Performers
RONI SIZE’s whole life has been about building something new from whatever was around him. From Bristol youthclub parties, through the white heat of rave and the founding moments of jungle and drum’n’bass, to transforming underground electronic music into something that could be played by a live band on the biggest arena and festival stages, he has at each stage created completely afresh - not just a sound or style but an entire methodology of how music can be made. And each time, that new creation has reflected his heritage, his surroundings and the precise moment in which he’s operating. 20-years ago, The Mercury Prize win for his ‘New Forms’ album brought D’n’B to the forefront of dance-music news, making even the rest of the industry – where reactions had up until that point been bemused – sit up and pay attention. For several years thereafter Roni and team were on top of the world, succeeding as solo artists as well as a collective, maintaining underground credibility yet receiving Brit awards and even collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip hop.
GEMMA FOX. When it comes to the rich history of UK dance music, Gemma Fox stands as a true pioneer. With her unmistakable voice, trailblazing artistry, and genre-defining contributions to Bassline and Grime, she has been a cornerstone of the scene for over two decades. As one of first female vocalists of the two genres, her music has become an integral part of the UK’s musical legacy, earning her widespread acclaim and influence across radio, streaming platforms, and beyond. Gemma’s journey began in 2001 with the release of So Messy on Middle Row Records. The track became a landmark moment, earning the honor of being the first ever to air on BBC 1Xtra during its launch, alongside her exclusive track Xtra Dangerous. So Messy was an instant hit, gaining massive radio play, selling thousands of units, and solidifying Gemma’s position as a force to be reckoned with in UK urban music.
SOWETO KINCH. Award winning alto-saxophonist and MC Soweto Kinch is one of the most exciting and versatile musicians in both the British jazz and hip hop scenes. Undoubtedly, one of the few artists in either genre with a degree in Modern History from Oxford University, he has amassed an impressive list of accolades and awards on both sides of the Atlantic – including two MOBO Awards for Best Jazz Act (2003, 2007), and Mercury Prize Nomination for Album of the Year (2003). More recently, Kinch has extended his work in music media becoming the main presenter for BBC Radio 3’s flagship daily jazz show ‘Round Midnight. With an impressive discography that has covered a wide range of themes from the Seven Deadly Sins to slavery/emancipation – Soweto’s music has seen him tour extensively with his own ensembles as well as forging lasting collaborations from the US, India to Australia and Sudan to Brazil. In 2013, Kinch presented a stage performance of his concept album The Legend of the Mike Smith at Birmingham Repertory Theatre – which toured at The Belgrade Theatre (Coventry), The Albany (Deptford), Banlieux Bleues (Paris), and Chat’s Palace (Hackney). Nonagram his 2016 release, is an exploration of sacred geometry, and the healing properties of sound in an age of division.
JayaHadADream: Jamaican-Irish rapper JayaHadADream is known for her introspective yet hard-hitting style, drawing heavy influence from grime and hip hop. Raised in Cambridge, she found her artistic voice in Nottingham, where her music began to flourish. Her signature sound—marked by raw storytelling and emotive delivery —has captivated audiences everywhere, from intimate venues to the UK’s biggest festivals. In 2024, she made a major breakthrough by winning the Glastonbury Emerging Talent Competition, securing a coveted spot on one of the festival's main stages. Since then, she has lit up Reading, Leeds, Boomtown, and more, cementing her presence in the UK music scene.Her talent has landed her on major platforms, including BBC 1Xtra’s Sounds Of The Verse freestyle with Sir Spyro, as well as sets and freestyles on Balamii, Rinse FM, Reprezent, Travs Presents, JDZ Media, and Red Bull. Her music continues to earn regular airplay on BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra. With recognition from influential artists like Mick Jenkins, Ghetts, and Stormzy, JayaHadADream is quickly becoming one of the most exciting voices in UK rap.
ACMC is a well-known versatile MC from the UK Drum n Bass scene. He was awarded Best Breakthrough MC at the 2018 Drum & bass Awards and has sold over 50,000 copies of his hiphop cds on the streets of the UK. He has had top 10 videos on MTV Base, Channel U / AKA, B4U, Zee Music and Britasia. He has had his hiphop songs played on 1xtra, Radio 1, Kiss fm, Choice fm and has had top 10s on the BBC Asian network chart. In 2012 he was awarded and IKWRO True Honour award for his song 'True Story' and performed in the modern opera "Pop'pea" as a rapping Praetorian Guard of Emperor Nero, with Carl Barat of the Libertines and Marc Almond of Softcell. From BBC Maida Vale live sessions to worldwide tours, performing on the same bill as artists like Wu-tang Clan, Capone and Noreaga, Common, Akala, The Outlawz, Sway, Jay Sean, Juggy D, Chip, N-dubz, Klashnekoff, Panjabi mc, Neyo, Marques Houston, AC has been an active presence in music for years.
