YOU CAN "HOLD BACK THE RIVER," BUT
YOU CAN'T HOLD BACK THE BAY

Last night in London, Republic's James Bay (signed to Virgin EMI in the U.K.) delivered a stand-out performance of "Hold Back the River," which earned a deserved standing ovation from the BRITs audience. Watch below.

Along with praise, Bay—who was last year's Critics' Choice honoree at the same ceremony—also went home with an award for British Male Solo Artist. Word has it that he stored the trophy under his hat for safe keeping during his performance. He's a clever one, that Bay.