BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2026 shortlist has been unveiled, forecasting the key musical trends for the year ahead, from innovative pop sounds to guitar-driven anthems.
Among the nominees is US singer-songwriter Sombr, whose captivating harmonies and emotive pop-rock compositions have already yielded several UK Top 10 singles.
Also contending for the title are Australian skate-rock duo Royel Otis and the taut, post-punk stylings of Geese. They are joined by rising pop talents Chloe Qisha, Skye Newman, and Alessi Rose, the latter having recently supported Dua Lipa on her summer tour.
Past winners of the prestigious poll include Adele, Haim, and Chappell Roan. The recipient of the Sound of 2026 award will be revealed in January on Radio 1 and BBC News.
The shortlist was determined by an international panel of over 170 industry experts and artists, including Sir Elton John, Dua Lipa, Jade, Olivia Dean, Yungblud, and Sam Smith.
Eligibility is limited to artists who, as of October 31, 2025, have not achieved a number one album or more than three Top 10 singles. Artists with a pre-existing “significant public profile” are also excluded.
Completing the 2026 nominations are burgeoning rap artist Jim Legxacy, Irish rock group Florence Road, R&B vocalist Kwn, and singer-songwriter Sasha Keable, previously known for her collaborations with Disclosure and Jorja Smith.
The Sound Of… list has been an annual feature since 2003, with US rapper 50 Cent being its inaugural winner.
In subsequent years, it has successfully identified future stars such as Stormzy, Frank Ocean, Wet Leg, Florence + The Machine, Raye, Fred Again, Vampire Weekend, and Yungblud.
Here’s a closer look at the 10 artists nominated for the Sound of 2026.
Explore Radio 1’s Sound of 2026 in greater detail