Artists to Watch in 2025: Spotlight on British and Irish Talent
Exciting New Music Prospects for 2025: What to Expect.
The end of year lists have wrapped up, and now, the excitement of new album releases is taking center stage once again. As the music industry gears up for 2025, festival line-ups are also beginning to surface, creating a vibrant atmosphere for both artists and fans. The influx of critics’ recommendations highlights numerous emerging artists expected to make significant impacts this year, bringing fresh sounds and innovative styles to the forefront of the music scene.
Anticipation is building for the British and Irish music scenes as we approach the upcoming festival season. This period serves as a vital platform for up-and-coming artists to showcase their talent and connect with potential fans, agents, and record labels. The live music experience is often where the true magic happens, revealing the depth and excitement of new releases while creating unforgettable moments for concert-goers. This is an essential time for artists to shine and gain the recognition they deserve.
Looking back at last year, only two British artists—both well-established—topped the U.K.’s Official Singles Chart: Charli XCX with “Guess” featuring Billie Eilish, and Chase & Status with their collaboration “Backbone” featuring Stormzy. In contrast, Ireland’s Hozier enjoyed a two-week reign at the top with his hit “Too Sweet.” This trend highlights the challenges new talent faces in breaking into the mainstream, underlining the importance of support from fans and media alike.
Just days into 2025, exciting developments are already visible on the charts, primarily fueled by releases from emerging musicians. As of January 8, Lola Young’s powerful and emotionally resonant anthem “Messy” is making waves at No. 3 on the U.K. Singles Chart, six months after its initial release. Additionally, viral tracks from artists like Ceechynaa with “Peggy” and Myles Smith’s “Nice To Meet Ya” are rapidly climbing the charts, showcasing the growing momentum behind new talent.
The start of this new year is promising, setting the stage for numerous acts to cultivate sounds that might shape future trends in the music industry. Below is a curated list of 15 innovative musicians from the U.K. and Ireland who are poised to make a significant impact throughout 2025, presented in alphabetical order for your convenience.
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Alessi Rose: The Rising Star from Derby
From: Derby, England
Label: AWAL
Look out for: Alessi Rose’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. At just 22 years old, she has already made a name for herself with her self-starter mentality. Early in her career, she engaged her fans by hosting intimate studio sessions to gather feedback on her evolving sound. Her music, heavily influenced by Gen Z culture, reflects the complexities of modern relationships and identity as shaped by the digital landscape.
Key track: “Eat Me Alive” -
Ceechynaa: The Viral Sensation
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Chloe Slater: The Voice of a Generation
From: Bournemouth, England
Label: AWAL
Look out for: Chloe Slater’s music resonates deeply with listeners as she advocates for youth solidarity against ignorance. Her stirring single “Fig Tree” captures the tumultuous journey of self-discovery in a chaotic world. With a powerful message intertwined with a captivating bass groove, her upcoming festival performances will undoubtedly elevate her profile and showcase her dynamic live presence.
Key track: “Fig Tree” -
Chy Cartier: The Experimental Artist
From: London, England
Label: Independent
Look out for: Chy Cartier has quickly garnered recognition from notable British rap figures including Dave and Stormzy. Her unique style blends intricate beats with a fluid lyrical flow, setting her apart in the evolving U.K. rap landscape. As she prepares to release her debut mixtape, anticipation is building for her innovative sound that defies conventional genre boundaries.
Key track: “Shush” -
Cliffords: The Indie Trailblazers from Cork
From: Cork, Ireland
Label: Independent
Look out for: The Irish music scene is flourishing, and Cliffords are at the forefront of this movement. With Iona Lynch’s ethereal voice leading the charge, they are creating remarkable indie music that echoes the atmospheric styles of artists like Sharon Van Etten. Their limited discography has already captivated listeners, showcasing immense potential for future releases.
Key track: “Shattered Glass” -
Jacob Alon: The Hopeful Voice from Scotland
From: Fife, Scotland
Label: Island
Look out for: Jacob Alon brings a unique perspective to his music, having navigated personal challenges such as estrangement and homelessness. His gentle melodies paired with poignant lyrics foster an atmosphere of hope and resilience. With upcoming performances at major festivals and a U.K. headlining tour, Alon is set to capture hearts with his relatable storytelling.
