Arlo Parks: Record female BRIT nominations show ‘diversity and breadth’ of UK music

The Londoner, 20, is nominated for three BRIT awards
AFP via Getty Images

Arlo Parks has said the strong representation of female artists nominated at the 2021 BRIT Awards is proof of the “exciting diversity and breadth” of talent in British music.

The London-born rising star, 20, is nominated for three BRIT Awards at the ceremony next month - best solo female artist, breakthrough artist and best album.

For the first time in history, four of the five nominees for best album are women - with Dua Lipa, Jessie Ware and Celeste among the other female hopefuls.

Lianne La Havas and Little Mix are among the other women British nominees with Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish some of the International Artists to receive nods.

Speaking about the strong female representation in the nominees, Parks said: “I think it is recognition for women and also the diversity and breadth of the music that women create. The fact all those artists are vastly different but making waves and pushing.. And all being celebrated for being themselves and creating music as women and as artists.

“That is what is exciting about British music - that there is space for all different kinds of voices and approaches to music in general. The fact they are all being celebrated under one umbrella is really cool.”

Parks - whose debut album Collapsed in Sunbeams was released in January - said she was “giddy” with excitement about her nominations

“It is something that I didn’t even have my eyes on,” she said. “I put it to the back of my mind of possibilities. And now, I have three. I still haven’t quite processed it really. I am giddy with it all.”

The star, who was set to embark on her headline tour at the beginning of 2020 - which was postponed due to the pandemic, said her success was a silver lining in what had been a difficult year.

Parks, who was born in Hammersmith, west London, said: “I think having a moment to celebrate the art that has been made despite this difficult period. I have been aware of the BRITs since I was aware of music. It is the pinnacle of British music and to be involved. People that I really look up to. I love Bicep, I love Celeste. This sense of artists that are really making genuine art. That is really special.”

Griff and Dua Lipa will be among the performer at this year’s ceremony - which will take place virtually on May 11 at London arena The O2 and will be hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall.For the full list of nominees, go to...

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