Entertainment

Sam Smith leads nominees for 2015 Brit Awards

/ CBS/AP

Man of the moment Sam Smith leads the nominations for Britain's most prestigious music awards, the Brits, the U.K. equivalent to the Grammy Awards.

The soulful 22-year-old "Stay With Me" singer was nominated for five awards Thursday, including best album and best male artist.

It was a good year for male British singer-songwriters, as Ed Sheeran and George Ezra each received four nominations.

British rock duo Royal Blood is up for three awards, and female British contenders include FKA Twigs and Ella Henderson.

Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Sia, St. Vincent and Lana Del Rey are up for international female solo artist. Beck, Hozier, Jack White, John Legend and Pharrell Williams are in the running for international male solo artist.

The winners will be announced during a concert-style ceremony at London's 02 Arena on Feb. 25.

Most winners are decided by a ballot of music-industry members, with some chosen by public vote.

Go here to check out the list of nominees.

First published on January 15, 2015 / 4:55 PM EST

© 2015 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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