Full Breakdown
Wolf Alice Makes Mercury Prize History with Fourth Nomination
10/18/2025, 12:55:18 PM
Historic Achievement at the Mercury Prize 2025
Wolf Alice has made history by becoming the first act to be nominated for the Mercury Prize for four different albums. The band first received a nomination in 2015 for their debut album, *My Love Is Cool*, and won the award in 2018 for *Visions Of A Life*. They were again shortlisted in 2021 for *Blue Weekend*, and their latest album, *The Clearing*, secured their record-breaking fourth nomination this year. The awards ceremony took place on October 16, 2025, at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, marking the first time the event was held outside of London.
During the ceremony, Wolf Alice performed their song "Bloom Baby Bloom." Drummer Joel Amey expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “It’s overwhelming... We’re very grateful.” Bassist Theo Ellis added that the nomination is a validation of their hard work on *The Clearing*, emphasizing the importance of being recognized by an institution that values the art of album-making.
The 2025 Mercury Prize Ceremony
The 2025 Mercury Prize was notable not only for Wolf Alice's historic nomination but also for the overall competition. Sam Fender won the award for his album *People Watching*, which he dedicated to the late Annie Orwin, a significant influence in his life. Fender's acceptance speech highlighted the importance of the event being held in Newcastle, stating, “It’s amazing it’s happened up here, for the first time outside of London.” He expressed surprise at winning, saying, “We didn’t think we were going to win anything so I’m still in shock.”
Other nominees included Pulp, CMAT, Fontaines D.C., and Pa Salieu. Pulp, who were nominated for their album *More*, reflected on their long-awaited return to the music scene after 24 years, with drummer Nick Banks noting the honor of being shortlisted among such talented acts.
Criticism & Opposition
While the ceremony celebrated musical achievements, some critics have pointed out the challenges faced by artists in the current music landscape, including the pressure to produce follow-up albums after receiving accolades like the Mercury Prize. English Teacher, last year's winners, acknowledged the "Mercury curse" and the expectations that come with success, emphasizing the importance of internal motivation in their creative process.
Official Statements & Responses
Wolf Alice's members expressed their excitement and gratitude for their historic nomination. Amey remarked on the overwhelming nature of the recognition, while Ellis highlighted the pride they feel in their latest work. Sam Fender's comments during his acceptance speech underscored the significance of the event's location and the camaraderie among the nominees.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re very grateful” — Joel Amey, Drummer, Wolf Alice
- “It’s an absolute honour and it’s amazing it’s happened up here, for the first time outside of London.” — Sam Fender, Winner of the Mercury Prize 2025
- “It’s always really nice to get on the shortlist, because, you know, a hell of a lot of music gets released every year, so to be picked out as one of the 12 to look at, then that’s really great,” — Nick Banks, Drummer, Pulp
What's Next for Wolf Alice
Following the Mercury Prize ceremony, Wolf Alice will continue their tour across Europe, culminating in their biggest headline shows at London’s The O2. The band is eager to build upon their recent performances and maintain the momentum generated by their historic nomination.
