Charli XCX Wins Big at the BRIT Awards with “Brat” Dominating the Night

Charli XCX dominated the BRIT Awards in London, taking home five prizes, including album of the year for “Brat,” which became a cultural sensation last summer. The album, known for its infectious dance tracks and distinctive lime green aesthetic, even influenced U.S. presidential hopeful Kamala Harris’ campaign visuals. Charli XCX, who led the nominations, also won artist of the year, best dance act, and song of the year for “Guess,” her collaboration with Billie Eilish, which triumphed over tracks like the Beatles’ “Now and Then.” Earlier in the week, she received the songwriter of the year award, marking her first-ever BRIT win.

Reflecting on her success, the 32-year-old singer-songwriter acknowledged feeling like an outsider in the music industry, particularly in Britain. Accepting her album of the year award, she dedicated the recognition to artists who have struggled for acknowledgment without compromising their artistic vision. She emphasized that while it might take time, authenticity can still lead to success. Having debuted in 2013, “Brat” marked her sixth studio album, and she hinted that her next project would likely take a completely different direction.

In other categories, jazz quintet Ezra Collective won group of the year. Drummer Femi Koleoso used the moment to highlight the importance of youth clubs, teachers, and schools in fostering young musical talent, echoing calls from other artists for greater support for grassroots venues. U.S. singer Chappell Roan was named international artist of the year, and her track “Good Luck, Babe!” won international song of the year. Sabrina Carpenter, known for her hit “Espresso,” received the global success award, becoming the first international artist to win the accolade, which previously honored stars like Adele, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, and One Direction.

The ceremony also included a heartfelt tribute to late One Direction singer Liam Payne, who tragically passed away in October after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. The tribute honored his legacy as a member of one of the most successful boy bands of all time, with fans worldwide mourning his loss. The evening celebrated both established and emerging talent, reinforcing the BRIT Awards’ role in recognizing influential voices in music.

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