Daijiworld Media Network - London
London, Dec 2: BBC Radio 1 has unveiled its Sound of 2026 shortlist, setting the stage for a year where cutting-edge pop meets guitar-driven anthems. The annual list, known for predicting global stars, features ten rising artistes tipped to dominate the music landscape in the coming year.
Leading the nominations is US singer-songwriter Sombr, whose dreamy harmonies and pop-rock sensibilities have already placed multiple singles in the UK Top 10. Also making the cut are Australian skate-rock duo Royel Otis, New York post-punk innovators Geese, and fast-rising pop artistes Chloe Qisha, Skye Newman and Alessi Rose, who recently toured with Dua Lipa.
The shortlist was compiled through votes from over 170 industry experts and artistes, including Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa, Olivia Dean, Yungblud and Sam Smith. The winner will be announced in January 2026 on Radio 1 and BBC News.
This long-running list, introduced in 2003 with 50 Cent as the first winner, has historically predicted breakout success for stars like Adele, Stormzy, Florence + The Machine, Raye, Frank Ocean and Fred Again.
Among this year’s standout contenders is UK rapper Jim Legxacy, celebrated for genre-blending sounds rooted in vulnerability and lived experience. Irish rock band Florence Road, East London R&B talent KWN, and Colombian-British singer Sasha Keable add further depth to the diverse line-up.
Each nominee brings a distinct flavour:
Alessi Rose’s sharply observed alt-pop has taken her from small club stages to sold-out arenas. Chloe Qisha’s bold, off-beat pop draws from her Malaysian heritage and London influences. Florence Road’s grungy teenage rock has already captured festival buzz.
Geese continue to reinvent the New York art-rock scene with relentless creativity. Jim Legxacy’s introspective storytelling sets him apart in UK rap. KWN’s soulful R&B surged globally after her viral collaboration with Kehlani. Royel Otis’s jangly guitar pop has taken them from Sydney bars to Glastonbury. Sasha Keable’s emotionally rich R&B has earned praise from Beyoncé. Skye Newman’s powerful vocals and honest lyrics have caught the attention of Ed Sheeran and Sir Elton John. Sombr’s retro-modern pop charm cements him as one of the year’s biggest rising stars.
With a line-up as diverse as it is dynamic, the Sound of 2026 promises a thrilling new wave of global music talent set to shape the year ahead.