Raye won the 2026 Mercury Prize on October 22 for her second album, This Music May Contain Hope, according to Pitchfork and Mixtape Madness. The result was announced at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, where broadcaster Lauren Laverne hosted the ceremony celebrating British and Irish albums.
It is her first Mercury victory. Pitchfork reported that her 2023 debut, My 21st Century Blues, also reached the shortlist but lost to Ezra Collective. This year’s official 12-album selection included releases by Olivia Dean, Paul McCartney, Dave, Jade, Florence + The Machine and Nia Archives.
The judges praised the winning record’s ambition, organisation and appeal, according to their statement reproduced by Mixtape Madness. They said the contrasting shortlisted works demonstrated the continuing value of albums as vehicles for artistic expression, including in a music market shaped by streaming.
Broadcaster and DJ Sian Eleri presented the trophy on behalf of the judging team, Mixtape Madness reported. Raye then performed I Hate The Way I Look Today from the winning album and received a standing ovation. Other performers included Suede, Olivia Dean and Pulp, which represented the Help(2) compilation.
In her acceptance remarks, reported by Pitchfork, Raye expressed gratitude for recognition of an album after earlier pressures to focus on singles. She also said she wanted its message of hope to reach listeners who needed it. The award recognises the complete record rather than an individual song.
The organisers say an independent panel of music professionals chooses the shortlist and decides the winner on the night. Newcastle hosted again in partnership with its city council, with BBC Music providing coverage. The result completes the 2026 selection and adds the Mercury honour to Raye’s second album.
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