Is it true that the Mercury Music Prize is awarded every September for the best album originating from the UK and Ireland?

The Mercury Prize, officially known as the Hyundai Mercury Prize for sponsorship reasons, is indeed awarded annually in September to celebrate the best album from the United Kingdom and Ireland. It's a pretty big deal in the music industry. The prize was established in 1992 as an alternative to the more mainstream BRIT Awards. What makes the Mercury Prize special is that it focuses on artistic merit, regardless of sales figures or genre. So, you'll often see a diverse range of nominees, from pop and rock to jazz, folk, and classical music. The judging panel consists of musicians, music critics, producers, and other industry figures. Winning the Mercury Prize can significantly boost an artist's career, bringing them wider recognition and increased album sales. So, yes, the statement is true; every September, the Mercury Prize shines a spotlight on the best of British and Irish musical talent.