Sam Fender has won the 2025 Mercury Prize for his album *People Watching*, cementing his status as one of Britain’s top songwriters of the decade. The awards ceremony took place in Newcastle, marking the first time it was held outside London. Fender beat out strong competition from nominees like FKA twigs, Pulp, Wolf Alice, and Fontaines D.C.
Following his win, Fender announced an expanded deluxe edition of *People Watching*, set to release on December 5 through Polydor Records. This new version will include eight additional tracks on both CD and vinyl. It features four songs from his limited edition Record Store Day EP, *Me and The Dog* — “I’m Always On Stage,” “Me and The Dog,” “Tyrants,” and “Empty Spaces.” It also includes “Rein Me In,” featuring Olivia Dean, and three brand-new songs: “Fortuna’s Wheel,” “The Treadmill,” and “Talk To You,” which features Elton John.
Fender described “Talk To You” as a song about the end of a long relationship, filled with regret and lessons learned. He said, “I thought I need a really good pianist, and who better than Elton John?” Elton shared his excitement about working with Sam, saying, “It was so much fun playing it for him. I truly love Sam.”
Released in February 2025, *People Watching* became the fastest-selling album by a British solo artist since spring 2022, selling over 100,000 copies in its first week. The album topped the UK Albums Chart and made the top ten in several countries. Fender is currently on a world tour, with the North American leg running through October. Check out “Talk To You” featuring Elton John now!
