British artist RAYE has been awarded the 2026 Mercury Prize, securing the prestigious honor for her second studio album, "This Music May Contain Hope." The announcement was made on Thursday evening at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, where the annual ceremony celebrated the best album release from a British or Irish artist.
RAYE, born Rachel Keen, triumphed over a notable field of contenders. Her competition included favorite Olivia Dean, JADE, Florence + The Machine, the War Child "Help (2)" compilation, and 84-year-old Paul McCartney, who received his first-ever nomination for his latest record, "The Boys of Dungeon Lane."
The jury praised "This Music May Contain Hope," which features the popular single "Where Is My Husband!," for its unique blend of "old-school Hollywood glamour with kitchen sink realism." In their official statement, the judges noted that the album tells "a story about a young woman navigating the everyday trials of life and love, on an album that is joyous and indeed hopeful." The panel further commended the artist for demonstrating "real imagination and scope in showing what an album can be," adding that her work would serve as a major inspiration for years to come.
Upon accepting the trophy, an emotional RAYE expressed her gratitude, noting that she was "shaking, jetlagged, and tired." She emphasized the significance of the album format in her career, reflecting on her past struggles with the music industry. After previously parting ways with her record label due to disputes over the release of her debut work, she released "My 21st Century Blues" in 2023 as an independent artist. "I’ve always banged on about how much I believe in albums," she told the audience. "To come from a place where it’s all about singles and chasing the next thing, I just feel so grateful to be recognised."
Describing her creative process, RAYE referred to music as "medicine." She explained that while "hope" is a word often avoided in British culture, it is something everyone needs. She added, "Music is that, music is medicine. I just hope that message comes across to anyone who needs it." This win marks her second Mercury Prize nomination, following her recognition for "My 21st Century Blues," which previously helped her set a record at the 2024 BRIT Awards with six wins in one year. RAYE joins a list of celebrated past winners, including Sam Fender, Little Simz, Arlo Parks, and the Arctic Monkeys.
