But at Tuesday night’s 30th anniversary event, the show was stolen by an American as Lady Gaga took home three awards, more than any other artist.
The flamboyant artist — born Stefani Germanotta — was named best international female solo artist, best international breakthrough act and best international album for “The Fame”.
And while the night may have been billed as the “battle of the babes” by many, with female artists giving a strong showing in the nominations, there was also a distinctly masculine feel to the honours, with rock band Kasabian and boy band JLS all taking home awards.
Leicester rockers Kasabian won best British band, while JLS picked up breakthrough act.
Florence and the Machine won best British album for “Lungs” and rapper Dizzee Rascal was named the best British male solo artist.
At the glittering event hosted by comedian Peter Kay in London’s Earl’s Court, all eyes were on the American exhibitionist, hotly tipped by bookies since winning two Grammys last month.
After scoring four number ones with her debut album, Gaga was lauded as the new queen of pop with the industry queuing to lay accolades at her feet.
Past outlandish displays from the American have included full facial masks, exploding bras and pyrotechnics. Tuesday night’s performance was met with rapturous applause.
Lily Allen also overcame a disappointing night back in 2007, when she was nominated for four awards, but won none. Despite stiff competition from Florence Welch, frontwoman for Florence and the Machine, and newcomer Pixie Lott, she took home the award for British female solo act. Her second album It’s Not Me, It’s You came out in February last year, after her debut Alright Still sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide.
There was joy for Dizzee Rascal, credited with bring grime music to the mainstream, after he took home the award for best British male solo artist.
The crowning glory of the evening, the award for outstanding contribution, went to Brits darling Robbie Williams.
The Guardian