The Ivors Academy has recognised James Blake, Emily Eavis, Victor Finn, Annie Macmanus, Chris Meehan, MNEK and Stormzy at The Ivors Academy Honours, held at the Intercontinental London Park Lane.
“The Ivors Academy Honours recognise the creators and executives setting higher standards across the sector, and whose advocacy, leadership and innovation are shaping a better future for songwriters and composers,” said a statement.
Previous honourees include Raye, Kae Tempest, Sir Richard Branson, Jon Platt, Kanya King CBE and Carla Marie Williams MBE.
At the 2026 ceremony, James Blake was honoured for his exceptional artistry and advocacy for songwriters and artists. The Honour was presented by CEO of The Ivors Academy Lord Neri and Chair Tom Gray.
In his acceptance speech, Blake said: “Thank you so much to the Ivors for this Honour and for all of the work you do. Every year I hear about more and more ways you have advocated for us as artists and writers, so I really appreciate that. I believe that transparency will unlock the limitless potential that is currently being left on the table. We do something that is meaningful, and I believe it is on those of us lucky enough to have a foot in the door to fight for the musicians that follow.”
Emily Eavis, Glastonbury Festival organiser, was recognised for her impact on music and culture, and her commitment to championing emerging talent. “Through the festival, she has created opportunities for songwriters across a variety of genres and backgrounds to connect with audiences on an extraordinary scale, consistently placing new and developing artists alongside globally-recognised acts,” said a statement.
Eavis’ Honour was presented by Elbow frontman Guy Garvey.
"This means a lot to me because Glastonbury is about showcasing talent; so many artists have come through, from Adele to Stormzy," she said. "It's such a celebration of these incredible artists, particularly British artists. It’s very special to receive this from you guys who are at the forefront fighting for artists, so thank you.”
Victor Finn, CEO of IMRO, Ireland’s music rights collecting society, received an Ivors Honour for his longstanding support of Irish songwriters and composers. He retires from IMRO at the end of 2026 after almost two decades of leadership.
Finn also played a key role in The Ivors Academy’s launch in Ireland. He received the Ivors Honour from Paul Clements, CEO of the Music Publishers Association.
"The Ivors Academy is there to champion, to support, and to nurture songwriters, composers and creators – it's something that resonates really strongly with what we do at IMRO,” said Finn.
We are proud to honour your achievements and how you’re making a positive difference to music and its creators
Lord Neri
Broadcaster, DJ, curator and writer Annie Macmanus received an Ivors Honour for her role shaping music culture and bringing new music to wider audiences. Since leaving Radio 1 in 2021, she has developed AMP (Annie Mac Presents), spanning live events, albums and programming. Macmanus received the Ivors Honour from Nick Grimshaw.
“I am so humbled and grateful to be here in such gorgeous company with my fellow recipients," she said. "Thank you so much to the Ivors Academy for even thinking of me. I’m so chuffed, and it’s been a lovely opportunity to look back.”
Chris Meehan, CEO of publishing, Believe was honoured for nearly two decades spent making music publishing more accessible, transparent and fair for songwriters. Peter McCamley, VP of publishing at Believe Music Publishing presented the award.
Meehan said: “Access leads to shared success, as publishers and songwriters are fighting for the same thing, and that's for us all to win."
MNEK was recognised for his contribution as a songwriter, producer and artist, alongside advocacy for LGBTQIA+ songwriters and artists. “A sought-after writer and producer whose work has contributed to the careers and music of artists around the world, MNEK has also created new opportunities for queer talent through annual songwriting camp Proud Sound,” said a statement.
MNEK’s frequent collaborator, Becky Hill, presented the Ivors Honour.
"I love making music, it’s what I’m on this planet to do," said MNEK. "[Music] is the thing that gives me the most confidence in myself, and it's the thing that I feel most confident doing. So, to be recognised for it is very cool. Thank you to the Ivors Academy for making me, the songwriter, the star tonight.”
Stormzy received an Ivors Honour recognising his impact on British music and culture and his commitment to creating opportunities for others.
“His music has resonated with audiences around the world and he has used his success to support access to education, to invest in emerging talent, and to broaden pathways into industries and institutions that have not always reflected the diversity of modern Britain,” said a statement.
Shani Gonzales, managing director of Warner Chappell Music UK and head of international A&R, presented the Ivors Honour on stage.
Stormzy said: "Thank you to the Ivors for this award, I am super grateful. I am in a room with people who inspire me, and people who I’m still so honoured to be around, and I’m so very very blessed that I get to call music my job.”
These are people who show up, see what’s wrong and have the resolve to do something about it
Tom Gray
The seven recipients join Elton John, who received an Ivors Academy Honour at The 71st Ivor Novello Awards in May 2026, in recognition of his work championing songwriters, composers and creativity across the industry. It also recognised his longstanding advocacy for creators’ rights, including his work around AI and the protection of human creativity. At the ceremony, The Ivors Academy also announced Elton John as its first ever president.
Singer-songwriter Mulaa Joans performed Birthday Makeup as part of the evening’s celebrations. The track has more than 70 million streams.
Lord Neri, CEO of The Ivors Academy, said: “Congratulations to all of our honourees. We are proud to honour your achievements and how you’re making a positive difference to music and its creators. From establishing inclusive spaces and opening up the world’s biggest stages, to championing new music, meeting ambition with opportunity and getting creators the money they’re due, each of you shows what can happen when we lift each other up.”
Tom Gray, Chair of The Ivors Academy, said: “Tonight is a moment to appreciate the people putting in the hard graft to make music a better place – supporting songwriters and composers, tackling inequality and exclusion, championing diverse voices and making sure creators get a fair deal. These are people who show up, see what’s wrong and have the resolve to do something about it. They use their position to make things better for others. And that deserves to be recognised.”
The Ivors Academy Honours continue the legacy of the Academy’s Gold Badge Awards, first presented in 1974, which recognised individuals who made an outstanding contribution to the UK’s music industry.
PHOTOS: Dave Benett Agency
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