Singers Jamie T and Amy Winehouse and quintet Basquiat Strings will battle it out for the prestigious Mercury Music Prize tonight.

Wimbledon rapper Jamie's debut album Panic Prevention was shortlisted against former Croydon student Amy's Back to Black for the album of the year award.

And Basquiat Strings, founded by Twickenham musician Ben Davis, are also up for the accolade for their debut album.

Smokey-voiced Amy has already won a host of gongs this year, including an Ivor Novello award and a Mojo award for her hit single Rehab.

The 23-year-old turned up to the posh bash at London's Grosvenor House, despite her recent troubles, and the bookies have tipped her as the favourite to win.

She and hubby Blake Fielder-Civil, 25, jetted into Gatwick airport yesterday after holidaying in St Lucia.

Jamie T beat the likes of music heavyweights Jarvis Cocker and Radiohead's Thom Yorke to win the Best Solo Artist title at the NME Awards earlier this year.

The 20-year-old shortened his full name Jamie Treays - because his fans had difficulty pronouncing his surname.

Although Basquiat Strings aren't particularly optimistic about winning, they have enjoyed the publicity the nomination has given them.

"This whole month and a half has been amazing - we have had agents wanting to take us on and lots of support from distribution companies," said Ben.

Commenting on this year's shortlist the chairman of judges, Simon Frith, said: "This year's Nationwide Mercury Prize shortlist celebrates a remarkable range of artists who use their albums to tell stories, shape moods, explore emotions and lift the spirits.

"The list marks the emergence of a wealth of eclectic talent making music with great energy, excitement and personality."