Arctic Monkeys were the big winners at last nights Brit Awards winning both best group and best album for the third time.
Despite making their disdain for the awards overtly clear in the past, the Sheffield band opened the event at London’s O2 Arena. Ellie Goulding won best British female, while pop act One Direction were honoured for their global success for the second year running.
David Bowie cemented his musical comeback by winning British Male Solo Artist. Kate Moss collected Bowie’s prize and read a speech on his behalf urging Scottish voters to reject independence.
“I’m completely delighted to have a Brit for being the best male – but I am, aren’t I Kate? Yes. I think it’s a great way to end the day. Thank you very, very much and Scotland stay with us,” were his words – as delivered by Moss.
Whilst presenting the live ITV show for the final time James Corden kissed Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw and called people with double-barrelled surnames “horse-faced inbreds” as he went “off the leash” to whip up some spontaneous fun.
The combined US star wattage of Beyoncé, Katy Perry, Pharrell Williams and Bruno Mars was imported from the Grammys to add lustre to the live performances.
Overnight figures show an average 4.2 million viewers watched the ceremony live on ITV – the lowest audience since at least 1999.
Last year’s show was watched by 6.5 million viewers.
Have televised award shows had their day?
See the full list of winners below
British Male Solo Artist – David Bowie
British Female Solo Artist – Ellie Goulding
British Group – Arctic Monkeys
British Breakthrough Act – Bastille
British Single – “Waiting All Night” by Rudimental ft. Ella Eyre
British Album Of The Year – AM by Arctic Monkeys
Best Video – One Direction
International Male Solo Artist – Bruno Mars
International Female Solo Artist – Lorde
International Group – Daft Punk
Global Success – One Direction
Critics’ Choice – Sam Smith
British Producer Of The Year – Flood & Alan Moulder