Nick Grimshaw has revealed the 12 artists named as BBC Radio 6 Music’s Artists of the Year 2026.
Announced on his Breakfast Show, the annual list celebrates established and breakthrough acts recognised for their creativity, musical innovation and cultural impact over the past year.
The 2026 list features beabadoobee, Charli xcx, corto.alto, Erykah Badu, Fontaines D.C., Madra Salach, Mandy, Indiana, Phoebe Bridgers, Robyn, Show Me the Body, Shygirl and The Cure.
Several of the artists have thanked the station for its continued support, with Charli xcx saying: “It’s really special to be recognised by 6 Music. Thank you so much for this and for all that you do in championing artists who push things into more challenging sonic places.”
Robyn, whose album Sexistential has been recognised, said: “I feel so flattered to be one of 6 Music’s Artists of the Year. To be considered for having in some way defined 2026 with my album Sexistential is so special.”
Robert Smith of The Cure also welcomed the news, saying: “Very excited that we have made the 6 Music Artist of the Year shortlist. Excellent! Thank you!”
Meanwhile, Scottish jazz musician corto.alto described the recognition as a huge honour, adding: “SOME SMALL FORTUNE was a very personal record for me, and to see it travelling to places I never imagined when I started making it means the world.”
6 Music Music Editor Cam Pia said the list reflected the importance of celebrating musical creativity and the artists shaping the year.
The station will mark the announcement with two special one-hour programmes, 6 Music’s Artists of the Year, Part 1 and Part 2, both available on BBC Sounds from Tuesday 3 November.
The programmes will revisit the artists’ defining moments and achievements, featuring contributions from fans and fellow musicians including A. G. Cook, John Cale, Olivia Rodrigo and The Alchemist.
The celebrations will continue across the station’s schedule with live sessions, interviews, special features and artist-curated programmes.
Highlights include Madra Salach taking over the Artist in Residence slot from Monday 2 to Thursday 5 November, sharing four hours of their favourite music between 11pm and midnight.
Listeners can also hear Huw Stephens in conversation with Show Me the Body on Wednesday 4 November, while Robyn’s Artist Collection is already available on BBC Sounds.
Further programmes include Madra Salach performing a session for Steve Lamacq on Monday 9 November, Nick Grimshaw chatting with corto.alto on Friday 13 November and special Artist in Residence series featuring Phoebe Bridgers and Shygirl later in November.
All programmes will be available on BBC Sounds after broadcast.