BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2024 longlist is here, including Ayra Starr, Caity Baser, CMAT, Elmiene, Kenya Grace, The Last Dinner Party, Olivia Dean, Peggy Gou, Sekou, and Tyla.
Chris Price, Head of Music for Radio 1, said, “With so many female artists on the Sound Of list this year, I’m really encouraged about the next generation of festival headliners. The list is as diverse as ever, reflecting the genre-agnostic nature of BBC Radio 1, which has supported every single one of the acts on the longlist. 2024 promises to be a great year for new music!”
Here’s more on how the list comes together: “The list was compiled using recommendations from 149 influential music experts, including artists, DJs, radio and TV producers, journalists, streaming experts and festival bookers. All were asked to name their favourite three new acts, who could be performers from any country and any musical genre, whether or not they are signed. They cannot have been the lead artist on a UK number 1 or number 2 album or more than two UK top ten singles before 12 October 2023. They also must not already be widely known by the UK general public (for example, a member of a hit band going solo or a TV star) or have appeared on the Sound Of… list before.”
This year’s pundits included Olivia Rodrigo, Jorja Smith, Mahalia, PinkPantheress, Sigrid, last year’s winners FLO, and more.
Read more about each nominee and the pole itself here. The winner will be revealed on January 5.
