For the first time in its history, the BRIT Awards will reveal its 2017 nominations shortlist on an ITV Saturday night primetime.
Taking place on January 14 and hosted by Emma Willis, the special BRITs nominations launch event will see all of this year’s nominees announced on the night and will also feature live performances from the likes of Olly Murs, Craig David, Christine and the Queens with more to be announced in the coming weeks.
Speaking about the nominations launch show, BRITs chariman Jason Iley said: “Olly and Craig are two of the biggest British male artists out there with long and successful careers having both enjoyed Number One albums this year. Christine and the Queens are one of the most exciting and innovative acts in the world right now. I’m delighted that they are all taking part in this new BRITs Nominations Launch event on January 14. To add to this already stellar line-up we are also thrilled to have Emma Willis as our host. She’s one of the most talented presenters on TV and adds another level to what promises to be one of the best BRITs launches in recent years.”
Murs added: “I’m excited to announce I’ll be playing at the BRITs 2017 nominations launch. Make sure you tune in to ITV on Saturday January 14th. I always love playing live and this will be a great warm up for my 24HRS tour next year."
“I’ve always been a massive fan of The BRIT Awards, it’s one of the most fun nights of the year,” said Willis. “I watch it religiously so I couldn't be more excited to be a part of the team and to reveal all the nominations for 2017.”
Meanwhile, Apple Music has been confirmed as the official music streaming and download partner for The BRIT Awards 2017, presenting the Best British Female and Male categories.
Earlier this month it was announced that the BRITs voting academy had been overhauled to promote diversity among its members. With a core focus on redressing the gender balance and increasing BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) representation on the academy, BPI chairman Ged Doherty spearheaded a significant reshuffle of the voting body that has upped the percentage of female members from 30% to 48% year-on-year. The number of BAME invitees is also up on last year from 15% to 17%.
