Youth Music Awards 2026: Nominees and Sponsors

43 nominees were selected across 11 categories by our panel of industry experts.
Judges included: BICEP, Myles Smith, Jonny Lattimer, Snoochie Shy, Nectar Woode and Sister Bliss.
The Youth Music Awards takes place on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, in Liverpool.

Explore the various awards below to discover the incredible nominees and the awards they are up for. We are proud to showcase the next generation of the music industry in association with Wingstop.

Rising Star (industry) 2026 Supported by Kickers

For a young person who is making waves in a behind-the-scenes role within the music industry.

Inspirational Music Leader Award 2026 sponsored by the MU

For a music leader who inspires project participants through their actions, creativity, determination, positivity, energy, selflessness or ability to overcome challenges.

Young Leader Award 2026 Sponsored by AQA

For a young person who has demonstrated great leadership skills as a project participant.

Original Track Award (Group) 2026 Supported by Arts Council England

For an outstanding track written and recorded by a group (two or more people).

Lyricist Award 2026 Sponsored by PRS for Music

For outstanding lyrics in an original track by an artist or group.

Music Video Award 2026 Supported by Notion

For an outstanding music video by an artist or group involved in a Youth Music funded project.

Outstanding Project Award 2026 Sponsored by Rocksteady

For a Youth Music funded project that pushes the boundaries to promote inclusive music-making.

Music Producer Award 2026 Supported by Elephant Music

For outstanding technical skills in music production, engineering, mixing and/or mastering.

Original Track Award (Solo) 2026 Sponsored by Skiddle

For an outstanding track written and recorded by a solo artist.

Rising Star Award (Artist) 2026 Sponsored by EMPIRE

For a rising musical group or solo artist that is making waves in the music industry.

Social Action Award 2026 Sponsored by Hal Leonard, a Muse Group Company

For an individual, collective or project that has made an outstanding commitment to local community and/or social justice issues.

NextGen Creatives 2026 Supported by Postcode Lottery

Meet the NextGen Creatives working front of house and behind the scenes at the Youth Music Awards 2026.

Live Performances sponsored by Ticketmaster

Ticketmaster supported the next generation of grassroots artists to perform at the Youth Music Awards 2024.

Youth Music Awards Access Fund Sponsored by Sony Music UK

The Youth Music Awards Access Fund enables our award nominees to access funding for their travel to and from the event - this is funded by Sony Music UK.

Youth Music Awards 2026 in association with Wingstop: Nominees and Sponsors