Ed Sheeran leads the way at Brit Award nominations

As the Brit nominations are announced, fans expect beer-swigging, television-throwing and award-hurling stars to battle it out for the prize.

But this year, it’s shy boy Ed Sheeran who is ruling,  having been recognised in four categories – which is actually more nods than he’s had hit singles.

The singer/songwriter, 20, is up for Best Male, Best Breakthrough, Best Single for The A Team, and Best Album for debut record, entitled +.

The rising star, born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, is even ahead of Jessie J.

The Do It Like A Dude star is trailing behind with three categories; including Best Female, Best Breakthrough and Best single for Price Tag.

 

Sheeran told the BBC he was ‘ecstatic, really happy and pleased’ at the launch party this afternoon at the Savoy Hotel in London.

He added: ‘I think any artist would really want to win the Best Album Award – but to be honest I think Adele will win that one.’

The redhead chart-topper found fame last summer when his debut single The A Team reached No3.

Sheeran’s rise to fame is akin to something from a rags-to-riches movie.

After relentless touring in 2009, where he reportedly played 312 gigs, he eventually supported Starz In Their Eyes singer Just Jack on tour.

Last February, the opportunist posted a video through SB.TV, which led to Example inviting him to support him on the road.

Several months later, he flew to Los Angeles on a wing and a prayer, performing at open mic nights, before Jamie Foxx spotted him.

The Hollywood actor then invited him to stay at his house and record for the rest of his stay.

But the icing on the cake came when Harry Potter star Rupert Grint agreed to star in the Lego House video; on the premise they are doppelgangers.

The song peaked at No5 in the UK charts.

Ed said: ‘When I was coming up with ideas for the Lego House video, I knew that I wanted Rupert to be in it.

‘I’ve grown up with the Potter films and have massive respect for him as an actor. This video is going to be brilliant.’

The pair met as the You Need Me, I Don’t Need You star pulled Grint onstage during a gig at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield.

Sheeran recently celebrated his album + returning to No1, making it the first number one of 2012.

Modestly, he said: ‘It amazes me. I don’t know where these people who keep buying my music every week come from or why they keep buying it.’

The album was originally released back in September 2011.

The annual ceremony takes place at London’s O2 Arena on February 21.

BRIT AWARDS 2012 NOMINATIONS