Warner/Chappell chairman and CEO Jon Platt has celebrated the “diversity of British songwriting, artistry and music” following victories at the Ivor Novello Awards.
In the seven nominated categories, Warner/Chappell was the publisher or had a share of three winners: Question Time by Dave (Best Contemporary Song), Gang Signs & Prayer by Stormzy (Album Award) and Elbow’s Magnificent (She Says), which was named Best Song Musically & Lyrically and was the third Ivor for the band.
Platt said: “Gang Signs & Prayer is songwriting at its finest, and this latest award is further recognition of Stormzy’s creative vision and cultural impact. With the outstanding talents of Dave and Elbow also being recognised, this is another great moment celebrating the diversity of British songwriting, artistry and music.
Mike Smith, MD of WCM UK, added: “It’s been a great day for our songwriters at the Ivor Novello Awards. Stormzy’s collection of accolades is a testament to his creative genius. And to see Dave and Elbow honoured by their peers as well made it a truly special event.”
Sony/ATV also had big wins at the Ivors, including Ed Sheeran as co-writer of Shape Of You with Johnny McDaid and Steve Mac (PRS For Music Most Performed Work). The publishing split for Shape Of You includes Rokstone Music - Universal Music Publishing and Spirit B-Unique - Polar Patrol.
Sheeran also won the special award for Songwriter Of The Year, one of several at the ceremony that were not contested by a shortlist of songwriters.
Sony/ATV also had an interest (with Faber Music) in Best Television Soundtrack winner The Miniaturist composed by Dan Jones. Beggars Music had Ivors success with Mica Levi winning Best Original Film Score for Jackie.
Kobalt was a winner thanks to Fraser T Smith’s co-writing credit for Question Time with Dave. Smith also has co-writing credits on Stormzy’s album, though the grime star joked that he didn’t pass the threshold for official Ivors recognition.
“I love you so much Fraser, you know I couldn’t do this without you,” said Stormzy. “You should be here with me here right now but you had like 13%.”
The Best Original Video Game Score went to composers Joris de Man, Joe Henson and Alexis Smith for Horizon Zero Dawn. The developer is Guerilla Games and the publisher is Sony Computer Entertainment.
Publishers were also represented in the various special awards, with Cathy Dennis acknowledging the support of Concord.
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