At the highly anticipated Northern Music Awards in Liverpool, Leeds-born artist Nia Archives was crowned Artist of the Year, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. The 25-year-old singer, producer, and DJ received the prestigious honor following the release of her debut album Silence Is Loud in April 2024.
In an emotional moment, Nia Archives expressed her gratitude: “It’s so amazing to make music in your bed or in your house and then see young people and old people resonating with the music, singing and dancing.”
The night also celebrated the rise of new talent, with Luvcat receiving the Breakthrough Award from Simon Jones of The Verve. Luvcat’s year included the release of her debut single Matador and a tour with The Last Dinner Party, cementing her place as a promising new voice in music. Reflecting on her Liverpool roots, Luvcat shared, “Being born by the water of Liverpool, I think something magic is in the blood.”
The Zutons, also hailing from Liverpool, took home the Band of the Year award for their latest album The Big Decider (2024), best known for the iconic track “Valerie,” famously covered by Amy Winehouse.
Blossoms, the Manchester-based pop band, earned Music Moment of the Year for their successful album Gary, which debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
The coveted Disruptor of the Year award went to Yungblud, while the Album of the Year honor went to This Could Be Texas by indie band English Teacher, known for their Mercury Prize-winning sound.
Punk poet Dr. John Cooper Clarke was honored with the Northern Music Award 2025 for his exceptional influence on music and poetry. He opened the event with iconic renditions of Hire Car, I’ve Fallen In Love With My Wife, and I Wanna Be Yours.
In recognition of his significant global impact, Lightning Seeds’ Ian Broudie received the Special Recognition Award, presented by Will Sergeant of Echo And The Bunnymen. The ceremony also saw Chiedu Oraka awarded Newcomer of the Year, Sarah Story named DJ of the Year, and Liverpool Philharmonic honored with the Music and Culture for Wellbeing Award.
The prestigious Festival of the Year accolade went to Kendal Calling, while Hebden Bridge’s Trades Club claimed the Inspirational Venue of the Year Award for venues with capacities under 2,000. The Piece Hall in Halifax took home the award for venues over 2,000.
Sally Bryant was awarded the Nordoff and Robbins Industry Rising Star Award, and the late Chris York was posthumously honored with the Industry Icon Award for his immense contribution to live music promotion.
The 2025 Northern Music Awards celebrated the diversity, creativity, and resilience of the music scene across the North, continuing to spotlight groundbreaking talent and innovation.
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