Stormzy, James Blake and more awarded 2026 Ivors Academy Honours

Last night (Thursday 1st October) was the commencement of The Ivors Academy Honours 2026, which celebrated seven outstanding music creators and industry figures. Held at the InterContinental London Park Lane, the ceremony acknowledged those creating a fairer, more inclusive future for songwriters and composers across the global music community with their advocacy, innovation, and leadership.

Those who saw themselves honoured were Stormzy for his cultural impact and dedication to broadening educational and career pathways for underrepresented communities. During his acceptance speech, the London-born grime icon announced plans to support 30 more students through studies at Cambridge University through his scholarship scheme.

James Blake, for his fierce advocacy regarding creator remuneration, streaming fairness, and ownership rights. As well as Glastonbury Festival co-organiser Emily Eavis, who was presented with her award honouring her commitment to placing emerging artists on global stages. Broadcaster. And DJ Annie Macmanus, celebrating her 17-year legacy at BBC Radio 1 and her ongoing work with Annie Mac Presents, which champions new musical talent.

Also awarded was songwriter and producer MNEK for his outstanding creative catalogue and his work supporting LGBTQIA+ creators through his annual Proud Sound writing camp. Industry leaders who received praise were also retiring IMRO CEO Victor Finn and Sentric Music CEO Chris Meehan. 

The seven new honourees now join the legendary artist Elton John, who was awarded an Ivors Academy Honour earlier this year and named the Academy's first-ever President.

Tom Gray, Chair of The Ivors Academy, shared, "Tonight is a moment to appreciate the people putting in the hard graft to make music a better place – supporting songwriters and composers, tackling inequality and exclusion, championing diverse voices and making sure creators get a fair deal. These are people who show up, see what’s wrong and have the resolve to do something about it. They use their position to make things better for others. And that deserves to be recognised."

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Header image credit: The Ivors Academy / Facebook.com