English Teacher announced as overall winners of 2024 Mercury Prize

Alt rock outfit English Teacher have been announced as the overall winner of the 2024 Mercury Prize for their album This Could Be Texas.

Broadcaster and Dubliner Annie Macmanus and BBC presenter Huw Stephens hosted the ceremony, which took place in Abbey Road Studios in London. Guest presenter Jamz Supernova announced the overall winner on behalf of the judging team.

“This has been a really tough year for the Mercury Prize judges, with the final 12 albums being so reflective of our diverse & rich musical landscape," the judges said. "There was so much passion and enthusiasm for each one.

"In the end, though, we did agree that This Could Be Texas by English Teacher stands out for its originality & character. A winning lyrical mix of surrealism and social observation, alongside a subtle way of wearing its musical innovations lightly, displays a fresh approach to the traditional guitar band format. This Could Be Texas reveals new depths on every listen; the mark of a future classic."

 

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This year’s show saw artists come together and watch each other’s recent recorded performances - a switch up from the usual evening of live performances taking place at the Hammersmith Apollo. Other acts nominated included Ireland's CMAT for her album Crazymad, for Me,  as well as Charli XCX, who got the nod for her ultra-popular LP BRAT.

• English Teacher frontwoman Lily Fontaine sat down with Stuart Clark earlier this year, where she discussed the group's  soon-to-be Mercury Prize-winning record, her love for Amy Winehouse and more. Read the full interview here.