Olivia Dean and Wolf Alice are among the leading names in the 2026 Ivor Novello Awards nominations, with this year’s shortlist highlighting a strong focus on songwriting and composition. The nominations were announced ahead of the 71st edition of the ceremony, set to take place in London on May 21.
Dean and Wolf Alice’s Ellie Rowsell each received two nominations, placing them at the front of this year’s field. The wider list also includes Lola Young, Lily Allen, CMAT, Self Esteem, Kae Tempest and Coldplay, reflecting a mix of established acts and emerging voices across British and Irish music.
The Ivors have long centered on the craft behind the music rather than commercial performance. Categories recognize achievements in song, album writing, and screen composition, giving space to lyricists and composers whose work defined the past year.
The ceremony is expected to bring together songwriters and industry figures to acknowledge the role of writing in shaping modern music.