Ones to Watch in 2017

As we welcome 2017 with optimism and our arms wide open, I give you a list of the bands and artists that are about to make the next 12 months in music oh so beautiful.


1. JP Cooper

After a surprise contemporary duet with Jonas Blue at the end of 2015 rose up the charts, so did the attention for Manchester born soul singer JP Cooper. As well as being an absolutely stunning live performer, he is a pop singer with an incredibly slick soul edge. He is set to dominate charts with his own material throughout 2017.

2. Rag'n'Bone Man

Winner of the Critic's Choice Award at this year's Brit Awards, it is pretty obvious the appeal for Rag'n'Bone Man is something we shouldn't ignore. The rawness that emanates through his debut track 'Human' gives him the most overwhelming level of authenticity to make him stand out amongst the crowd.

3. PROSE

Manchester's answer to fill 'The Streets' shaped' void that has been in our hearts since their split in 2011, Prose are gold dust. Their 2016 debut album 'Home of the Brave' is a beautiful collection of Mike Skinner-esque spoken word songs about everyday life. Effortlessly sublime.

4. Zuzu

Liverpool artist Zuzu has spent most of 2016 wowing crowds as support for bands such as Hooton Tennis Club and The Vryll Society, but 2017 may just be the year that she shines all on her own. Already being tipped by BBC Introducing Merseyside, Zuzu's angry girl guitar anthems are slick, catchy and a breath of fresh air. 

5. Jorja Smith

Another member of the notorious BBC Sound of 2017 list, fourth place Jorja Smith's voice is as smooth as silk. Single 'Carry Me Home' with Maverick Sabre is a masterpiece. With the husky support from Sabre, Smith dominates with her stunning vocals backed by a blissful, jazzy instrumental. Now on her way to conquer The States, Jorja Smith is set to have a bright 2017.