American band the Scissor Sisters led the way at Wednesday’s Brit Awards with three prizes, while Scottish rockers Franz Ferdinand, English group Keane and Devon teenager Joss Stone took two each.
The Scissor Sisters won honors in the international categories of the United Kingdom’s top annual recording prizes as breakthrough act and group, as well as best album for their self-titled release, which was the top seller in the United Kingdom last year.
Franz Ferdinand picked up awards in the British categories for best group and rock act. Keane won as best British breakthrough act and beat out Franz Ferdinand for the top local prize, best British album, for their “Hopes and Fears” release.
Stone beat heavily favored Jamelia as best British solo artist and urban act and brought down the house with a gospel-flavored version of “Right to be Wrong.”
The remaining awards were spread evenly, with Eminem named best male solo artist and Gwen Stefani best female solo artist in the international section. Eminem sent a tape of thanks, but Stefani was on hand to accept her prize and perform her track “What You Waiting For?”
Mike Skinner of the Streets was named best British solo artist, with Muse winning the prize for British live act and McFly for British pop act.
Will Young’s “Your Game” was named top British single, and Robbie William’s “Angels” won a popularity contest as favorite song of the past 25 years. Bob Geldof picked up a lifetime achievement award.
Other artists performing included Franz Ferdinand, Daniel and Natasha Bedingfield, the Streets and Snoop Dogg & Pharrell Williams.