Charlotte Rutherford, Isak Jenssen
The BBC has revealed its annual Sound Of longlist. The 2021 list, which aims to highlight the new and rising artists expected to shape the upcoming year, includes Midlands rapper Pa Salieu, Norwegian bedroom pop artist girl in red, the Missy Elliot-endorsed Bree Runway, and indie band The Lathums.
Joining them on the longlist are road rap MC Dutchavelli, singer-songwriters Alfie Templeman and Holly Humberstone, soul star Greentea Peng, major pop hope GRIFF, and BERWYN.
The BBC Sound poll has previously been won by artists including Adele, Sam Smith, and Haim. Last year’s winner was soul singer Celeste. She finished ahead of YUNGBLUD, Arlo Parks and Beabadoobee.
A panel of 160 industry experts, including DJs, journalists, and festival bookers, compiles the list. The panel also includes previous nominees, with Billie Eilish, Stormzy, Jorja Smith, Wolf Alice, AJ Tracey, and Charli XCX contributing this time out.
The Sound of 2021 winner will be announced on Thursday January 7, 2021. Check out the potential winners below.
Pa Salieu, Bree Runway, girl in red, and more named on BBC Sound 2021 longlist
(L-R) Pa Salieu, Bree Runway, girl in red