With 2015 being nothing but a distant memory, we look ahead to the new year and shine a spotlight on 10 musicians who are set to make 2016 very special.
Kali Uchis
In 2015 Columbian born singer-songwriter Kali Uchis made waves across the internet when she released the critically acclaimed Por Vida EP and dropped the undeniably great track “Ridin’ Round”. 2016 is going to be even bigger with Uchis set to release her debut album. If her previous work is anything to go by, it’ll be major.
Gallant
Gallant is an incredibly rare talent, possessing one of the finest voices in R&B and the ability to craft unforgettable lyrics. It’s also hard to pinpoint Gallant’s references; he constructs a musical world that is entirely his own, a dreamlike and hazy soundscape. Gallant has received plaudits from all corners of the industry and his track “Weight In Gold” was the first “world exclusive” on Apple’s Beats 1. Expect huge things in 2016.
Sofi de la Torre
Spanish singer-songwriter Sofi de la Torre is not just responsible for one of 2015’s finest EPs but is also spearheading a movement that she’s dubbed “#PopDoneRight”. Sofi de la Torre started out producing alt-folk records but made the switch to pop in 2014 with the release of “Vermillion” and she hasn’t looked back. Her 2015 EP Mess contains lush pop bangers that are artfully produced and perfectly performed. She makes it all seem effortless.
NAO
Hackney based singer-songwriter NAO fuses disparate genres to create a sound that is totally her own. NOA’s talents have attracted the attention of a number of musical’s most notable names and featured on Disclosure’s sophomore album Caracal.
Kloe
Glasgow-based singer Kloe cites Stevie Nicks, Alanis Morissette and Taylor Swift as influences and makes brilliant alt-pop. Aged just 19, Kloe already has a sting of electro-pop gems under her belt and is set to become your new favourite popstar in 2016.
Dua Lipa
Singer-songwriter Dua Lipa is an utterly captivating performer with a hypnotic voice. Debut tracks “New Love” and “Be The One” were amongst the year’s finest and Lipa rightfully earned a place on the list for BBC’s Sound of 2016. We’re beyond excited to hear what she has planned next.
Tiggs Da Author
Tanzania-born, London-based performer Tiggs Da Author is set to have a breakout year. Tiggs Da Author blends old school jazz and soul but is no throwback artist. His sound is not only immensely fun but fresh. The Bobby Bland-sampling “Georgia” was one of the stand out tracks of 2015 and the perfect introduction to a unique voice.
Anne-Marie
Anne-Marie has paid her dues. Having spent the last two years on the road with Rudimental, Anne-Marie is ready to become a pop force in her own right. Anne-Marie’ place on this list was assured with the release of her track “Boy” which was pop perfection. Ann-Marie is currently in the studio working on her debut album.
Fletcher
Fletcher has laid the groundwork for what will be an incredible 2016. Her anthemic track “War Paint” became the #1 most shared Spotify track on social media and to date has been streamed over 10 million times. What’s more impressive is that Fletcher has found the time to become the next pop superstar while being a fulltime NYU student.
Mabel
Mabel, the child of the legendary Neneh Cherry and producer Cameron McVey, is extraordinarily talent. Her songwriting is more mature than her 19 years would suggest and her tough look belies music that is tender, beautiful and earnest.
Words: Dan Austin