The Mercury Prize will be held outside of London for the first time in its history – and Newcastle is set to host the 2025 ceremony.
Generator, the North’s leading music development agency, has been named Lead Industry Partner for the 2025 event and played a key role in bringing the prize to the region. The agency has worked closely with Newcastle City Council, the North East Combined Authority, and national stakeholders to support the move and secure a lasting legacy for the North East.
The 2025 Mercury Prize ceremony will take place at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on 16 October, with Generator also delivering a week-long fringe programme showcasing Northern talent across a series of venues in the run-up to the main event.
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Mick Ross, CEO of Generator, said: “We’re proud to be the Lead Industry Partner for the Mercury Prize’s move to Newcastle, working closely with regional and national partners to bring this opportunity to the table. We can’t wait to share plans for a week-long fringe programme that will put a global spotlight on our incredible city and showcase the raw talent, passion, and creativity that drive our community.
Following the MOBOs, Music City initiatives, Sonic Futures, the Northern Music Export Office, and our partnerships with EMI North and Warner, this moment cements the North East’s position as the new home of the Northern music industry, leading the way for a stronger, more sustainable future in music, culture, and creativity.”
Dr Jo Twist OBE, Chief Executive of the BPI, said: “We are delighted to announce this groundbreaking moment for the Mercury Prize. We and our label community are committed to celebrating and providing the opportunity to showcase talent from all over the UK. Newcastle is a true music city and we are excited to work with our partners to deliver this inaugural moment and a memorable Mercury Prize 2025.”
The move has also drawn praise from civic leaders across the region. Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “The fact that Newcastle has been chosen as the first location for the prestigious Mercury Prize to ever be held outside of London speaks volumes of the growing strength of the music industry in the city and wider region.”
Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “Bringing the Mercury Prize to the North East is yet another fantastic accolade that builds on our proud cultural history and strengthens our reputation as a region of culture. The success of artists like Sam Fender shows what’s possible for young musicians in our region.”
Sarah Hall, BBC Press Office, said: “The BBC is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with the Mercury Prize. We look forward to broadcasting this year’s event live from Newcastle, celebrating the best in British and Irish music with audiences across the UK and beyond.”
The Mercury Prize 2025 Awards Show will be broadcast live across BBC TV, radio and digital platforms, featuring performances from many of the shortlisted artists, with the winner revealed on the night. The official ‘Albums of the Year’ shortlist will be announced on 10 September.