PARIS CESVETTE stands as a luminary in the music industry, recognised worldwide for her unparalleled talent as a music producer and highly sought- after DJ. With a career spanning decades, Paris has continually pushed the boundaries of sound, earning her a place among the most esteemed figures in contemporary music. Paris Cesvette's DJ sets are a testament to her remarkable ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating a sonic experience that transcends conventional boundaries. Her sets are marked by their infectious energy, flawless transitions, and an intuitive understanding of crowd dynamics. From soulful house to electrifying beats, Paris curates an unforgettable journey for her audiences.
QUEEN MILLZ isn’t about to be silenced. A silver-tongued rapper from Leicester, she spent 2020 battling against preconceptions, releasing a string of fantastic singles that moved from style to style. But then came lockdown, and the world changed. Instead of being defeated, though, Queen Millz changed too – a social media star, her freestyles earned shout-outs from her peers, and took her all the way from IG Live to ITV News. Her track ‘Suffocating’ with heavy bass DJ pioneer AC Slater and Qlank became an absolute anthem, a multi-million stream hit named the official theme song for EDC Vegas last year; cheeky single ‘Mill$’ and emotional SB:TV freestyle ‘Hear Me Out’ illustrated her breadth – at times, it feels as though there’s nothing she can’t achieve. Opening 2022 with the aptly-titled ‘Winner’, Millz then switched it up with the body positive hymn ‘Body & Shape’ and the hella-cheeky R&B-tinged ‘Real One’. It’s clear that you judge Queen Millz at your peril – something the sheer breadth on ‘Causing A Scene’ makes clear. She’s leading from the front. In an era dominated by feature-culture, Queen Millz is prioritising her own voice, and speaking her truth in the process. Taking charge of the visuals for each release, Queen Millz is a true 360 threat: a songwriter who excels in the studio, an emphatic live artist, and a voice who you simply cannot ignore.
ABHI, a rising Punjabi artist whose music transcends genres, blending traditional sounds with modern influences. Known for his versatility, he seamlessly merges trap, hip-hop, R&B, and Punjabi folk to create a fresh, dynamic sound. With a passion for storytelling, Abhi's tracks speak to love, ambition, and the realities of life. His unique style is a reflection of his journey—a young artist determined to push boundaries and make his mark on the global music scene. Keep an eye on Abhi as he continues to evolve and redefine what it means to be a modern Punjabi artist.
CHANTELLE MARQUEZ: a raw, rebellious songwriter turning pain into powerful music Her debut single, Pint In London, earned BBC Radio 1 recognition, showcasing her unfiltered lyricism and bold energy. After leaving the care system and navigating London’s underworld, Chantelle found music as her way out—turning her troubled past into art that resonates deeply. With comparisons to Lily Allen, The Streets, and M.I.A., she’s redefining the UK music scene
Meet DAMAN HAYER: an up-and-coming rapper with ambition, grit, and a sound like no other. Born in Hong Kong and now repping Birmingham, Daman fuses his Punjabi roots with English edge to create bold, unapologetically unique music. His hard-hitting lyrics and cultural pride redefine what Punjabi rap sounds like—this is just the beginning.
AMBER SAQLADI. At the crossroads of country, folk, pop & rock stands Yemeni-British artist Amber Saqladi From heartfelt ballads to anthemic tracks, her music speaks for those who feel unheard. Her latest single, Siren Song, premiered on bbcintroducing and is a rock-infused anthem of heartbreak and feminine rage. With her debut EP on the way, produced by multi-platinum King Tut, Amber is redefining UK country music for a new generation
FLYNNY O'FLYNN is a pioneering grime MC from Leicester, UK, whose vibrant presence and innovative sound are reshaping the music landscape. As a proud LGBTQ+ artist of British and Irish heritage, Flynny brings a fresh and authentic voice to the grime scene, infused with her unique Leicester accent and dynamic musical influences. Her artistry extends beyond the mic. A multifaceted talent, Flynny is also a skilled producer, audio engineer, and graphic designer. Her engineering and graphic design work has earned her credits on projects with artists such as Kamakaze, Deanoh, JJEsko, & TFace, showcasing her versatility & creative vision.
