Kae Tempest received his second Ivor Novello award for Best Contemporary Song at the 2026 ceremony last week. He shared the win with Fraser T. Smith for the track 'I Stand on the Line' from his album 'Self Titled'.
The London artist described the victory as surreal while reflecting on connections with fans during his 2025 tour. He said everyone in the room goes to this place together and you can see what it means in the faces of the people in the crowd. Tempest also expressed deep admiration for Jacob Alon, calling him an incredible performer and musician whose heart is so raw and open. He vowed to protect Alon at all costs and noted that the industry is not easy when you are a sensitive person. Other winners included CMAT for Best Album, Sam Fender as Songwriter Of The Year, and Rosalía as International Songwriter Of The Year. Thom Yorke received the Academy Fellowship from Harry Styles, and George Michael was awarded it posthumously.
