Bruno Mars and Skepta to perform at the Brit Awards

  • Published
Bruno Mars and SkeptaImage source, Getty Images

Bruno Mars and Skepta will perform at this year's Brit Awards, it's been announced.

They'll join Little Mix, The 1975, Emeli Sande and Robbie Williams on the line-up for this month's ceremony.

Skepta leads the nominees for the show, with three nods including album of the year for Konnichiwa.

He's also up for best breakthrough artist and best British male. Bruno Mars is nominated for best international male.

The Brits made the announcement on Twitter., external

Brits Chairman Jason Iley says Skepta is a homegrown talent "who's had an incredible year".

"I can't wait to see what he'll bring to the event," he says.

He says they're proud to attract international acts like Bruno Mars too.

Blues singer Rag N Bone Man was announced as the Brits Critics' Choice Award winner last December.

The musician, whose real name is Rory Graham, beat two other newcomers, Anne-Marie and Dua Lipa, to the prize.

Meanwhile, acts including Craig David, Michael Kiwanuka and Nao told Newsbeat last month that an increase in diversity at this year's Brit Awards is "a great thing".

Michael Kiwanuka

Skepta is up against Kano, Craig David, Michael Kiwanuka and David Bowie for best male and Lianne La Havas is nominated alongside Emeli Sande, Ellie Goulding, Anohni and Nao for best female.

There was controversy in 2016, with white acts dominating the awards and many stars openly criticising the event.

Organisers announced a shake-up, with more people from ethnic minorities put on the Brits panel.

The awards are being hosted by Dermot O'Leary and Emma Willis this year, after Michael Buble pulled out.

He's focussing on looking after his son, who has cancer.

The ceremony will take place at The O2 on the 22 February.

Find us on Instagram at BBCNewsbeat, external and follow us on Snapchat, search for bbc_newsbeat, external