As we all should be greatly aware of right now, good music does not come from the United States solely. Artists like Adele, Lorde, Sam Smith, Shakira, Rihanna, Iggy Azalea, Charli XCX, 5 Seconds of Summer, and Jessie J have brought their international success to the Billboard charts and American fandom. But they are not the only ones.
Number Five: Labrinth. Most people from here might know this ultra-talented singer/songwriter/producer from the United Kingdom through his hit single, ““Beneath You’re Beautiful,” featuring the lovely Emeli Sande. This artist has written for many great acts in the UK such as Tinie Tempah, Professor Green, and Yasmin. This great artist has also worked with one of the best in the business in Ed Sheeran, and is a platinum- songwriter having co-written Tinie Tempah’s smash hit, “Pass Out.” His debut album Electronic Earth was an instant success, after having worked on it for 2 years. He is also signed to Syco Records, owned by American Idol man Simon Cowell himself. His new single “Jealous” is out now on iTunes.
Number Four: Rizzle Kicks. This ultra-dope duo is nothing simply short of amazing. Although they have hits that crept into the U.S. for a short time such as “Down With the Trumpets,” “When I Was a Youngster,” and “Mama Do the Hump,” they still have yet to be truly known abroad in the states. Having caught the attention of mega hit-maker Pharrell Williams and having been co-signed by Ed Sheeran, these two young men from Brighton, England will be making waves sometime in the near future.
Number Three: Wretch 32. An awesome rapper, who has had many singles, and great success in Europe, with singles such as “Traktor,” “Don’t Go,” and his recent single “6 Words.” With co-signs from well-known collaborators Ed Sheeran and Example, this rapper from Tottenham, London is sure to set fire in the United States someday.
Number Two: Ella Eyre. So young, but the music says otherwise; just so smooth and mature. Her recent singles “If I Go,” and “Comeback,” are surefire hits, it just takes the right ear to catch it, which we are sure it will. 2014 BRIT Award for Best Newcomer under her belt could never do her wrong.
Number One: Melissa Steel. Lovely young lady whose reggae roots landed her an awesome hit single, “Kisses For Breakfast,” featuring Jamaican hitmaker Popcaan. Melissa is looking to make serious waves, just as her ex-classmate Zayn Malik is doing at this moment, selling out arenas all over the world and landing number one singles on Billboard chart.