BBC Radio 1 Reveals Sound of 2026 Longlist

The longlist for BBC Radio 1's Sound of 2026, an annual poll spotlighting emerging music talent, was revealed on Wednesday, featuring 10 artists selected for their potential breakthroughs next year. The artists include Alessi Rose, Chloe Qisha, Florence Road, Geese, Jim Legxacy, kwn, Royel Otis, Sasha Keable, Skye Newman and Sombr.

The list was compiled through votes from a panel of more than 170 industry experts and artists, among them Elton John, Dua Lipa, Jade, Olivia Dean, Yungblud and former winner Sam Smith. This marks the 23rd edition of the poll, which has run since 2003 and has a track record of identifying future stars. Past winners include Adele, HAIM, PinkPantheress, Sam Smith and Chappell Roan, who topped the 2025 list ahead of acts like Ezra Collective, English Teacher and Knepp. Other notable alumni and shortlistees encompass Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish, The Last Dinner Party, Stormzy and Ellie Goulding.

The Sound of poll aims to highlight artists on the cusp of wider recognition, with eligibility rules recently updated to ensure newcomers qualify. Following controversy over Roan's 2025 win, where some argued she was already too established with multiple top albums...