The Brit Awards: Round up
The Brit Awards 2011 was a somewhat staid affair compared with the shocks and surprises sprung on us in the past, although there were some unsuspected disappointments for one or two performers. Take That were swept off the board for the coveted award for Best Album and Cheryl Cole was denied awards which went to newer younger and very talented artists.
The Brit Awards 2011, staged for the first time at the O2 Arena in London, was kicked off in superb style by Take That. They sent the audience wild with their polished and highly professional performance of Kidz from their album Progress. They were named Best British Group and judging by their performance at The Brits it is well deserved.
However the most prestigious prize for the Best Album went to Mumford and Sons who performed 'Timshel' from their debut album 'Sigh No More' which has sold over a million copies. A blend of country, bluegrass and folk this is a talented band with superb voices, great lyrics and fantastic music. Don't miss it.
In addition to Mumford and Sons, the world of "Folk" celebrated with an award for critically acclaimed Laura Marling. She beat stiff competition from Cheryl Cole, Rumer and of course Ellie Goulding and Paloma Faith for the prize of best british female artist. Still only 20 years old and not widely recognised, Laura is a great admirer of the legendary Joni Mitchell. Laura has developed a talent and maturity which belies her age and we are sure to hear much more of her.
Two gongs went to Tinie Tempah one for British Single and one for British Breakthrough Act a triumph for UK Urban Music over America which has dominated the genre in the past.
His music is clever and very exciting and based on his inner city experiences, but the lyrics include a considerable amount of swearing and are not considered suitable for younger children.
Another young British artist, Plan B, won Best British Male Solo Artist award. This artist has a huge appreciative audience out there. He is highly rated for his music, his lyrics and his emerging talent.
Justin Bieber won the award for International Breakthrough Act and Cee Lo won the International Male Solo Award. He closed the show with Paloma Faith performing his top ten hit Forget You.
There was some excellent talent and some very good music at this year's Brit Awards and it's encouraging to see that new and young performers are being acknowledged and applauded. The other artists celebrating two awards were Canadian rock act Arcade Fire who picked up the Best International Group and Best International Album award for their record The Suburbs.