The BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2025 longlist is here, featuring festival headliners, a Number 1 artist, and Mercury Prize winners

BBC Radio 1 have revealed their Sound of 2025 longlist, featuring eleven artists set to make an impact in the coming year.

The annual list has been selected by a panel of over 180 industry experts and artists, including Elton John, Dua Lipa, Jorja Smith, The Blessed Madonna and Sam Smith, with previous years having tipped The Last Dinner Party (2024), FLO (2023) and PinkPantheress (2022).

The Sound of 2025 longlist comprises recent Dork cover stars Confidence Man, upcoming All Points East headliner Barry Can’t Swim, Chappell Roan, who needs no introduction, and Mercury Prize winners English Teacher and Ezra Collective. Plus, Doechii, Good Neighbours, KNEECAP, mk.gee, Myles Smith and Pozer.

The countdown of the Top 5 will begin on Radio 1 on 6th January 2025, with the winner announced on 10th January 2025.

Radio 1 are also set to host BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2025 LIVE at Maida Vale on 2nd December, featuring performances from artists on the longlist. The event will be presented by Radio 1’s Jack Saunders and Sian Eleri, with tickets available via the BBC Shows and Tours website.

“The Radio 1 Sound of 2025 list this year is one of the strongest in a while. It’s a reflection of the freedom artists are feeling creatively at the moment. Can’t wait to see who the Top 5 are!” says Saunders.