Mercury Prize 2027: shortlist announcement date and judging panel announced with tickets on sale now

The shortlist announcement date and judging panel for the Mercury Prize 2027 has now been announced – check out all the details below. Today’s (Monday July 27) announcement comes following the biggest year yet for the awards in 2025, where it took place in Newcastle – the first time in its history that it was held outside of London. Held at the Ultilita Arena, the ceremony saw local hero Sam Fender take home the award for his record ‘People Watching’. The awards are set to return to Newcastle next year on October 22, and tickets are available to the general public now – you can find yours here. The awards show will feature live performances from many of the 12 shortlisted artists – who will be announced exclusively live on BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Sounds from 10.30am this Thursday (July 30). Ahead of the announcement of the long-awaited 2026 ‘Albums of the Year’ line-up this Thursday, the 2026 Mercury Prize judging team has been revealed. Making up the judging team are music writer and broadcaster Sophie Williams, The Times‘ rock and pop critic Will Hodgkinson, composer, DJ and radio broadcaster AFRODEUTSCHE, and broadcaster and musician Danielle Perry. Alongside them will be Radi...