The Brit Awards, the British equivalent of the Victoires de la Musique, will no longer distinguish between singers and singers.
In a press release, the organization announces that the trophies for “best male artist” and “best female artist”, both in the British and international categories, will no longer be valid during the next edition, scheduled for February 8, 2022. A instead, will be presented the awards for British Artist of the Year and International or International Artist of the Year.
“We will celebrate the artists only for their music and their work, rather than according to how they choose to identify themselves or how others can perceive them”, underlines the organizing team saying they are “committed to change the ceremony so that it is as inclusive and relevant as possible. “
Four new categories
The only genres that will be considered at the Brit Awards will be musical. Four new trophies will be awarded: those for best indie / rock album, best hip-hop / grime / rap album, best dance album and best pop / r’n’b album.
In March, Sam Smith, who defines himself as non-binary, was in favor of the elimination of gender categories. “Music has always been for me a question of union and not of division. I look forward to the time when award ceremonies reflect the society in which we live. Let’s celebrate everyone regardless of gender, origins, age, disability or not, sexuality or social class, ”he wrote on Instagram.
The Brit Awards then responded Agree with Sam Smith and announced their intention to move forward in this direction: “We need broad consultation before we make any changes to make sure we’re doing things right. The intention is now realized.