Jazz
Mark Ronson honours Amy Winehouse during emotional BRITs tribute
Mark Ronson recalled how his collaborations with the late Amy Winehouse "changed his life forever" as he collected the Outstanding Contribution to Music prize at the BRIT Awards on Saturday (28.02.26).
Mark Ronson delivered a heartfelt salute to Amy Winehouse as he accepted the Outstanding Contribution to Music award at the BRIT Awards in Manchester on Saturday (28.02.26), reflecting on the partnership that transformed his life and career.
The 50‑year‑old producer marked a poignant milestone, noting that this week marks two decades since he first met Winehouse — the encounter that led to them writing Back to Black together on the very same day.
He told the audience the moment “changed his life forever”, adding: “It means so much to me to get this award.”
Ronson used his speech to acknowledge the artists who have shaped his journey — including Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars and Dua Lipa — but made clear that his breakthrough with Amy remains the foundation of everything that followed.
He said: “The music I made with Amy is the reason any of them know who I am anyway.
“That’s why I will always treasure her voice, her talent, our bond — all of it.”
After receiving the honour from Skepta, Ronson launched into a celebratory performance of Ooh Wee with Ghostface Killah before turning to a moving tribute to Winehouse.
His rendition of Back to Black featured a clip of the late singer speaking about him, followed by Valerie alongside members of her longtime band, The Dap‑Kings.
He then shifted into Uptown Funk, before Dua Lipa surprised the crowd by joining him for Dance the Night from the Barbie soundtrack and their collaboration Electricity.
Ronson has previously described the accolade as the most “meaningful honour” of his career, saying earlier this month: “I think of the times I’ve watched artists I revere accept this same award. The idea that I’m now standing in that lineage feels impossible.”
Born in London and raised in New York, Ronson also reflected on the pride he feels in his British roots.
He said: “I left England as a kid, but this country runs through everything I’ve made.
“The UK artists I’ve worked with — their brilliance and refusal to compromise — shaped not just my work but how I understand what music should do. And more than anything, it’s the crowds here who’ve sustained me. The love has always been overwhelming. I’m beyond grateful for all of it.”