HARRI GEORGIO. Tipped as BBC Introducing’s ‘Hot for 2024’ with his oncoming wave of 'not so well-behaved Indie Pop', UK artist & producer Harri Georgio sits in a lane of his own. Fusing his love of Rock and Indie with elements of Rap, Reggae and Electronic Music, Harri is fast gaining national support from the likes of BBC Introducing, Radio 1 and 6 Music with tastemakers such as Tom Robinson , David Rodigan, Alyx Holcombe and Dean Jackson to name a few. Performing alongside his live band 'The Well-Behaved Young Men', sharing the stage with acts such as Fun Lovin' Criminals, Dub Pistols, The Skints, The Skinner Brothers and more, Harri and the bands' high energy live shows have been making noise across the national circuit, landing them on the line-up of YNot Festival and as the headliners of Brewbeat Festival 2024. His latest single 'Bad Habits' tells tales of getting up to no good and late nights on the town with the lads, ‘Bad Habits’ , the first release from his forthcoming debut EP fuses Harri’s Indie Rock influences with his love of Drum & Bass and Electronic Music.
JADA O'NEILL is an R&B singer-songwriter whose music captures raw emotion and honest storytelling. Based in Leicester, she blends smooth, soulful vocals with introspective lyrics that dive deep into themes of self-discovery, love, and vulnerability. Her sound is both classic and contemporary, offering a refreshing take on R&B that resonates with listeners on a personal level. Whether performing acoustic sets or fully produced tracks, her voice carries a warmth and sincerity that leaves a lasting impression. Carving out a space in R&B where vulnerability meets undeniable talent, creating music that’s as timeless as it is heartfelt. im just a bajan gal that makes rnb in Leicester
JAKE THOMPSON is a singer-songwriter from Leicester/ Leicestershire, UK, whose journey into music began at the tender age of 9 when he picked up his first guitar. Starting with lessons and experimenting with different cover styles, Jake performed his first "proper" gig at just 12 years old at a local pub. From that moment, his passion for music flourished as he honed his skills in guitar, vocals, and other instruments. During his college years, Jake discovered his talent for songwriting, a skill he initially doubted. By channeling his feelings, personal experiences, and observations of the world around him, he developed a unique style of storytelling through music. At 19, Jake released his debut single, a self-produced track that quickly caught the attention of BBC Music Introducing East Midlands. The song was featured multiple times, earning the coveted Track of the Week title and securing the ongoing support of BBC Introducing. Jake is now managed by HQ Familia, an award-winning label and artist management company that continues to help him grow and thrive in his career. With a strong and growing team behind him, he is focused on writing new music, collaborating with talented creatives, and booking studio sessions to refine his sound.
KHUSHI KAUR, a UK-born Punjabi singer from Nottingham, is quickly emerging as a formidable talent in the UK’s vibrant music scene. With a distinct voice and a unique blend of traditional Indian musical training and modern influences, Khushi is set to carve out a lasting legacy in the world of Punjabi music. Khushi Kaur is not just a singer; she is a dynamic force committed to pushing boundaries and creating music that resonates across cultures and generations. Her journey from performing at small community events to gracing major music charts is a testament to her dedication, talent, and vision. As she continues to release new music and collaborate with renowned artists, Khushi remains steadfast in her mission to bring authentic female representation to the forefront of Punjabi music. With her exceptional vocal abilities, deep-rooted passion for music, and a growing body of work that resonates with audiences worldwide, Khushi Kaur is poised to become one of the leading voices in the global Punjabi music scene.
JP GILL, born in Punjab, India, is an independent artist and songwriter currently living in England. From an early age, he discovered a deep passion for music, inspired by the energetic rhythms and powerful storytelling of hip-hop. JP’s work reflects a blend of traditional Punjabi elements with contemporary beats, showcasing his diverse influences and unique perspective. As he continues to develop his artistry, he is focused on releasing exciting new tracks that highlight his creative vision. With a dedication to connecting with fans around the world, JP Gill is poised to make a significant impact on the global music scene.
NIKI KINI: At just 22, is already a powerhouse in the music scene. Starting on YouTube at 13, the singer-songwriter has worked with icons like RAYE and Rina Sawayama. Known for her sultry vocals and playful, honest lyrics, Niki’s RnB-tinged alternative pop has earned her accolades like Bobby Friction’s youngest-ever Artist of the Week (BBC Asian Network) and Future Hits Radio’s Track of the Year 2024. As a 100% independent artist, Niki Kini stays true to herself and her music, making waves with every track
KIZ OFFICIAL is a rising artist from Leicester, UK, whose musical career began in June 2021, following the global disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. KIZ’s early work centred around experimenting with different flows, genres, and tempos to convey the depth and emotion behind his sound, which he refers to as The Gift of The Gab. Since then, his style has developed into a distinctive blend of UK rap, house, and drum & bass, with further explorations into drill and Detroit styles. Collaborating with international producers, Kiz continues to refine his craft and push the boundaries of his music.
