Ezra Collective are among this year’s winners at the O2 Silver Clef Awards.
The jazz quintet took home the Contemporary Music Award, sponsored by PPL.
The annual awards ceremony is presented by the charity Nordoff Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, which provides music therapy to those with life-limiting illness, disability and social isolation.
“The Ezra Collective first got together when we met in a youth club, so we really understand the value music has when it’s put into the hands of young people,” said bandleader and drummer Femi Koleoso.
“Music therapy is an important part of this, as the work that Nordoff and Robbins does with children can change lives. It’s a really beautiful thing that we’re going to be supporting this work. Thanks to everyone that’s helped us get to where we are; this Contemporary Music Award means so much to us.”
Earlier this year Ezra Collective won a MOBO Award for Best Jazz Act. Last year the group won the Mercury Prize for their second album Where I’m Meant to Be, becoming the first ever jazz act to bag the award. Ezra Collective’s new album, Dance, No One’s Watching, is released on September 27.
Other winners at this year’s Silver Clefs include AC/DC for the Legend Award, Chaka Khan for the Global Impact prize, and Cat Burns for Best New Music. View the full list of winners here.
Elsewhere, musician and former Dire Straits frontman Mark Knopfler picked up the Music Icon award in recognition of his 60-year career. “One of the best parts of being an artist is meeting people who have been touched by your music,” he said.
“I think we have all appreciated the power of music in our own lives from time to time. Nordoff and Robbins believes in sharing the value of music with everyone who needs it – that’s why I’m a longtime supporter and will continue to help raise funds so Nordoff and Robbins’ music therapists can continue their vital work.”
