BBC Sound Of 2015 Winners Revealed

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

http://youtu.be/g6D2aRuvCS0

Watch: Years & Years – Desire

Gallery: BBC Sound of 2015 Longlist