The evening’s top honor, Producer of the Year, was awarded to Zach Nahome. His prolific year reached a crescendo with Olivia Dean’s The Art of Loving, which secured Album of the Year. The project’s success extended to the technical team, with Charlie Holmes winning Mix Engineer of the Year and Simon Francis recognized for his mastering work.
Further cementing the role of creative architects, Steph Marziano was named Writer-Producer of the Year, while Barry Can’t Swim (Joshua Spence Mainnie) took home Self-Producing Artist of the Year, highlighting the trend of artists maintaining total control over their sonic identity.
The MPG placed a heavy emphasis on the physical spaces where magic happens. Decoy Studios was named Large Commercial Studio of the Year, and Snap! Studios earned the title for Small Commercial Studio of the Year. MPG Executive Director Matt Taylor reminded attendees that studios are the industry’s “beating heart,” noting that the entire musical ecosystem depends on these creative sanctuaries.
The technical categories showcased both legends and rising stars:
Recording Engineer of the Year: Ricky Damian
Mastering Engineer of the Year: Natalie Bibby
Atmos Mixer of the Year: Andrew Scheps
Breakthrough Talent: Oli Barton-Wood (Producer) and Evie Clark-Yospa (Engineer)
Legacy and Impact
The ceremony also paid tribute to icons. Mark “Spike” Stent received the Icon Award, while The 1975 were honored for their Outstanding Contribution to UK Music. In a nod to innovation, the Pioneer Award went to the legendary BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Finally, the newly established Impact Award was presented to War Child for their Help(2) album, proving that the technical community’s influence extends far beyond the control room.
