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BBC Radio 1 reveals Sound of 2026 contenders
The annual poll, which forecasts the year's most promising new music, has released its 2026 shortlist blending pop innovation with guitar-driven anthems. The winner will be announced in January.
Who made the list?
Ten artists from across genres and continents have been nominated by a panel of over 170 industry figures, including Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Sam Smith. Eligibility rules exclude acts with a UK number-one album or more than three top-10 singles as of October 31, 2025, as well as those with an established public profile.
Pop and rock front-runners
US singer-songwriter Sombr leads the pack with his lush harmonies and emotive pop-rock, having already secured multiple UK top-10 hits. Australian skate-rock duo Royel Otis and New York post-punk band Geese also feature, alongside rising pop vocalists Chloe Qisha, Skye Newman, and Alessi Rose, the latter of whom toured with Dua Lipa this summer.
Emerging voices in rap and R&B
Breakout rap artist Jim Legxacy and R&B singer Kwn bring fresh energy to the list, while Irish rockers Florence Road and singer-songwriter Sasha Keable-known for collaborations with Disclosure and Jorja Smith-round out the nominees.
Past winners and predictions
The Sound of poll launched in 2003, with 50 Cent as its first winner. Since then, it has accurately spotlighted future stars like Adele, Stormzy, Frank Ocean, Wet Leg, and Fred Again. The 2026 winner will be revealed in January on Radio 1 and BBC News.
What's next?
The shortlist reflects a mix of genres and backgrounds, underscoring the poll's role in shaping the year's musical landscape. Fans can explore the nominees in detail on the BBC Radio 1 website.
Correction (15 December 2025): This article was updated to include the correct line-up for Geese.
