This week is one of my favourite weeks of the year, as it’s The Great Escape in Brighton. It’s a chance to see the most hotly-tipped new artists in small venues before they get big. Over the years I’ve seen some (Iggy Azalea, Years & Years, Haim, Chvrches, Madeon, Marina & the Diamonds etc) who went on to do very well, and of course plenty who were never heard of again. Many of the performers at this year’s festival have already been featured in my Future Pop mailer, so here are 10 Future Stars that I recommend to anyone off to Brighton this week. See you down the front somewhere in the middle with a good view!
1. Aurora
This Norwegian teen singer is one of the best live performers I’ve seen this year. Read more.
2. Shamir
Shamir is cute, cool and colourful, and On The Regular is a top pop tune. Read more.
3. Lion Babe
Great hair, great moves, and I’m hoping there’s a great pop star about to be born. Read more.
Tobias’ songs already sound like classics, and soon they may be for real. Read more.
5. Mapei
Mapei brings together the sounds of her home towns, Stockholm and New York. Read more.
6. Little Simz
Little Simz gives us a glimpse into the future of what a female rapper can be. Read more.
7. Ivy & Gold
One of my favourite This Must Be Pop Live acts heads to The Great Escape. Read more.
8. Tor Miller
The underdog in the male US singer-songwriter race who deserves to jump ahead. Read more.
A local Brighton artist with dark lyrics and a raw, soulful sound. Read more.
10. Rhodes
A BBC Introducing favourite whose songs are subtle, heartfelt and beautiful. Read more.
I’m also looking forward to seeing these acts who haven’t made it into Future Pop yet. Maybe they will next week?