BBC Radio 1 names Skye Newman as Sound of 2026 winner
Skye Newman has been named as winner of BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2026, following a vote by more than 170 music industry experts from across the UK and beyond.
The British singer-songwriter topped this year’s influential list after receiving strong support from a panel made up of artists and industry figures including Elton John, Dua Lipa, JADE, Olivia Dean, YUNGBLUD and Sam Smith.
With early backing from BBC Introducing and BBC Radio 1, last year proved to be a major breakthrough for Skye Newman, as her debut single Hairdresser went viral and became one of three UK Top 20 singles she released during the year.
Radio 1 presenters Jack Saunders and Sian Eleri were among her early champions, featuring her music on Radio 1’s New Music Show and Future Artists. Skye also made her Radio 1 Live Lounge debut during Live Lounge Month in October last year.
Alongside her broadcast success, Skye Newman performed at Radio 1’s Big Weekend last year in Liverpool, shared stages with Ed Sheeran, and supported Lewis Capaldi on arena tours, helping establish her reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging artists.
Reacting to the announcement, Skye Newman says: “I’m still in shock that I’ve won Radio 1’s Sound of 2026! So many artists that I’ve listened to over the years have been honoured with the award and now me!
“To think that Sound Of started the year I was born, 2003 and now I’m a winner! I’m so grateful and wouldn’t be where I am without my people and the BBC supporting me on my journey. Thank you!”
As part of the Sound of 2026 celebrations, Skye’s performance from Radio 1’s Sound of Live gig will be available on Radio 1’s iPlayer channel.
Her full interview with Jack Saunders is also being featured on Radio 1’s New Music Show Podcast at 6am today, Friday 9 January.
The top five acts for Sound of 2026 are:
- Skye Newman
- Jim Legxacy
- sombr
- Geese
- Royel Otis
Also included on the Sound of 2026 longlist (in alphabetical order):
- Alessi Rose
- Chloe Qisha
- Florence Road
- kwn
- Sasha Keable
Sound Of… launched in 2003 and over the years winners include 50 Cent, Adele and HAIM. Last year’s winner was Chappell Roan, who went on to enjoy a landmark year following her Sound Of… success. Past lists have featured Stormzy, Lady Gaga, RAYE, The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish and Lewis Capaldi.
Further details of the panel and how the list was compiled are available on BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2026 website.