as possible,” new Brits president and Polydor Records co-president Tom March said in a statement.
“It feels absolutely the right time to celebrate artists’ achievements in the music they make and the work they do, regardless of gender.”
Britons follow in the footsteps of other award shows or events that have eliminated gender classifications.
In September, the San Sebastian Film Festival presented its first sexist acting award, for best performance, to joint winners Jessica Chastain and Flora Ofelia Hofmann Lindahl.
Next year’s Brits, the 42nd edition of the awards show, will also expand nominations to featured artists in the Favorite Song of the Year category. To date, only the main artist or contributor named has been recognized as nominations for the award.
Four new category awards will also be introduced to showcase a wide range of musical styles: alternative/rock, hip-hop/grime/rap, dance and pop/R’n’B. All four will be voted on by the public.
British comedian Mo Gilligan will host the show, while the Block9 art team will help with the design.
Geoff Taylor, chief executive officer of the British Phonographic Industry and Brit Awards said: “The BRIT Awards are not only a celebration of British music, but a reflection of British culture.
“The changes we’re making to the 2022 show mean more new fans, more engagement, and a larger global platform than ever before for our amazing artists. we.”
