Best Music You Haven’t Heard Yet
Yesterday, the BBC revealed the 15 names vying for its “Sound of…” prize, now in its 10th year. It is voted on by music journalists, editors, bloggers and broadcasters, as well as DJs, all labelled by the BBC as “tastemakers”. Next month, the artist who receives the most votes will be named the Sound of 2012, as one of a top five. I’m especially high on Azealia Banks (pictured). Recently named by the NME as the “coolest person on the planet,” Banks is full of potential. The young Harlem-based rapper’s reputation, thus far, rests largely on the back of one track, “212“: her vocals drip with attitude as she spits filthy lyrics over scattergun electro beats. Banks has signed with Polydor UK and is making an album with producer Paul Epworth – known for his work with Florence + the Machine, Friendly Fires and Plan B.
