The 71st Ivor Novello Awards, now known as the Ivors with Amazon Music, were marked by a mix of celebrations and criticisms from artists and songwriters. The event, held on May 21, 2026, in London, featured a wide array of performances and speeches addressing the state of the music industry.
AI and Industry Challenges
Concerns over AI and low streaming payments dominated conversations. Ivors bosses Tom Gray and Roberto Neri highlighted ongoing challenges for songwriters to be heard and paid adequately. Thom Yorke, receiving the Academy Fellowship, criticized the industry's focus on streaming service share prices, urging, "Pull your fingers out. Just remember, without us, you ain’t shit."
Harry Styles Honors Radiohead
Harry Styles surprised the audience by presenting the Academy Fellowship to Radiohead's Thom Yorke. Styles expressed the profound impact Radiohead's music had on his life, humorously noting, "I lost my virginity to the intro to ‘Talk Show Host.’ Without ‘Exit Music’, there would be no ‘Watermelon Sugar’."
Artist Reactions and Performances
Artists like Jacob Alon and Sam Fender used their platform to criticize AI companies and sponsors. Lola Young, CMAT, and Kano expressed their views on political and industry issues. Notably, Rosalía, awarded International Songwriter of the Year, called the music industry an "insatiable monster."
Emotional Tributes and Awards
The ceremony honored the late George Michael with a posthumous Fellowship. Linda Perry received the Special International Award, humorously recounting her experience in the industry. The night ended with Sir Elton John urging, "Music is the greatest gift you can possibly be given. Don’t let people take it away from you — especially AI."
Source: https://variety.com/2026/music/news/harry-styles-radiohead-rosalia-lola-young-ivor-novello-awards-1236756456/
