Charli XCX takes home the songwriter of the year award at the Ivor Novello Awards, solidifying her dominance in songwriting with a breakthrough album that resonated worldwide.
In a ceremony that celebrated the power of music, Charli XCX took home the songwriter of the year award at the Ivor Novello Awards. The 27-year-old musician downplayed her talents as a songwriter, joking about being ‘hardly Bob Dylan‘ and saying she was committed to her craft.
Charli XCX is a British singer-songwriter and record producer known for her experimental and avant-garde approach to pop music.
Born Charlotte Emma Aitchison in 1992, she rose to fame with her debut single 'Stay Away' in 2011.
Charli XCX's unique sound blends genres like electronic, hip-hop, and punk, earning her a devoted fan base.
Her critically acclaimed album 'True Romance' (2013) and hit singles 'Boom Clap' and 'Boys' have solidified her position as a trailblazer in the music industry.
Charli XCX‘s sixth studio album, Brat, was a breakthrough success, earning her recognition for its ground-breaking sound and nuanced themes of hedonism, vulnerability, and self-discovery. The album’s ‘chaos and emotional turmoil set to a club soundtrack‘ resonated with audiences worldwide, making it the perfect soundtrack for summer 2024.
Awards and Accolades
In addition to Charli XCX‘s songwriter of the year win, several other artists took home prestigious awards. U2 became the first Irish band to receive the Academy Fellowship, recognizing almost 50 years of hits including ‘With or Without You,’ ‘Sunday Bloody Sunday,’ and ‘Vertigo.’ The band’s frontman Bono paid tribute to the power of music, saying it can be an arrow through time that pierces the human heart.
U2 is an Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 1976.
The band consists of Bono (vocals, guitar), The Edge (guitar, keyboards), Adam Clayton (bass), and Larry Mullen Jr. (drums).
Known for their anthemic sound and socially conscious lyrics, U2 has released '14 studio albums' , selling over 500 million records worldwide.
They have won '22 Grammy Awards' and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The Killers won the special international prize, with Brandon Flowers joking about his reaction to receiving the award. Robbie Williams was named the Ivor Novello’s ‘Icon‘ for 2025, recognizing his 34-year career in music from boyband hits to solo success.
New Talent and Rising Stars
Lola Young took home the rising star award, honoring her breakthrough single ‘Messy.’ The 24-year-old musician credited her parents with supporting her musical ambitions and shared her plans for future projects. Myles Smith‘s song ‘Stargazing‘ was named the most-played song on UK radio last year.
Lola Young is a British singer-songwriter known for her emotive and introspective music.
Born in London, England, she began writing songs at the age of 13.
Young's music often explores themes of love, relationships, and self-discovery.
She has released several EPs and singles, gaining a loyal following online.
Her soulful voice and poetic lyrics have drawn comparisons to artists like Adele and Sam Smith.
Taking a Stand
Self Esteem won the visionary award, using her speech to advocate for protecting young women from misogyny and online abuse. She also thanked her parents for their support during her struggles in the music industry.
The Ivor Novello Awards: A Celebration of Songwriting Excellence
The 2025 Ivor Novello Awards celebrated the art of songwriting, recognizing artists who have made significant contributions to the world of music.
