Clean Bandit at BRITs nominations
Clean Bandit think it's surprising that the BRIT Awards are so dominated by male artists this year.
With Sam Smith leading the nominations with five nods, Ed Sheeran and George Ezra also both have four nominations.
No female artist is in line to win the MasterCard British Album of the Year prize, and the dance group are shocked at the lack of ladies.
Speaking last night at the nominations announcement in London, Grace Chatto of the group commented: "I was kind of surprised because there have been big female singers this year. I wonder why it is. I don't think it's because they're men, is it?"
Bandmate Milan Neil Amin-Smith added: "Well, I think it has been the year of the white man, which is quite depressing isn't it?
"It seems a bit weird and a problem."
Grace went on to say that she thinks the trend could be because of the cynical nature of music, and the time of Emeli Sande and Adele having passed for now.
"Women have ruled for quite a while. It's the men's turn."
Clean Bandit are up themselves for two BRITs, and despite their objections to the male-dominated competition they're thrilled to have been recognised.
Milan went on to say: It feels amazing to be nominated, we're over the moon, I've just been bouncing about all day. I can't stop giggling about it."
The BRIT Awards with MasterCard - hosted by Ant & Dec - take place at The O2 in London on February 25 and will feature performances from Taylor Swift, Paloma Faith and Ed as well as many others.
MasterCard is in its 17th year of sponsoring the BRIT Awards and as part of its 2015 BRITs campaign MasterCard is working with a variety of artists to organise Priceless Surprises, giving cardholders unique opportunities to get closer to the artists they love. Visit PricelessSurprises.co.uk for more information on how to get involved.
Tagged in Ed Sheeran Clean Bandit Sam Smith