Soulful electro-pop London trio Years & Years have topped the prestigious BBC Sound Of 2015 list, a taste-making list which highlights the best new artists for the year ahead as voted for by 139 music industry figures.
The young trio, who meld synths and electro with a sound all rooted in ’90s r’n’b, topped a longlist of 15 acts. They were followed by soulful singer James Bay, UK rap sensation Stormzy who came third, Atlanta singer Raury and spoken word artist George The Poet.
Years & Years singer Olly Alexander said coming top of the list “means we’ve got a real shot” at making an impact in the year to come. “People are going to listen to what we’re going to do, and we’ve just got to not muck it up,” he said. “We’ve got to make the most of it and deliver.”
According to the BBC, the trio’s influences vary greatly from Stevie Wonder and Joni Mitchell to Radiohead and TLC. They supported last year’s BBC winner Sam Smith on tour in 2014 and have won over critics with a string of singles. They have yet to release a debut album.
“This trio are making dance music that wears its heart and soul on its sleeve. Their countless electro pop anthems will fill many a festival tent next summer,” Alison Howe, producer of BBC Two’s Later… With Jools Holland said.
After their win was announced, Years & Years performed a cover of Sound of 2013 winners Haim’s Don’t Save Me in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge. Watch that performance as well as Years & Years’ original track Desire below.
Watch: Years & Years – Don’t Save Me in the Live Lounge
Watch: Years & Years – Desire
Gallery: BBC Sound of 2015 Longlist
Something amazing & insane has happened that none of us can really believe! Thank u @bbcmusic #SoundOf2015 for giving us the top spot!
— Years & Years (@yearsandyears) January 9, 2015
None of this has really sunk in yet, there are many great people on the list. We promise we'll do our best to make the best sounds possible!
— Years & Years (@yearsandyears) January 9, 2015
BBC Sound of 2015 Longlist
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George
George the Poet: A 23 year old London artist who cleverly blends politically charged spoken word poetry with futuristic beats. -
Bbc James Bay
James Bay: A young folk singer who has amassed a loyal fan following thanks to his gravelly voice and gospel-tinged songs. -
Kwabs
Kwabs: A South London native with a distinctly deep and emotive voice. -
Laapsley
Låpsley: An 18-year-old electro pop multi-instrumentalist already making waves, seeing as she recently signed to XL Records and already wowed crowds at Glastonbury this year. -
Novelist
Novelist: At just 17, this South London artist is already a major player in the UK grime scene. Now he's starting to branch out, signing with XL Records and already recording a collaboration with Jamie xx. -
Rae Morris
Rae Morris: Inspired by PJ Harvey, Kate Bush and Feist, this young singer-songwriter is on track to becoming the new generation's indie pop star. You can hear her on Bombay Bicycle Club’s single 'Luna' and her debut EP, out early next year. -
Raury
Raury: One of few non-British entries on the list, you might recognise the name of this Atlanta singer, rapper and producer. He's already caught the attention Lorde who invited him to contribute to her Hunger Games: Mockingjay soundtrack. -
Shamir
Shamir: This young star from Las Vegas has everyone talking thanks to his unique blending of diverse genres from folk to house to punk to hip hop. -
Shura
Shura: A singer, producer, remixer and video editor, who takes inspiration from her travels around the world to make a sultry blend of indie pop. -
Slaves
Slaves: A punk duo known for their visceral performances and unbridled raw energy. -
Soak
SOAK: An 18-year-old artist who crafts wistful and delicate folk-inspired tunes. She's already made fans out of CHVRCHES. -
Stormzy
Stormzy: A UK rap sensation who turned a huge following on YouTube into a fully fledged career, becoming the first unsigned rapper to play Jools. Holland -
Sunset Sons
Sunset Sons: The only longlisted act to feature Australian members, Sunset Sons craft beautiful indie pop tunes with a decidedly surfy sound. -
Wolf Alice
Wolf Alice: Grunge poppers with a folk underbelly, Wolf Alice are poised to make waves in 2015 with the anticipated release of their debut album. -
Years Years
Years & Years: This London trio meld synths and electro with a sound all rooted in '90s R&B. They have enjoyed a run of successful performances at UK festivals in 2014 and are sure to continue their winning streak.
