Musician and electronic producer Kelly Lee Owens won top accolade at this year’s Welsh Music Prize for her album Inner Song.

A jury of music industry experts selected the winner from a shortlist of 12 albums by artists from across Wales.

The 33-year-old, from Bagillt, Flintshire, was not present at the event because he was on tour.

But she was “beyond the moon” when he received the award from radio presenter Huw Stephens via Zoom.

“It’s unbelievable,” he said. “As a Welsh artist, being recognized by your country, ultimately for me, is the greatest honor.

“I am so passionate about Wales and I want everyone to know where I come from.”

The awards – initiated by Stephens and music consultant John Rostron – returned in person for the eleventh ceremony and was held in Cardiff.

It featured a performance by Juice Menace to a crowd of handpicked guests.

Stephens said, “We are thrilled for Kelly Lee Owens. The judges were all blown away by this album. Kelly Lee Owens was critically acclaimed for this record and we are so delighted that she is the winner of the 2021 Welsh Music Prize.”

The 12 finalists for the 2021 awards were: Afro Cluster, The Anchoress, Carwyn Ellis & Rio 18, Datblygu, El Goodo, Gruff Rhys, Gwenifer Raymond, Kelly Lee Owens, Mace The Great, Novo Amor, Private World and Pys Melyn.