BRITs Critics' Choice Award 2019 shortlist revealed as Lewis Capaldi, Mahalia and Sam Fender

The shortlist for this year's BRITs Critics' Choice has been revealed as Lewis Capaldi, Mahalia and Sam Fender. 

The prize, now in its 12th year, recognises future stars of British music, tipped for success in the coming year. Previous winners include Adele, Ellie Goulding, Sam Smith and Rag'n'Bone Man. 

Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi is currently enjoying success with Grace, which has been added to Radio 1's A List. He's also embarked on his own headline tours and supported Sam Smith's UK arena tour. 

"Absolutely honoured to have been shortlisted for this year’s BRITs Critics’ Choice award alongside two unreal artists," he said. "Genuinely cannot believe I’m being included in something like this and do not think I’ve done enough to be deserving of it! That being said, from here on in I will insist that those around me, including my mother and father, refer to me only as 'BRITS Critics’ Choice Award Nominee, Lewis Capaldi."

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20-year-old Leicester born Mahalia is an R&B singer-songwriter with a string of popular songs online, most notably Sober. "I can’t believe it," she said. "I’m truly honoured to be nominated for the BRITs Critics’ Choice Award. The last year has been surreal to say the least but this really is the cherry on top. Thank you so much to all those who voted for me."

Finally, Newcastle-based musician Sam Fender has been gaining traction with his alt-rock track Play God and more recently his Dead Boys EP, which features the track Poundshop Kardashians. 

The 2019 Critics' Choice Award winner will be announced on Friday December 7, and will receive this year's prize specially designed Sir David Adjaye.

The 2019 BRIT Awards will be broadcast live on ITV on Wednesday, February 20 from London's O2 Arena.