BBC Sound Of: Every winner from 50 Cent to Skye Newman

Other previous winners include Adele, Sam Smith, Michael Kiwanuka and Chappell Roan.

It's Official - Skye Newman has been named as the BBC Sound Of 2026 winner!

Since 2003, the BBC has published an annual Sound Of list spotlighting rising stars from the music world. The accolade is given to up-and-coming artists with "the best chance of mainstream success" in the next 12 months, and past winners include Adele, Sam Smith and 50 Cent, so the poll has an impressive track record.

The pop singer hailing from south-east London is the 24th winner in all. The soulful Skye made her debut in the Official Charts with Hairdresser in April 2025 and since then, her rise has been meteoric in size. Just a month later, Family Matters broke the Top 5 as this charismatic character revealed herself to the world.

Speaking on the accolade, Skye stated: "I can't believe that I've got to this point, it's incredible, surreal, just mental.

"It just feels surreal to know so many people have won this award who I've listened to my whole life. They're in the place that I want to be. So this is just a step further."

From touring with both Ed Sheeran and Lewis Capaldi, her reputation has been firmly solidified and 2026 promises to offer even more, with a sold-out tour in April as well as a new EP in the works.

This year's longlist was announced in December and includes 10 artists from the UK and beyond: Alessi Rose, Chloe Qisha, Florence Road, Geese, Jim Legxacy, KWN, Royel Otis, Sasha Keable, Skye Newman and sombr.

The Top 5 in total was; Australian duo Royel Otis (5), American sensations Geese (4), the ever eclectic sombr (3), UK rap starboy Jim Legxacy (2) and Skye Newman taking home top spot.

Who decides the winner of the 2026 BBC Sound Of?

The nominees were chosen by a panel of more than 170 music industry experts and artists including representatives from Spotify, Glastonbury Festival and the BBC. Musicians having their say this year include Sir Elton John and Olivia Dean