Ezra Collective have been crowned the winner of the 2023 Mercury Prize for their album ‘Where I’m Meant To Be’.
Ezra Collective fought off stiff competition from Arctic Monkeys, Fred Again…, J Hus, Jessie Ware, Jockstrap, Lankum, Loyle Carner, Olivia Dean, Raye, Shygirl and Young Fathers to take home the prestigious gong for a British or Irish album.
Of the album, judge Jamz Supernova, said ‘Where I’m Meant to Be’ was an “uplifting and timely record that represents the very best of where we are now in 2023”.
Accepting the award, drummer Femi Koleoso said the group “represents something very special because we met in a youth club”.
“This moment that we’re celebrating right here is testament to good, special people putting time and effort into young people to play music,” he continued.
“This is not just a result for Ezra Collective, or for UK jazz, but this is a special moment for every single organisation across the country, ploughing efforts and time into young people playing music.”
It’s the first time a jazz group has taken home the £25,000 album prize.
READ MORE: An Ezra Collective Mercury Prize win is a win for youth futures
