BBC Sound of 2015 Longlist Announced

To be named on the BBC Sound of lists is a pretty big deal. Last year's winner was Sam Smith and past winners have included HAIM in 2013, Jessie J in 2011, Ellie Goulding in 2010, Adele in 2008, Keane in 2004 and 50 Cent in 2003. If you land on this list, your future is probably headed in the right direction, and if you win, your career is most likely going to take off quickly. BBC has now announced the longlist for those artists who are set to make waves in 2015, via MTV.

The artists on the BBC Sound of 2015 are James Bay, George the Poet, Kwabs, Lapsley, Rae Morris, Novelist, Raury, Shamir, Shura, Slaves, Soak, Stormzy, Sunset Sons, Wolf Alice and Years & Years. The list spans a whole host of different sounds and styles from pop to grunge to grime.

There is talent across the board, but several bands and groups on this list stand out.

Years & Years's synth pop has created buzz with its danceable twist that blends in touches of house with their poppy vocals.

James Bay has earned comparisons to Ben Howard with his soulful, bluesy voice — fitting, since they share the same management team.

Rae Morris has the potential to be the next big U.K. singer with a sound reminiscent of many great singers from her homeland like Florence & The Machine, Kate Bush and Ellie Goulding.

Wolf Alice has excited fans with their modern, slightly feminine take on 1990s grunge. Their single "Moaning Lisa Smile" gives you a good introduction to what the future holds for these four.

A panel of 139 industry experts, including DJs, critics and broadcasters, chose the list. None of the artists or the members in the groups could have been well-known in Britain to make the list. The final countdown of the top five will begin Jan. 5.

Tags

James bay, Wolf alice, Years & years