Top 5 New UK Pop Artists

The internet is swooning over the layered harmonies and R&B riffs of 2023 chart-topper FLO. Their viral debut Cardboard Box hints at Destiny’s Child and TLC.

Ed Sheeran remains at the top of PPL’s most-played list, despite his muted new album +. His success speaks to the longevity of his music, but also the financial importance of the UK pop genre.

Lily Allen

With a blend of pop, ska and reggae, as well as her witty lyrics about fame, relationships and societal issues, Lily Allen has established herself as a unique British pop artist. Born on May 2nd, 1985 in London, she has released five studio albums including Alright Still (2006), It’s Not Me It’s You (2009) and Sheezus (2014).

In 2005, she made her vocal recordings public on MySpace, garnering tens of thousands of fans and leading to airplay on BBC Radio 1 and a deal with Regal Records. Her debut single, “Smile,” reached number one on the UK Singles Chart in 2006, followed by her first album, Alright Still.

Allen has also ventured into acting and entrepreneurship, and has a line of beauty products and a fashion line under the name Lucy Loves. Away from music, she is an active philanthropist and a mother to two children. She also hosts a television talk show, Lily Allen and Friends, on BBC Three.

Rita Ora

Rita Ora has risen to fame since her debut single “How We Do (Party)” was released in 2012. The song has become an international hit and is a testament to her undeniable talent. It showcases her ability to blend her diverse musical influences into one cohesive sound.

The song’s infectious beats and catchy chorus melodies have resonated with audiences around the world, making it one of the most popular dance tracks in recent history. Its empowering lyrics about living life to the fullest have also resonated with fans.

Born in Kosovo, Rita Ora has achieved global success through her hard work and determination. The Roc Nation singer has released chart-topping albums and has collaborated with many notable artists. In addition to her music career, she has starred in the Fifty Shades of Grey film series and has a fashion line with Giuseppe Zanotti. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, New Zealand director Taika Waititi.

James Arthur

British singer James Arthur rose to fame after winning the ninth series of The X Factor in 2012. His debut single, a cover of Shontelle’s “Impossible”, became a massive hit and sold more than 2.3 million copies worldwide. It was also the fastest-selling X Factor winner’s single in history.

In 2021, he released the song “Roses”, a poignant and introspective ballad that showcases his emotional range and soulful vocals. The song depicts the aftermath of a broken relationship, and is inspired by Arthur’s own experiences.

James Arthur has a similar sound to Lewis Capaldi, but his music is more acoustic and intimate. He’s also a good live performer and has opened for both Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith in the past. He has a lot of potential in the future, and we’re looking forward to hearing more from him!

Sam Smith

Sam Smith has been on a steady climb up the charts since their debut album in 2013. Their ethereal falsetto and emotional lyrics resonate with a broad range of listeners. Their music has dealt with themes of heartbreak, loss, and self-love.

The singer rose to prominence with their collaboration with Disclosure on the song ‘Latch,’ and their subsequent hit album ‘In the Lonely Hour’ brought them worldwide success. Since then, Smith has gone on to release several more albums, winning many accolades along the way.

Samuel Frederick Smith was born in Cambridgeshire, England, and began singing at a young age. They were raised by their parents who encouraged them to sing in local theater productions and jazz bands. Smith is openly gay and uses they/them pronouns. Their most recent single, ‘Gimme,’ features reggae artist Koffee. It showcases a reimagined sound for Sam’s musicality, a reawakening of lyrical desire over a bold, brazen beat. The track’s release was marred by body shamers and trolls, but the majority of the public rallied to support the star.