BRITs Critics' Choice Award: Stefflon Don, Jorja Smith and Mabel form shortlist for 2018

Winner will be presented with the prize on 4 December

Jorja Smith, Mabel and Stefflon Don make up the shortlist for the BRITs Critics' Choice Award for 2018

The BRITs critics' choice shortlist has been announced as Jorja Smith, Mabel and Stefflon Don.

Previous winners have included Adele, Sam Smith, and Rag 'N' Bone Man, all of whom have gone onto enjoy critical and commercial success.

The award aims to recognise the "future stars of British recording talent". The top three are chosen by a team of experts including music editors, critics, radio DJs and execs.

Following criticism over the past few years that the awards have not done enough to reflect diversity in British music, the 10th year of the Critics' Choice award is one of its progressive yet, with the entire shortlist comprised of female artists.

Jorja Smith said of the news: "Such an honour to be one of the @BRITs Critics Choice nominees for 2018! 2017 has been a surreal year and I have so much coming for 2018. Thank you to my team and all who have supported me from the beginning."

Mabel said: "I'm one of the @BRITs Critics Choice nominees for 2018!!!! It's a dream come true to be up for this amazing award... 2017 was big but next year is doing to be even better! Love to the crew and to everyone that's been supporting since day one because you made all of this possible."

The winner of the Critics' Choice award will be presented with the prize - which was designed by Anish Kapoor -during a ceremony on 4 December.

The BRIT Awards 2018 take place on 21 February at the O2 Arena in London.

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