Last year I listened to more music than ever before, found fantastic new artists, and fell in love with old ones all over again. Keeping that in mind, I’m really excited for all the new music and artist discoveries this year. Here are 10 artists that I will be following closely in 2018:

1. YONAKA

I discovered this four-piece band mid-last year, and they’re making waves on the music front with such a fresh sound. Lead singer Theresa Jarvis has a distinct and powerful vocal (think Paramore) which makes each song captivating.  Every track is full of riveting hooks, electric guitar solos and catchy lyrics, a band I’m keeping my eye on throughout this year.

2. THE HUNNA

I’ve dipped in and out of their tracks and have to say loved each one, they’re a mellow rock/pop four-piece from Hertforshire (they remind me of You Me At Six). They’re an easy to listen to band with some really catchy tunes, what more could you want? Vocalist Ryan Potter is impressive, not only because of his voice but long locks too, they’ve got the look and the sound.

3. TROYE SIVAN

Before he became an artist I was a fan of his Youtube videos, and when he released his debut album Blue Neighbourhood is 2015 I was all over it. But January 2018, and already he’s come back with a bang! MY MY MY has been on repeat ever since it came out, it’s a track full of sass, catchy lyrics and melody and unique vocals. I’m really excited to see what else he’s going to release this year, so far I’m really impressed.

4. SAINT RAYMOND

I did an interview with Callum (aka Saint Raymond) before he headlined Rock City a few years ago and it was one of the best gigs I’ve been to. He’s got a distinct and electric voice that really captures your attention, and I’ve loved every track (and album). When he released new music last year I was thrilled, not just because it was amazing but because it means he’s back. 2017 was a teaser year so I’m ready for more.

5. TOM GRENNAN 

I’ve been a fan of his music for about a year now and managed to catch his set at Dot to Dot Festival last May. His voice is distinctive; raspy and raw. He brings emotion and personality to every song and that’s why I love his music. Sober, a track he released earlier this month has made me really excited for what else is coming this year; especially for his debut album Lighting Matches.

6. ANDY BROWN 

I’ve been a fan of Lawson since first seeing them back in 2011, and so when they announced solo projects I was also very excited. Frontman Andy has taken a country route with his latest releases (and upcoming debut solo album Cedarmont) and I really like what I’m hearing. His love for Country music really shines through and everything he releases is just so easy to listen to. I’m excited to see where 2018 takes him.

7. AMBER RUN 

I’m not going to lie last year Amber Run were my most listened to band. I fell in love with their album For A Moment, I Was Lost, and saw them multiple times at gigs. They’re a band that aren’t afraid to sing about the hard stuff, and they do it in a way that’s full of emotions and also super catchy, both in melody and lyrics. Both the instrumental solos and vocals are faultless and I’m really excited to listen to some new stuff (hopefully a couple of singles) because I’ve played their latest album to death!

8. FLYTE

I discovered Flyte late 2016 and fell in love with their album The Loved Ones when they released it last year. It’s a beautiful album, with stunning vocal harmonies and lyrics. I can’t fault anything they’ve released, and after catching them live at the end of last year I love them even more. They tell stories through their music in the most beautiful of ways one of the reasons why their music is not only easy to listen to, but also timeless.

9. DEMONS OF RUBY MAE

I discovered this band after listening to my local BBC Introducing show and they really stood out for me. This song in particular is not only super catchy but the vocals are so good! I’m really excited to see what else they’ve got this year, especially with their debut album to be released – the first single from it, Someday, has a stunning vocal performance! They’re a band with a lot of potential and ones to watch for sure!

10. FICKLE FRIENDS

When they released Glue last year I fell in love with it, it’s catchy, funky and has a really great melody. Lead vocalist, Natassja Shiner has a unique but stunning voice and they give pop not only style but a bit of class. Think old school Alphabeat with a bit more edge and a lot better lyrics, they’re ones I’m definitely looking forward to hearing more of in 2018!.