The future sound of music has been mapped out, as BBC Radio 1 unveils the ten artists on its prestigious Sound of 2026 longlist. The annual forecast, now in its 23rd year, highlights the most promising new talents predicted to dominate the industry in the coming twelve months.
Who are the artists tipped for success?
This year's eclectic selection features British singer-songwriter Alessi Rose, who earned her stripes with standout performances at major festivals including TRNSMT in Glasgow and Reading and Leeds. She is joined by American artist Sombr, whose real name is Shane Michael Boose. The 20-year-old, known for his viral TikTok hit 'Back to Friends', recently performed on The Graham Norton Show and won an MTV Video Music Award for Best Alternative Video.
The list showcases a diverse range of genres and backgrounds. Other notable names include alternative pop artist Chloe Qisha, 26, and Australian indie pop duo Royel Otis. South-east London's Skye Newman, 22, who scored a UK top five single in June with 'Family Matters', also makes the cut. The longlist is rounded out by R&B singer Kwn, US indie rock band Geese, Irish rock band Florence Road, British rapper Jim Legxacy, and British singer-songwriter Sasha Keable.
A heavyweight panel of industry judges
The selection carries significant weight, having been curated by a panel of over 170 music industry experts and established artists. Esteemed figures such as Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa, Olivia Dean, and Sam Smith were among those who cast their votes, lending considerable authority to the predictions.
BBC Radio 1 DJ Jack Saunders underscored the list's importance in today's fast-paced music landscape. He stated that the Sound of list champions the stars of the future at a time when artists can feel "disposable to the algorithm." Fellow DJ Sian Eleri added to the excitement, calling the list "a compass for what’s next" and declaring that "2026 is heading somewhere special."
From longlist to winner: What happens next?
The countdown to crown the ultimate winner will begin on January 5, 2026. Radio 1 will reveal the Top 5 artists in the days leading up to the grand finale, where the winner of BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2026 will be announced on January 9, 2026.
The Sound of list has a formidable track record for spotting future global superstars early in their careers. Previous alumni include Adele, Stormzy, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, and Lewis Capaldi. The winner of the 2025 poll was American singer Chappell Roan, demonstrating the list's ongoing influence in shaping the musical landscape.
