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Paul McCartney and Olivia Dean nominated for 2026 Mercury Prize

Paul McCartney, Olivia Dean and Raye are among the nominees for this year's Mercury Prize.

The Beatles legend has received his first Mercury Prize nomination at the age of 84 for his latest album, The Boys of Dungeon Lane.

Reacting to the nomination on Instagram on Thursday, McCartney told his followers that the news had "totally blown me away".

"What a brilliant and exciting surprise to be part of such an incredible list @mercuryprize," he wrote. "To have The Boys of Dungeon Lane recognised alongside so many brilliant artists and albums is a huge honour for me. Thank you to everyone who continues to support and enjoy the album.

"We have been having so much fun along the way. From making it with @thisiswatt (songwriter/producer Andrew Watt) to getting it out there for people to hear. I must say the reaction has been really special."

McCartney was shortlisted alongside second-time nominee Dean for her second record, The Art of Loving. The singer has been on a successful awards streak this year, with her trophy haul including Album of the Year at the BRIT and MOBO Awards.

Meanwhile, Where Is My Husband! hitmaker Raye earned another Mercury nod for This Music May Contain Hope, and former winner Dave was nominated once again for The Boy Who Played The Harp.

The Mercury Prize is an annual music prize awarded for the best album released by a music act from the U.K. or Ireland. In addition to an award, the winner also receives $33,500 (£25,000).

Other notable nominees this year include Florence + The Machine with Everybody Scream, former Little Mix star Jade Thirlwall with her debut solo album That's Showbiz Baby! and previous winners Suede with Antidepressants.

The shortlist is rounded out by Nia Archives (Emotional Junglist), Knats (A Great Day in Newcastle), Kojey Radical (Don't Look Down), Dove Ellis (Blizzard) and Help, a compilation album benefiting the charity War Child.

Notable omissions include Lily Allen's explosive breakup album West End Girl, Harry Styles' latest offering, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally and The Mountain by Gorillaz.

This year's winner will be announced during a ceremony at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, England on 22 October.

Photo: Cover Media
Source: Cover Media
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