Skye Newman has been topped BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2026.
Picture: Ray Hill/Avalon
The 22-year-old star – who has supported Ed Sheeran and Lewis Capaldi – had a stellar 2025, having bagged a UK quantity 5 single with Household Issues. Different standout tracks embody Hairdresser, FU + UF, and Out Out, whereas her EP SE9 – PT1 made it into the highest 20 of the Official UK Albums Chart.
Skye beat off stiff competitors from rapper Jim Legxacy, US star Sombr, indie rock band Geese, and Aussie pop group Royel Otis to win the annual ballot.
This 12 months’s longlist additionally included Alessi Rose, Florence Street and Sasha Keable.
Reacting, Skye admitted it is “surreal, simply psychological”.
She commented: “I’m nonetheless in shock that I’ve gained Radio 1’s Sound Of 2026. So many artists that I’ve listened to through the years have been honoured with the award, and now me.
“To suppose that Sound Of began the 12 months I used to be born, 2003 and now I’m a winner. I’m so grateful and wouldn’t be the place I’m with out my individuals and the BBC supporting me on my journey. Thank-you.”
She instructed BBC Information: “I can’t consider that I’ve bought up to now, it’s unbelievable, surreal, simply psychological.”
Earlier recipients embody final 12 months’s winner Chappell Roan, Adele, Sam Smith and 50 Cent.
Whereas acting on the BBC Introducing Stage at BBC Radio 1’s Huge Weekend in 2025, Skye admitted she was “overwhelmed” to see the huge turnout.
The TikTok sensation instructed the viewers: “I ain’t even began and also you’ve already bought me in tears.”
She continued: “I can’t consider there are such a lot of individuals right here to take heed to me… I’m a bit overwhelmed however I’m gonna do my finest.”
The rising star added: “The numbers I see on a display are insane, nevertheless it’ll by no means contact this.”