“Everything is politics. But now, more than ever, art is politics because you don't get to make art in a fascist state,” said Irish singer-songwriter CMAT when the Guardian spoke to her on the Brits 2026 red carpet.

The question of whether artists have a responsibility to speak out on politics is one that has gained more prominence over the past few years with artist Myles Smith adding: "Art is routed in politics ... it's such an important tool and vehicle."

• ‘The kinetic energy is palpable’: Manchester embraces its first Brit awards

• Hard work, romance and bell hooks: how Olivia Dean became British pop’s newest megastar