Announcing the first wave of winners for the O2 Silver Clef Awards 2025
Legendary artists David Gilmour, IDLES, Rick Astley and Soul II Soul to be honoured for their contributions to music and live performance at this year’s O2 Silver Clef Awards.
Celebrating extraordinary contributions to music
We’re delighted to announce the first wave of winners for this year’s O2 Silver Clef Awards. The prestigious annual music award ceremony is held every year in July. This year’s event will held at London’s JW Marriott Grosvenor House on Wednesday 2 July, 6pm.
- David Gilmour will receive the coveted O2 Silver Clef Award
- IDLES are named Best Live Act sponsored by Uber Eats Music Hall
- Rick Astley will be honoured with the Outstanding Achievement in Music Award sponsored by Tysers Live
- Soul II Soul will receive the Innovation in Music Award
Returning as the headline sponsor for the 24th consecutive year, O2 continues its long-standing support of the awards. The winners will be celebrated at an exclusive awards evening hosted by beloved broadcaster Edith Bowman on Wednesday 2nd July 2025. They’ll join music industry leaders, artists and supporters for a night dedicated to the power of music. The event boasts the signature blue carpet welcome that brings together celebrities and industry icons, this year once again hosted by the award-winning Carrie and David Grant. There will also be live auctions offering unique memorabilia and experiences to help raise as much money as possible on the night for our vital music therapy work.
David Gilmour – O2 Silver Clef Award
The legendary guitarist, vocalist and lyricist will receive the O2 Silver Clef Award, which celebrates outstanding contributions to music. Previous winners of the prestigious award include David Bowie, Stormzy, Annie Lennox, Ed Sheeran, The Rolling Stones, Kylie Minogue and many more. Gilmour’s timeless influence on the global music scene and dedication to innovation make him a fitting addition to this esteemed list.
David Gilmour said: “It’s such an honour to receive the O2 Silver Clef Award. Music speaks its own language and it’s inspiring to see Nordoff and Robbins using it to make a real difference to people’s lives. What they do reminds us of music’s ability to reach across boundaries and bring people together.”
Rick Astley – Outstanding Achievement in Music, sponsored by Tysers Live
With a career spanning decades, Rick Astley is being honoured with the Outstanding Achievement in Music Award, sponsored by Tysers Live. Previous winners include iconic artists such as Blondie, Patti Smith and Robert Plant, all celebrated for their lasting contributions to music. Astley’s enduring hits, including the global sensation “Never Gonna Give You Up,” and his ability to reinvent himself for new generations, highlight his continued relevance and influence in the music industry.
Rick Astley said: “To be recognised with the Outstanding Achievement in Music Award is a big moment for me. Music gives us all an opportunity to connect, and I’ve been fortunate to share that connection with so many people over the years. Knowing that Nordoff and Robbins uses music to create real change for those who need it most makes this award feel even more special. I’m proud to support their incredible work.”
IDLES – Best Live Act, sponsored by Uber Eats Music Hall
Known for their explosive and raw live performances, IDLES will be awarded Best Live Act, sponsored by Uber Eats Music Hall. This award celebrates artists whose live shows captivate audiences and create unforgettable moments, with previous winners including Harry Styles and Arctic Monkeys. IDLES’ high-energy, uncompromising approach to live music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, affirming their place among the most dynamic performers of our time.
Joe Talbot, IDLES, said: “Performing live is at the core of what we do. It’s where everything comes together – the energy, the connection, and the raw emotion. To be recognised by Nordoff and Robbins, who use music in such a powerful way to help others, is something we deeply appreciate. We’re grateful to be part of this year’s awards.”
Soul II Soul – Innovation in Music Award
Trailblazers in genre-defying sound, Soul II Soul will receive the Innovation in Music Award, recognising their pioneering contributions to global music culture. This award honours artists who redefine musical boundaries, with past recipients including Björk and Rudimental. From their groundbreaking hits like “Back to Life” to their influence on global R&B and soul movements, Soul II Soul’s work exemplifies innovation and their lasting cultural impact on the music world.
Jazzie B, Soul II Soul, said: “Pushing boundaries and creating something that lasts has always been our aim, so this award feels very special. Nordoff and Robbins shows how music can go even further – breaking down barriers and supporting people in ways few other things can. It’s an honour to support their vital work.”
About the O2 Silver Clef Awards
First held in 1976, the O2 Silver Clef Awards is our largest annual fundraising event, raising over £13.5 million across its 49-year history. Last year’s ceremony raised over £760,000, enough to pay for over 9,000 music therapy sessions. blur took home the headline O2 Silver Clef Award alongside other winners including The 1975, Jessie Ware, Jacob Collier, Young Fathers, Ezra Collective, Cat Burns, AC/DC, Mark Knopfler, Chaka Khan, Loyle Carner and Texas.
Supported by long-standing partners like O2, returning as headline sponsor for the 24th year, the O2 Silver Clef Awards raise crucial funds to sustain our essential work.
Gareth Griffiths, Director, Partnerships & Sponsorship, Virgin Media O2 said: “The O2 Silver Clef Awards are a highlight of the year for us, shining a spotlight on both music’s ability to inspire and Nordoff and Robbins’ life-changing work. We’re proud to champion this hugely worthy cause and celebrate artists who’ve made a lasting impact on the world of music.”
Sandra Schembri, CEO, Nordoff and Robbins said: “We’re so honoured to have such iconic artists lined up to win at this year’s O2 Silver Clef Awards. With their support, and the support of our peers in the music industry, we can tackle the triple threat we face of growing demand, increasing costs and decreasing donations head on. It costs over £8 million a year to run our charity and we urgently need to raise more funds to help us in our mission of providing vital music therapy to those who need it the most across the UK.
“Whether it’s unlocking memories for someone with dementia, or giving someone with autism or experiencing mental health challenges the space and freedom to express themselves, music therapy is truly transformative. As we approach the 50th year of the O2 Silver Clef Awards, the financial support we receive through this spectacular event remains critically important to us, and so we thank the artists and industry figures for their kindness and generosity in helping to make it happen.”
O2 Silver Clef Awards 2025 Table Pricing
All tickets include drinks reception with canapes, dinner and awards show. The event will start at 6pm, finishing at 11.30pm.
- Platinum table: £6,000
- Gold table: £4,500
- Silver table: £3,000