Organisers of the Brit Awards have announced a rule change after attracting criticism over diversity.
The annual music show, which honours the best in the British and international music industry, came under fire in January 2023 when no women were shortlisted for the best artist prize. This replaced the gendered best male and female categories two years ago.
The winner of the best artist prize in 2023, Harry Styles, dedicated the trophy to underappreciated performers such as Charli XCX.
What's changing at the Brit Awards?
The Brits will now increase the number of best artist prize nominees from five to 10.
The change is intended to produce a more equitable field.
A new award for the greatest R&B act will also be introduced.
R&B musicians used to compete in a combined best pop/R&B category, which was inevitably won by stars such as Dua Lipa and Styles.
To ensure that musicians who might have been overlooked in 2023 can still qualify, the inaugural best R&B prize will have a 24-month eligibility period instead of the customary 12-month one.
The best international artist category will also be incorporated into the expanded artist of the year shortlist.
Dr Jo Twist, CEO of organisers the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), said the changes followed an annual review.
She told the BBC: "Obviously we were disappointed that no women were nominated for artist of the year in 2023.
"So we reached out to people in the industry and expert groups to understand how we can improve this for this year, to make the Brits inclusive and reflective."
"This year is looking very positive" for female artists and R&B performers, she continued, saying that artists like PinkPantheress, Raye, Mahalia, and Dua Lipa are all eligible in many categories.
Next year's Brit Awards will be held at London's O2 Arena on Saturday, March 2, 2024. ITV will broadcast the ceremony live.
The Brit Awards, also known as the Brits, were first held in 1977, making them one of the longest-running music awards ceremonies in the world. The inaugural event took place at the Wembley Conference Centre in London.
