James Blake wins Mercury Prize 2013

James Blake won the coveted Mercury Prize for his album Overgrown.

The classically trained pianist turned electronic artist pulled off a shock by beating David Bowie and the Arctic Monkeys to win the £20,000 Barclaycard Mercury Prize at London’s Roundhouse last night.

Speaking on stage after collecting his trophy, Blake said: “Well, I lost a bet… on the other hand, I should thank a couple of people.

“Thank you to my parents for showing me the importance of being independent.”

Blake, who was also nominated in 2011 for his self-titled debut album, added: “It felt different this year. It’s less nerve-wracking and much less daunting. I feel like I have the event a bit more sussed out.

“I’ve got no idea why the judges nominated my record. If I could tell you that I’d be able to write another one!”

Asked what he will spend his £20,000 on, he joked: “I’m going to spend the money on a crazy golf course for my front garden. I’m not even a fan. The obstacles will be all the other artists in the competition just holding miniature golf clubs. Either way I’ll be getting drunk tonight!”