The Londoner is used to gracious losing faces at high-profile awards ceremonies, so was refreshed last night to hear two British chanteuses reveal their true feelings at one of the Brit Awards decisions. Laura Mvula, nominated for Best British Female Solo Artist but beaten by Ellie Goulding, was more upset than she predicted.
“I didn’t expect to win at all,” said Laura, pictured centre with Tinie Tempah. “My husband wore a polka dot shirt and asked me how I felt about winning, and I looked at what he was wearing and just said that I cared one spot out of all of them on his shirt.” That one spot was the winning spot. “When my name wasn’t called out, I was disappointed. I was surprised with myself.”
Mvula’s pal Lianne La Havas, pictured left, who recently hosted a Prince gig in her living room, had a less muted reaction at the Belvedere event. “I have been friends with Laura for years and it’s been great to watch her reach the big time,” she said, “but sometimes awards are just given for international sales. I like Ellie Goulding, but she won Best British Female because her album has sold. Laura should have won that award.”
