Music News

The BBC Releases Its “Sound of 2016” List

Every year around this time, the BBC puts together a list of artists they think have a solid chance of success (commercial or otherwise)  in the coming twelve months. Their predictions are a bit hit-and-miss (actually, more “miss” in recent years) but it’s still interesting to see where the Beeb’s music boffins heads are at.

Here’s the short list of 15 for the Sound Of 2016 poll. Based on votes from 144 industry types, a top 5 will be announced January with a singular winner named later in the month. Notice the Canadian at the top of the list.

  • Alessia Cara
  • Billie Marten
  • Blossoms
  • Dua Lipa
  • Frances
  • Izzy Bizu
  • Jack Garratt
  • J Hus
  • Loyle Carner
  • Mabel
  • Mura Masa 
  • NAO
  • Rat Boy
  • Section Boyz
  • WSTRN

To be honest, I’ve heard of less than half the names of this list, which means I’ve got some serious listening to do over the next month. Read more about the Sound Of… poll here.

Alan Cross

is an internationally known broadcaster, interviewer, writer, consultant, blogger and speaker. In his 40+ years in the music business, Alan has interviewed the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters. He’s also known as a musicologist and documentarian through programs like The Ongoing History of New Music.

Alan Cross has 38011 posts and counting. See all posts by Alan Cross

One thought on “The BBC Releases Its “Sound of 2016” List

Let us know what you think!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.