Thursday (Oct. 1) saw three people from the British music business receive honors at the Ivors Academy’s second annual Honours ceremony in London. The group included a rapper, a songwriter and a festival organizer.
At the Intercontinental London Park Lane, an occasion was held to honor creative individuals and company leaders whose advocacy and leadership shape “a better future for songwriters and composers,” according to The Ivors Academy.
The Ivors Academy Honours began in 2025, and RAYE and Jon Platt, the CEO of Sony Music Publishing, were among those who received it. The Ivors is a leading U.K. association for songwriters and composers, and it holds a regular awards ceremony. At the ceremony in May held by 2026, Elton John, Harry Styles, Thom Yorke and Rosalía were among those in attendance.
Blake’s Acceptance Speech
James Blake was recognized for his work in demystifying songwriting and distribution deals. “I believe that transparency will unlock the limitless potential that is currently being left on the table,” Blake said in his acceptance speech. “We do something that is meaningful, and I believe it is on those of us lucky enough to have a foot in the door to fight for the musicians that follow.”
Eavis Celebrates Emerging Talent
Emily Eavis, who runs Glastonbury Festival, was praised for building a platform where up-and-coming songwriters could reach the largest stages. She responded with a statement that reflected on her role in nurturing talent. “This means a lot to me because Glastonbury is about showcasing talent; so many artists have come through, from Adele to Stormzy,” she said. “It’s such a celebration of these incredible artists, particularly British artists. It’s very special to receive this from you guys who are at the forefront fighting for artists, so thank you.”
“This means a lot to me because Glastonbury is about showcasing talent; so many artists have come through, from Adele to Stormzy.”
MNEK on Confidence
During his acceptance speech, MNEK, who has served as a songwriter for artists including PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson, recently released his second solo studio album BULLDOZER!! and spoke about it, saying “I love making music, it’s what I’m on this planet to do. [Music] is the thing that gives me the most confidence in myself, and it’s the thing that I feel most confident doing. So, to be recognised for it is very cool. Thank you to the Ivors Academy for making me, the songwriter, the star tonight.”.
Stormzy’s Presentation
Shani Gonzales, who runs Warner Chappell Music U.K. and oversees international A&R, gave Stormzy his award. She said that “I’m so very very blessed that I get to call music my job.”.
Seven people were honored at the event, with Annie Macmanus, radio DJ and podcast host, singled out for her role as a curator and advocate for emerging artists. Victor Finn, CEO of IMRO, Ireland’s music rights collecting society, and Sentric CEO Chris Meehan were also recognized on the evening. The seven recipients join Elton John, who received his Ivors Academy Honour at the Ivor Novello Awards in May 2026.
The ceremony honored seven people in total.
Source material: “Stormzy, James Blake, Glastonbury’s Emily Eavis Recognized at Ivors Academy 2026 Ceremony,” Billboard.
Get the Notebook.
The day's best stories and every fresh verdict, in plain English, in your inbox by seven. One email a day, no more.