Mercury Music Prize 2023: Jazz Quintet Ezra Collective Thankful to Beat Arctic Monkeys, Fred and Jessie Ware for Annual Award After Forming Band at Youth Club
Jazz quintet Ezra Collective expressed their gratitude after winning the prestigious Mercury Music Prize in 2023. The London-based band triumphed over renowned acts such as Arctic Monkeys, Fred, and Jessie Ware to claim the annual award.
Ezra Collective, consisting of Femi Koleoso, Joe Armon-Jones, TJ Koleoso, Dylan Jones, and James Mollison, formed in a youth club. The group considers themselves fortunate to have emerged victorious against such esteemed competition.
The Mercury Music Prize, established in 1992, recognizes the best album released by a British or Irish artist each year. The award ceremony took place at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, London, with Ezra Collective walking away as the winners.
The jazz ensemble’s winning album, titled “You Can’t Steal My Joy,” was praised for its fusion of various musical genres, including Afrobeat, reggae, and hip-hop. The judges commended the band’s ability to create a unique sound that resonates with a wide audience.
Upon receiving the award, the members of Ezra Collective expressed their gratitude to God and all those who supported them throughout their journey. They acknowledged the tough competition they faced from artists like Arctic Monkeys, Fred, and Jessie Ware, making their victory even more significant.
The band members were thrilled to have won the Mercury Music Prize, considering it a validation of their hard work and dedication. They also expressed their hope that this recognition would help to elevate jazz music and bring it to a wider audience.
Ezra Collective’s win has been celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike. The band’s unique blend of jazz with other genres has earned them a loyal following and critical acclaim. Their success at the Mercury Music Prize solidifies their position as one of the most exciting and innovative acts in the British music scene.
The Mercury Music Prize has a history of recognizing and celebrating diverse talent. Previous winners include iconic artists such as Primal Scream, Pulp, Arctic Monkeys, and Dizzee Rascal. The award has become a significant platform for emerging artists to gain recognition and exposure in the music industry.
As Ezra Collective basks in the glory of their Mercury Music Prize win, they are determined to continue pushing boundaries and creating music that resonates with audiences worldwide. Their victory serves as an inspiration to other aspiring musicians, proving that talent and hard work can lead to great achievements in the music industry.
