BRITs 2009 Winners And Losers?

So Duffy is this year's best British Female Solo Artist, Breakthrough Act and gave us the Best Album. Nothing for her fellow '2008 One To Watch' Adele and nothing for 'Britain's biggest band in the world' Coldplay. Hmmm...

I suppose Chris Martin and band won't be that bothered while the Grammys are still flying in their direction and they see the royalty cheques from Viva La Vida! And haven't they got a fair few old Brit awards gathering dust on their mantlepiece already? Those of us millions of Brits who know how great Coldplay are will continue to vote with our worthless pound sterling and demonstrate our appreciation at their brilliant live shows. As a fellow West Country lad, I applaud their hardwork, talent and ambition, and I'd love to reach and inspire as many people across the globe with my own music. I saw Chris Martin and Will Champion play an acoustic set in a small tent at the Pilton party, before Parachutes became a hit, then stood watching Coldplay with tens of thousands up the road at Glasto a few years later. They were awe-inspiring at both gigs.

Yes, Duffy is fabulous as well but in a different way. I'm glad she received three well-deserved BRIT awards and everyone who's helped her along the way should be pleased with their work. I'd be pleased with that first album campaign! That said, Duffy the songwriter and performer has yet to prove her greatness. Rockferry was a great album but that perilous second album looms and where will she be in five albums time? How will she follow Rockferry?

Elbow on the other hand can sleep well at night after working their arses off, being incredibly creative and tenacious, and finally seeing some mainstream recognition that's certainly well-earned. But are they really the Best British Band? I suppose you can't get any more British than championing the underdog and snubbing the commercially successful.

Paul Weller's the Best British Male Solo Artist (sadly I was left off the nominees list this year ;)) and Iron Maiden is the Best British Live Act? In a world of instant pop 'idols' that rise sharply and fall even sharper, it's nice to see the old guard getting the dues. Maybe some Brits for Billy Bragg and Status Quo next year?!