RAYE has won the 2026 Mercury Prize for her second album, “This Music May Contain Hope,” overcoming competition from favorite Olivia Dean and fellow nominee Paul McCartney. At 84, McCartney had been shortlisted for the first time. The annual award, which honors the best album released by a British or Irish artist, was presented at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on Thursday evening. For RAYE, born Rachel Keen, it marked her second Mercury nomination.
The judges commended the album’s combination of classic Hollywood glamour and everyday realism, describing its exploration of a young woman’s experiences of life and love as joyful and hopeful. Featuring the hit single “Where Is My Husband!,” the record was also praised for its imaginative scope and refusal to remain within a single genre. Visibly grateful in her acceptance speech, RAYE reaffirmed her commitment to albums rather than the constant pursuit of individual singles. Calling music “medicine,” she emphasized that hope is something everyone needs.
That defense of the album format carried particular significance given her history with her former record label. She left the company after accusing it of blocking the release of her debut, subsequently issuing “My 21st Century Blues” independently in 2023. The debut brought her first Mercury nomination and led to a record-breaking six BRIT Awards in 2024—the highest number won by an artist in a single year. Her latest victory places her among previous Mercury winners including Little Simz, Michael Kiwanuka, and Arctic Monkeys.