Key track: “Fairy in a Bottle” -
Lola Young: The Breakthrough Sensation
From: London, England
Label: Island
Look out for: After years of anticipation, Lola Young’s talent is finally being recognized on a larger scale. Her debut album This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway has showcased her versatility and depth as an artist. With her single “Messy” climbing the charts, it’s evident that she is on the cusp of a major breakthrough, poised to dominate the music scene in 2025.
Key track: “Messy” -
Luvcat: The Enigmatic Pop Innovator
From: Liverpool, England
Label: Island
Look out for: Luvcat’s music exudes confidence and sensuality, establishing her unique space within the pop genre. With standout tracks like “He’s My Man,” she has garnered millions of streams and secured notable festival slots. As she embarks on her debut album journey, Luvcat is ready to further captivate audiences with her bold musical direction.
Key track: “He’s My Man” -
My First Time: Cult Indie Band from Bristol
From: Bristol, England
Label: Parlophone
Look out for: Emerging from Bristol’s vibrant music scene, My First Time is ready to transition from an underground act to a beloved indie band. With their latest single “Wind Up Merchant,” they offer a fresh take on modern life through their unique sound. Expect their dynamic performances to resonate deeply with audiences as they grow their fanbase.
Key track: “Wind Up Merchant” -
Myles Smith: The Emotional Storyteller
From: Luton, England
Label: RCA
Look out for: Myles Smith captivates listeners with his heartfelt melodies and relatable lyrics that resonate with a wide audience. His breakout hit “Stargazing” made waves on the Billboard Hot 100, leading to sold-out performances. Drawing from his humble beginnings, Smith’s warm stage presence and emotional depth are sure to make him a prominent figure in the music landscape this year.
Key track: “Stargazing” -
Nia Smith: The Soulful Sensation
From: London, England
Label: Polydor
Look out for: Nia Smith’s soulful voice has the power to uplift and inspire. Rejecting the need for flashy vocal displays, she emphasizes emotional honesty in her performances. With early tracks like “Don’t Cry,” Smith’s artistry promises to resonate deeply, offering a beautiful exploration of self-acceptance and vulnerability.
Key track: “Don’t Cry” -
Oreglo: The Genre-Bending Quartet
From: London, England
Label: Brownswood Recordings
Look out for: Oreglo is a four-piece band known for their eclectic fusion of jazz, rock, and dance elements. Their music is unpredictable, often featuring surprising shifts that keep listeners engaged. As they gain recognition, expect Oreglo to bring their unique sound to the forefront of the music scene, captivating audiences everywhere.
Key track: “Opedge” -
Pozer: The Innovative Rapper
From: London, England
Label: RCA
Look out for: Pozer is making headlines with his unique blend of drill, grime, and Jersey club influences. He made history as the first British rapper to achieve simultaneous chart success with his debut singles. As he continues to collaborate with notable artists, including AJ Tracey, his innovative approach will likely keep him at the forefront of the U.K. music scene.
Key track: “Kitchen Stove” -
The Orchestra (For Now): The Quirky Baroque Band
From: London, England
Label: Independent
Look out for: The Orchestra (For Now) stands out in the baroque-pop scene with their humor and creativity. Their energetic performances, including a playful birthday party for Carly Rae Jepsen, showcase their fun-loving spirit. After winning the Green Man Rising competition, they are set to make significant waves at U.K. festivals this year.
Key track: “Wake Robin” -
TTSSFU: The Confrontational Guitarist
From: Manchester, England
Label: Partisan
Look out for: TTSSFU, the musical project of Tasmin Nicole Stephens, has quickly gained attention for her raw and confrontational style. Her EP Me, Jed and Andy delves into themes of self-empowerment and emotional introspection. With tracks like “I Hope You Die,” she connects with a passionate fanbase eager for her unapologetic message.
Key track: “I Hope You Die”