London group Ezra Collective’s Where I’m Meant to Be have won this year’s Mercury Prize, making them the first jazz act to receive the award. Hosted by Lauren Laverne, the ceremony was held at the Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith in London on Thursday evening (September 7).
Other acts to be shortlisted for the award included Arctic Monkeys, Fred Again, J Hus, Jessie Ware, Jockstrap, Lankum, Loyle Carner, Olivia Dean, Raye, Shygirl, and Young Fathers.
Accepting the award, drummer Femi Koleoso said, “This is not just a result for Ezra Collective, or for UK jazz, but this is a special moment for every single organization across the country, ploughing efforts and time into young people playing music.”
Last year’s Mercury Prize winner was Little Simz for her fourth album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert.
The winner of the 2023 Mercury Prize with @FreeNow_UK is… @EzraCollective – 'Where I'm Meant To Be' 🏆✨ #MercuryPrize pic.twitter.com/YMYQf9o71v
— Mercury Prize (@MercuryPrize) September 7, 2023
