The Brit awards 2021, the first major in-person post-covid event, has been a long anticipated event. After a three month delay, the awards ceremony debuted with feverish excitement, drinks and amazing entertainment.
The event, which took place in London’s O2 Arena, had 4000 spectators and a very relaxed policy, with no social distancing or face masks. Despite the easing of social regulations, the ‘Tester’ event did not fail to shed light on urgent social issues.
Not only did Perrie Edwards, 26, and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, 29, of Little Mix announce their pregnancies, but also made history as the first girl group ever to Win the Brit Award for British Group. Their awards speech critiques the rampant sexisim and inadequate levels of diversity within the music industry.
Members of Little Mix all looked radiant in all white, during their first awards event since their former bandmate, Jesy Neslon left the group.
Triple nominated Dua Lipa, 25, demanded a pay rise for NHS workers to commemorate their exceptional work during the Pandemic, saying ‘it's very good to clap for them, but we need to pay them’.And rapper AJ Tracey and Headie One denounced the government and disparaging of drill music.
Nominated for Best album, best song and best female artists, Dua Lipa, 25, looked absolutely sensational in her golden Vivienne Westwood Gown.
Performing ‘It’s a sin’ that night was Elton John and Olly Alexander, who were raising awareness and money for HIV/Aids, alongside the Elton John Aids Foundation. The two singers both openly gay, performed a moving rendition of the song, which inspired the TV series by the same name.
Elton John and Olly Alexander's emotional tribute to HIV/AIDS at the BRIT Awards 2021
To end the show, Rag’n’Bone Man performed with the NHS Choir, again in celebratory gratitude towards the exceptional work frontline workers have done, and continue to do, during the Pandemic.
The night, which sparked much conversation and debate on the music industry and society as a whole, characterised the reflective consciousness afforded by the Lockdown and Pandemic.
It comes at no surprise that the first in-person awards ceremony serves some sensational looks. The land-mark event was host to some of the most beautiful services of 2021.
Rina Sawayama in Jordan Kelsey
Griff, 20, who won ‘Rising Star’ opted for two futuristic looks.
Billy Porter in Threeasfour
Mabel in custom Tony Ward
MNEK’s Ruffled Blue Suit by Robert Wun was unmatched
AJ Odudu floored everyone with her Reem Juan gown
Harry Styles styling a 70s inspired Gucci suit and winning the ‘British Single’ award
Triple nominated Arlo Parks in a duet of alluring suits
Maya Jama in a glamorous black mini dress
Olly Alexander in an incredible patterned suit
The Winners:
British Group:
Little Mix
British Female Solo Artist:
Dua Lipa
Global Icon:
Taylor Swift
International Group:
HAIM
Breakthrough Artists:
Arlo Parks
Rising Star:
Griff
British Single:
Harry Styles, Watermelon Sugar
Best Album:
Dua Lipa, Future Nostalgia
International Female:
Billie Eilish
International Male:
The Weekend
Male Solo Artist:
J Hus