Plan B Thinks Mercury Prize Can Help Him Change People’s Lives

Plan B is showing his softer side, as the British hip hop artist admits he hopes to change people’s lives if he wins the 2012 Barclaycard Mercury Prize.

The 28-year-old rapper has been nominated for the prestigious music award for his album, ‘Ill Manors’.

And now he has admitted he wants to become the first hip-hop artist to win the award since Dizzee Rascal in 2003 because he would love to shake up the public’s perceptions of urban music.

Plan B told the Daily Star today; "It feels great, I can't stop thinking about when Dizzee Rascal won it. It changed the way record labels were signing artists.

"The fact that UK hip-hop is on this list, and I'm the only one there, I am pleased. What is great about UK hip-hop is that it changes people's perceptions on life."

The rapper’s album accompanies his film directorial debut ‘Ill Manors’ about gang violence. It is the first ever film soundtrack to be nominated for the award and he believes his lyrics can have a stronger impact on young people’s lives than politicians’ words can.

The excited star said; "'Ill Manors' shed light on a subject that needs to be discussed in this country and what I'm doing outside of my career, with the Each One Teach One Trust which I've just set up.

"I think it's a better tool than politics. That's why books, music and film are extremely important. They can change the way we look at life.

"I grew up only listening to artists who could teach me something or enlighten me, make me more spiritual and have a better understanding of life."

The UK artist is facing stiff competition for the prize from such successful artists as Jessie Ware, Ben Howard, Lianne Le Havas and The Maccabees.

We’re holding out for Plan B…! An artist with a vision... we love.

The winner will be announced at the Roundhouse in London on November 1.