Jorja Smith wins BRITs Critics' Choice award

"I cannot believe it," says Smith. "It's been an unforgettable 2017 during which I've fulfilled so many of my dreams and this is such a special way to end the year... and to be part of an all-female shortlist alongside Mabel and Stefflon Don, who've both had incredible 2017s, makes it even better! There's lots more to come in 2018 from all of us and I will do my best to make it another memorable year!"

"The Critics' Choice Award has an incredible track record of showcasing some of the most exciting up-and-coming artists for the last ten years. Jorja Smith has a huge future ahead of her and looks set to follow in the footsteps of the most successful past Critics’ Choice winners," adds BRITs Chairman/Sony Music CEO Jason Iley.

Smith is the first BRIT Awards 2018 winner, and is the first person to receive one of the specially designed statuettes from Sir Anish Kapoor.

The full BRIT Awards 2018 nominations will arrive on 13 January 2018, with more launch details to be revealed in due course.