Sam Fender donated all of his Mercury Prize winnings to a British music charity.
Fender's third album, People Watching, won the Mercury Music Prize at a ceremony last month in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.
In addition to critical acclaim, the prize includes a cash prize of £25,000 ($32,000).
For some recipients, the money covers touring expenses, but Fender joined past winners such as Ms Dynamite (2002) and M People (1994) in donating the money to charity.
The charity named Music Venue Trust, which supports grassroots music spaces, was named as the beneficiary.
Fender took home the annual award for outstanding record by a British or Irish artist, beating off stiff competition from Fontaines DC, Pulp, FKA twigs, PinkPantheress and others.
The Music Venue Trust works to protect and secure the future of grassroots venues across the country. In 2024 alone, 25 music venues have closed in the UK due to rising prices and changing consumer habits.
“I wouldn’t be doing what I do today if it weren’t for all the shows I did in the Northeast and beyond when I first started,” Fender shared. “These venues are legendary, but they are struggling.”
Mark David, chief executive and founder of the Music Venue Trust, said: “This is an incredible gesture from Sam and once again demonstrates that artists absolutely understand how important grassroots music venues are to their careers and to their communities.
“We are honored to accept this donation and will ensure that every penny makes a direct difference to the campaign to keep live music in the heart of our cities.”
