Harry Kinds lit up the stage on the 2023 Brit Awards in London on Feb. 11. After opening the present with a stunning efficiency of “As It Was” — in a red-hot sequin jacket, no much less — Kinds accepted the award for artist of the 12 months, introduced by Salma Hayek. His fellow nominees included Central Cee, Fred Once more, George Ezra, and Stormzy. Whereas the present has made makes an attempt at increasing its efforts for inclusivity in recent times, adopting gender-neutral classes final 12 months, the shortage of girls nominees within the artist of the 12 months class present that there’s nonetheless work to be completed. The “Daylight” singer took the second to acknowledge the ladies who have been snubbed for the award.
“I am actually, actually grateful for this and I am very conscious of my privilege up right here tonight.”
“I am actually, actually grateful for this and I am very conscious of my privilege up right here tonight,” Kinds stated. “So this award is for Rina [Sawayama], Charli [XCX], Florence [Welch], Mabel [Hill], and Becky [Hill]. Thanks a lot!”
Per week earlier, on the Grammys in Los Angeles, Kinds accepted the award for album of the 12 months, making him the thirty third white man to take residence the title within the present’s 65-year historical past. On stage, Kinds commented, “this does not occur to individuals like me fairly often,” sparking controversy amongst followers on social media. Whereas some followers directed their anger and confusion at Kinds, award exhibits have a protracted historical past of excluding girls nominees.
Throughout his Brits speech, Kinds additionally thanked his “understanding, affected person, loving household,” and his mother “for signing me up for ‘X Issue’ with out telling me. I actually would not be right here with out you.” Earlier than concluding his speech, Kinds prolonged his because of Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayne Malik, his authentic One Route household. “I would not be right here with out you both. Thanks a lot.”
Following his speech, Kinds took a shot on stage with host Mo Gilligan, a convention he started in 2020 when he took a shot with host Jack Whitehall. Award in hand, Kinds headed again to the viewers, the place he shared a candy embrace together with his sister, Gemma.
See clips of the “Love of My Life” singer’s acceptance speech forward.
