It’s that time of the year again – countdowns, roundups, lists. This year BBC Music have brought together 170 international industry professionals to predict what 2017 will sound like be, and if they’re anything to by, it’s looking more urban than ever. The majority of the longlist is revealed to be grime emcees and rappers, alogside R&B singers, shortly followed after by soul singers, and electronic producers.
The list, which includes 15 rising acts, spotlights grime and hip-hop artists: AJ Tracey, Dave, Nadia Rose and Stefflon Don, R&B artist Ray BLK, alongside soulful singers Rag N Bone Man, Tom Grennan, Jorja Smith. Additionally, pop artists The Japanese House, Raye, Declan McKenna and Maggie Rogers feature alongside rockers The Amazons and the post-punk heroes Cabbage. The most interesting addition to the list is a man you should be extremely familiar with, Anderson .Paak who has gone on to dominate this year with his endless stream of features, albums and collaboration projects.
BBC Radio 1Xtra DJ MistaJam commented that he was pleased to see such diverse artists, especially from the UK. “Next year is already shaping up to be a big one filled with amazing music from homegrown talent…From the driving rock of The Amazons to Dave’s 18-year-old inner city street tales via Maggie Rogers’ folk meets electronic soundscapes, the list shows the breadth and quality of what we can expect next year.”
Previous Longlisted artists have included Sam Smith, Ellie Goulding, Jack Garratt and Adele, all massive artists in their own respects who have since gone on to garner huge worldwide attention for their sounds. Have a listen to this year’s selections below!
Image: The Guardian