MATT BURY is a genre-blending artist crafting infectious grooves and soulful melodies that bridge the gap between indie, R&B, and alternative pop. Inspired by the smooth guitar work of Tom Misch and the raw energy of Dominic Fike, his talent has already earned recognition, with his track Unknown Lover being featured as BBC Introducing’s Track of the Week, signaling his rise as an artist to watch.
Studiowyzz is carving his name into the UK music scene, blending chill drill with melodic storytelling. His debut track No Drop with FKJ surpassed 10M streams, earning him a spot at No. 14 on BBC Introducing’s Most Played. A Youth Music Rising Star nominee, he’s also collaborated with Shiloh Dynasty and secured support from Spotify editorials. His debut EP, Two Sides of the Heart, showcased his versatility, and he was selected to open the BBC Maida Vale Rap Cypher. With over 15M streams and influences from Jay Critch, Northside Benji, and Lil 2z, Studiowyzz is set to make 2025 his biggest year yet.
T O SOUL is an artist and producer who unapologetically bridges the raw intensity of UK grime with the smooth depth of traditional R&B, creating a sound that’s as captivating as it is commanding. With his fierce lyricism, T O Soul doesn’t shy away from the truth—his words are direct, bold, and unfiltered. His music grabs your attention and keeps it, effortlessly blending two powerful genres to craft a sound that’s as unique as his unapologetic approach to storytelling. Whether he’s spitting hard-hitting bars or delivering soulful melodies, T O Soul’s tracks demand to be heard.
THE OLD BOY. Hailing from all over, THE OLD BOY plays an eclectic mix of soul, jazz, rare groove, funk, house, garage, hip hop; hitting that sweet spot between ol' skool, nu skool and soulful. Like granary bread with the seeds; wholesome...edgy on the outside, warm in the middle! THE OLD BOY has played most of Leicester's haunts over the past 3 decades; resident for The Original Four, backroom for Miss. Moneypennys, Revolution locally & nationally and after parties for touring acts passing through Birmingham's concert arenas circuit. He has also graced the airwaves on local radio. And still plays vinyl if that aesthetic lends itself well to the ambience. Currently, proud to be working with HQ on an array of projects.
Y-ZER is a distinguished female Drum and Bass vocalist hailing from Kent, England, who has been presenting her music on a global scale since 2017. Her career trajectory is on a rapid ascent, marked by an unceasing flow of music, festival appearances, and live performances. Y-Zer is known for her exceptional dedication and ambition, continually expanding her creative horizons both independently and through collaborations with prominent figures in the music industry. Her successful collaborations include the track "Try More" featuring Mollie Collins and other notable works like "Path," which have significantly amplified her presence in the music scene. Y-Zer played a pivotal role in a tour alongside Mr. Traumatik, following their collaboration on the track "Hallucinations." The release of her exciting EP "Doing It Differently" and the distinctive album “Versatility,” which features collaborations with artists such as Exile, Fatman D, Mr. Traumatik, and Amplify, underscores her commitment to diving headfirst into ambitious projects. This proactive approach in her career led P Money & Whiney to feature her on their most recent album “Streets, Love & Other Stuff,” released under Hospital Records during the lockdown. Y-Zer's dynamic performances have graced numerous prestigious stages, including Glastonbury, Hospitality on the Beach, Westfest, Boomtown Festival, Love Saves The Day, and various venues across Europe. Her latest endeavor, “Triple Threat,” is a collaborative MC-led Drum & Bass act from Kent, featuring Harry Shotta, Tiny K, & DJ Ironlung, showcasing their remarkable synergy both onstage and off. Her contributions to the genre were recognized when she was awarded 'Best Female MC' at the Drum and Bass Awards in 2021. As a 24-year-old artist thriving in a predominantly male industry, Y-Zer continues to forge ahead, making significant strides with her lyrical prowess and innovative moves, promising a bright future ahead.
THE BASSMENT PRESENTS, a DJ who effortlessly mixes everything from Jazz, Funk, Hip Hop, and more. Hailing from Florida, The Basement Presents has curated some of the most memorable events across the states and the UK, known for setting the perfect mood wherever he plays.
SIMON PHILLIPS: Soulful Session AKA Simon Phillips has been involved in all aspects of the media as a profession at over the course of the last 24 years. From his humble beginnings from Pirate Radio in his hometown of Leicester gaining recognition to then feature in Nottingham, Birmingham & as far a field as Scotland in the early 90’s to then eventually heading south for Regular TV appearances on Channel 5’s Wright stuff, MTV Base, The Lick, The Mobo Awards, The Brits, BBC’s Liquid News as the man in the know when it comes to what’s hot in the world of music.
Tayo is a modern singer-songwriter with an old soul. His voice, style and music feel like heartbreak wrapped in velvet.