Adele, Ed Sheeran, Little Slimz and Dave have become beneficiaries of Brit Awards’new introduction of scrapping the gendered categories that separate male and female Artistes from the awards scheme.
The new system has most female nominees in more than a decade, with Adele, Olivia Rodrigo and Dua Lipa all in the running for multiple prizes.
Adele ties with Ed Sheeran, Little Simz and Dave for the most nominations. They receive four apiece, and all feature in the prestigious best album and best British artist categories.
Sam Fender completes the shortlist for those awards, and picks up a third citation for best rock artist. Rap newcomer Central Cee also achieves three nominations, including best new artist.
Little Mix, who this year became the first female act to win best British group, are in the running for that prize once again.
A total of 13 Artistes got double nominations, including Billie Eilish, Lil Nas X, Glass Animals, Wolf Alice and Dua Lipa.
Lipa’s manager, Ben Mawson, was among those who supported the Brits going gender-neutral.
“It’s good to see the Brits continuing to make progress to a more inclusive awards show that puts talent first,” he told the BBC last month. “It’s a step that we welcome.”
The prizes will be handed out on 8 February, 2022 at London’s O2 Arena, with comedian Mo Gilligan taking over from Jack Whitehall as the host.
