Dave wins the 2019 Mercury Prize for Psychodrama
The Streatham-born rapper won the coveted award over a packed shortlist that included Slowthai, Idles, and The 1975.
Dave has won the 2019 Mercury Prize for his latest album, Psychodrama. The Streatham-born rapper won out over a packed field that included recent albums from The 1975, Anna Calvi, Foals, Fontaines D.C., Cate Le Bon, Nao, and Slowthai.
Dave performed a fiery, brass-filled version of the album's opening song earlier in the evening.
Announcing the winner at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, DJ and host for the night Annie Mac said that Dave's album “showed remarkable levels of musicianship, true artistry, courage, honesty. And it is simply exceptional.” The rapper accepted the award alongside his mother and paid tribute to his brother Christopher, who is currently serving life in prison for murder. “This is your story, and even though you can’t be here, I know you’re watching this bro," Dave said. Ad I’m so grateful, thank you so much.”