The BRIT Awards' Male and Female categories are being replaced in 2022 – plus, four new genre awards have also been added…
Ahead of the huge event on February 8, the BRITs have announced some big changes and additions to next year's awards.
The previous gendered categories are set to be replaced by British and International Artist Of The Year (rather than Male and Female Solo Artist), with four new genre awards revealed, too: Alternative / Rock Act, Hip-Hop / Grime / Rap Act, Dance Act and Pop / R&B Act.
Those six categories also join: Group Of The Year, BRITs Rising Star supported by BBC Radio 1, Best New Artist, Song Of The Year with Mastercard, Mastercard Album Of The Year and International Group Of The Year.
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"It is important that The BRITs continue to evolve and aim to be as inclusive as possible," says Tom March, BRIT Chair and Co-President of Polydor Records. "It feels completely the right time to celebrate the achievements of artists for the music that they create, and the work that they do, irrespective of gender.
"I'm really excited to launch four new genre awards, which create even more opportunities for artists to be acknowledged for the brilliant music they create and produce, and give music fans the chance to get involved and vote to support their artists and help them to win a BRIT.
"The 2022 show is shaping up really well, Mo is going to be an excellent host and I am thankful to him along with Clara and Maya for being part of this year's BRITs."
Indeed, speaking of Mo Gilligan, he'll be hosting the entire event, with Clara Amfo and Maya Jama presenting.
"It’s an absolute privilege to host the 2022 BRIT Awards," says the comedian. "I’m truly honoured to be asked. We’re already in the extensive planning stages and all I can say is, I promise we’re going to give it all we’ve got to create an incredible night for music fans everywhere. Let’s go!"
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