From London to Manchester: Why the BRITs' Move Could Be a Positive Turning Point
There has been a major shift in the UK music calendar. For the first time in history, the BRIT Awards are moving to Manchester in 2026. As someone who usually sits on the voting committee, I have mixed feelings, but overall I see this as a real opportunity for reflection and progress.
A bit of background for those who need it: the BRIT Awards were established in 1977, initially as part of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations. Over the decades, the BRITs have become a staple in the British music industry, showcasing talent, shaping pop culture, and serving up some truly unforgettable moments. From Jarvis Cocker's infamous stage protest to Adele’s acceptance speech being cut short, the BRITs have always been both celebrated and criticised, but never ignored.
Until now, London has always been the home of the ceremony. That made sense for a long time, given the city’s dominance in the music business. But Manchester has just as much cultural weight and an equally rich musical legacy. This is the city that gave us The Smiths, New Order, Joy Division, Oasis, M People, and in more recent years, artists like Aitch and Bugzy Malone. It is a city rooted in working-class creativity, reinvention, and genuine cultural contribution. This move feels not only timely, but necessary.
Moving the BRITs to Manchester opens up space for different voices and narratives. It is a reminder that British music is not just shaped in capital cities or polished West End studios. It is created in community centres, small venues, bedrooms, and local studios across the country. This relocation could serve as a wider reset for the ceremony, and an invitation for new talent to feel included and represented.
That said, it would be remiss not to acknowledge that there is still work to be done. While the BRITs have made progress over recent years, particularly around gender and independent artist representation, there are still gaps. Entire genres are consistently overlooked. The categories could be more reflective of the diverse and dynamic nature of British music today. There are still questions about who gets a seat at the table, whose voices are amplified, and who is left out of the narrative.
If this move to Manchester is to mean more than a change of scenery, then it must be matched by a deeper commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and relevance. The BRITs should reflect the full spectrum of music being made in Britain, not just the most commercially convenient parts.
At Electric Pineapple, we champion artists, producers, and creatives from all backgrounds. We support the stories that are often overlooked and celebrate innovation, not just industry status. I genuinely hope that this new chapter for the BRITs is written with more voices, more honesty, and a greater sense of purpose.
Here is to the BRITs in Manchester. Here is to northern culture, fresh thinking, and a celebration that truly reflects the brilliance of British music today. We will be watching – and we will be cheering them on to get it right.
Trina Smith
Founder, Electric Pineapple Media Group
Executive Board Member, AFEM
Co-Chair, Women in Music UK
