The BRIT Awards season is heating up, and the nominees for the Rising Star category have been announced. With the prestigious ceremony set for March 1, 2025, excitement is palpable as music fans eagerly await to see who will take home the coveted title.
This year's nominees are reaping recognition for their unique contributions to the music scene. They include R&B and soul artist Elmiene, indie pop duo Good Neighbours, and multi-talented folk-pop singer Myles Smith.
Since its inception, the Rising Star award has spotlighted fresh talent, celebrating artists who are poised to leave their mark on the industry. Past winners include iconic names like Adele, Sam Smith, Florence + The Machine, and Sam Fender. With this year's all-male shortlist marking a significant shift from the trends of recent years, the nominees stand on the brink of potentially joining the ranks of these esteemed stars.
Elmiene's Journey to Recognition
Elmiene, whose real name is Abdala Elamin, hails from Oxford and has made waves with his soulful sound. After being named one to watch by BBC Radio 1 earlier this year, he didn’t waste any time making his presence felt, releasing two successful EPs and collaborating with industry giants like Stormzy.
Reflecting on his nomination, Elmiene shared, "I’m extremely grateful to be nominated for the Rising Star award. If I could put the feeling of being nominated intowords, I would say it’s like being completely satisfied with a meal you bought and then finding out itcomes with dessert and a drink. Didn't know it could get anybetter." His refreshing perspective on fame and success resonates with many aspiring musicians.
Myles Smith: From Open Mic Nights to Stardom
Myles Smith, originally from Luton, has been captivating audiences since he started playing guitar at age nine. His dedication paid off during the pandemic when he began posting his musical covers on TikTok, leading to his signing with Sony's RCA label. His breakout single "Stargazing" peaked at number 4 on the Official U.K. Singles Chart and has garnered millions of views.
"Growing up, music became my way of connecting with others and making sense of the world around me," Smith said. "This recognition feels like a reflection of my entire musicaljourney – the highs and challenges I've faced, plus the amazing people who’ve supported me along the way. It means the world to me to be seen and heard." Myles's heartfelt connection with his listeners showcases the true essence of his artistry.
Good Neighbours: An Indie Sensation
The energetic pair, Good Neighbours, which features Scott Verrill and Oli Fox, has taken the music world by storm with their catchy, infectious sound. Their debut single "Home" achieved remarkable success, becoming the most streamed debut single globally for new artists this past year, with over 322 million streams across platforms.
They expressed their disbelief at their nomination saying, “The BRITs have always been a huge dream for both of us growing up. We started Good Neighbours purely for thefun of it, so to be up for such a significant award at this stage of our career is the biggest honour.” Their joyous enthusiasm reflects their genuine love for music and the delightful surprises it can bring.
A Look Back at Previous Winners
The Rising Star award has been integral to highlighting upcoming talent since its creation in 2008. Previous winners have gone on to achieve phenomenal success, and this award often acts as a springboard for new artists entering the industry. Other notable recipients include the likes of Griff and FLO, who have successfully carved out their niches post-nomination.
The significance of this award cannot be understated—it not only acknowledges talent but also provides visibility and validation for artists at the beginning of their careers. Each nominee contributes to the spirit of the award, showcasing diverse styles and genres.
This year's Rising Star nominees bring fresh energy to the British music scene just as the BRIT Awards prepare for their annual celebration at the O2 Arena. Broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX, the awards show promises to be enthralling, celebrating both established and rising talents.
The winner is set to be revealed on December 5, during BBC Radio 1’s New Music Show with Jack Saunders. All eyes will undoubtedly be on the nominees as they vie for this honor, poised to launch their careers to new heights.
The Future of British Music
.With the rising stars of 2025 making their mark, the evolution of music continues to thrive, celebrating artistry, authenticity, and connection through shared experiences. The BRIT Awards Rising Star category is but one way to showcase this extraordinary new wave of talent who not only honor the music tradition of their predecessors but also push boundaries and redefine what it means to create music today.
Whether it’s Elmiene’s soulful melodies, Myles Smith’s heartfelt lyrics, or Good Neighbours’ catchy tunes, each artist embodies the passion and creativity driving the next chapter of the U.K. music scene.
Fans can look forward to celebrating these talents not just at the BRITs but throughout the year as they perform at festivals and shows, sharing their music with the world and inspiring the next generation of musicians. The BRIT Awards, which date back to 1977, continue to be one of the most prestigious platforms for recognizing excellence across the industry.
The potential these nominees hold is immense, and as they embrace this moment, they not only celebrate their achievements but also contribute to the rich history of music, ensuring their legacies influence future artists seeking to follow their paths. The Brit Awards are not just about competition but about community, creativity, and the ever-inspiring power of music.
