Warner Chappell Music is celebrating big wins at the prestigious Ivor Novello Awards which were announced today. Chappell songwriters Dave and Fraser T. Smith won Best Contemporary Song for ‘Black’, while Rag’n’Bone Man was awarded Most Performed Work for his song ‘Giant’ with Calvin Harris.
‘Black’ was the first song released from Dave’s number one album Psychodrama. The powerful and poignant song details the struggles faced by Black people in today’s society, while also offering celebratory and hopeful lines. Earlier this year, Dave and Fraser T. Smith performed the song at the BRIT Awards, creating one of the most talked about and emotive performances the ceremony has ever seen.
Amber Davis, Head of A&R, Warner Chappell Music, said: “Dave and Fraser created a beautiful and important piece of music that will be talked about for a long time to come. I’m so pleased that this song has been recognised on a stage as important as the Ivors. Both of them put such care and attention into their songwriting, so it’s great to see it acknowledged by their peers.”
‘Giant’ by Rag’n’Bone Man and Calvin Harris became a worldwide hit last year – topping the charts in 11 countries. The song has also gone 2x platinum in the UK and Poland, while going platinum in Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy and Mexico.
Amber Davis said: “’Giant’ sees Rory at his best – showcasing his incredible voice and his amazing songwriting ability. The track became an undeniable hit last year and it still feels fresh to this day. I’m delighted that Rory’s won his first Ivor.”
“It’s always a great feeling when your songwriters win awards, but in the publishing world the Ivors feel extra special. I’d like to say congratulations to Dave, Fraser, Rory and all our writers that were nominated and a thank you to everyone at Warner Chappell for their hard work.”
The Ivor Novello Awards celebrate, honour and reward excellence in songwriting and composing. They were created by the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA) in 1956. The award winners are decided by juries made up entirely of composers and songwriters.
