Shane Boose, known professionally as sombr, is set to perform at the 2026 BRIT Awards, adding to an already impressive lineup for the event. The announcement, made Thursday, February 19, confirms the 20-year-aged singer-songwriter’s participation in the ceremony, which will be held at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena on February 28. This year’s BRIT Awards mark a historic shift, as it’s the first time the awards show will take place outside of London in its 50-year history.
The rising artist is likewise nominated for two awards: International Artist of the Year and International Song of the Year for his single, ‘Undressed.’ sombr expressed his excitement about the performance, stating, “I’m so honoured to be performing at the iconic BRIT Awards. I am so thankful to everyone who has supported me this past year. I love the UK and all the British people, it’s my second home!”
A Breakthrough Year for sombr
sombr’s ascent in the music industry has been rapid. His debut record, ‘I Barely Realize Her,’ released in August, peaked at Number 10 on the Albums Chart. Three singles from the album also broke into the Top 10 of the Singles Chart, solidifying his position as a promising new talent. The album itself received a four-star review from NME, which described it as “an album driven by heartache” and “a gloriously dynamic record that’s less about misery and more about catharsis. It’s sad boy indie with a smirk.”
Joining a Star-Studded Lineup
sombr joins a diverse and highly anticipated roster of performers at the 2026 BRIT Awards. Harry Styles, Olivia Dean, HUNTR/X’s EJAE, Audrey Nuna and REI AMI, Wolf Alice, Mark Ronson, Alex Warren and Rosalía are also scheduled to take the stage. Mark Ronson will also be honored with the Outstanding Contribution to Music award at the ceremony, while Noel Gallagher is set to receive the Songwriter Of The Year award.
The event will be hosted by Jack Whitehall for the sixth consecutive year. This year’s BRITs trophy, designed by Matthew Williamson, draws inspiration from the city of Manchester, reflecting the awards’ new location. Jacob Alon was previously announced as the winner of the 2026 BRITs Critics’ Choice Award.
A Historic Move to Manchester
The decision to move the BRIT Awards to Manchester represents a significant change for the long-running event. For five decades, the awards show has been a fixture in London, but organizers cited a desire to bring the event to a wider audience and showcase the vibrant music scene outside the capital. The show will be broadcast on ITV1 in the UK and shared worldwide on YouTube.
sombr is currently on a UK and European tour in support of ‘I Barely Know Her,’ with remaining tickets available through Ticketmaster.
The 2026 BRIT Awards are shaping up to be a landmark event, celebrating musical talent and marking a new chapter for the awards show. Viewers can expect to see the full list of nominees and further updates on the event’s official website.
The BRIT Awards will take place on Saturday, February 28, at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester. Further details regarding the broadcast and potential after-show events are expected to be released in the coming days.
