Jessie J up for Brits Critics' award

Jessie J has been announced as one of three acts shortlisted for this year's Critics' prize at the Brit Awards.

The singer, who released her debut single 'Do It Like A Dude' last month, has been nominated for the prestigious award, which recognises new acts that are tipped by music critics for mainstream success.

Essex-born Jessie J - real name Jessica Cornish - is nominated alongside indie band The Vaccines and electro singer James Blake.

Ben Knowles, Music Director of War Child, which is sponsoring this year's award, said: "The Critics' Choice Awards celebrates the healthy future of British music - something we are very proud to be associated with.

"War Child are delighted to be aligning with the Brits' fantastic charitable endeavours and re-affirming the amazing power of music to change the lives of young people, both in this country and in the world’s harshest war zones.”

For the first time since the prize was introduced, the winner will be announced along with second and third place on the same day. Voting for the 2011 awards closes on December 15.

This year's Brit Awards will be held at London's O2 Arena on February 15, from where it will be broadcast live on ITV1.

Acts confirmed to perform at the event so far include Take That and Plan B.