Lola Young Leads 2025 Ivor Novello Nominations as Awards Celebrate 70th Anniversary

The 2025 Ivor Novello Awards, marking their 70th anniversary, have announced nominations spanning eight categories and recognizing 74 songwriters and composers, with two-thirds being first-time nominees. British singer-songwriter Lola Young leads the field with three nominations: Best Album for ‘This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway,’ Best Song Musically and Lyrically for her hit ‘Messy,’ and the Rising Star Award. Other artists with multiple nominations include Raye, Ghetts, and Conor Dickinson. The awards celebrate achievements in songwriting and composition across music, film, television, and video games. This year’s Best Album contenders include Charli XCX (‘Brat’), Ghetts (‘On Purpose, With Purpose’), Jordan Rakei (‘The Loop’), Lola Young, and Berwyn. Notably, Wham!’s classic ‘Last Christmas’ receives a posthumous nod for George Michael as one of the most performed songs of 2024, competing against hits by Harry Styles, Dua Lipa, Myles Smith, and Raye. The Rising Star category spotlights emerging talents such as Bea And Her Business, Liang Lawrence, LULU., Nia Smith, and Lola Young. In addition, U2 will be inducted into the Academy Fellowship, becoming the first Irish songwriters to receive this honor. The ceremony, widely regarded as a highlight in the UK music calendar, will take place in London on May 22, 2025, celebrating both established and up-and-coming creators in the industry.[9] [5] [6] [7] [8]