BBC Radio 1Xtra announced its Hot For 2018 list on air this morning (January 8). Nick Bright unveiled the 10 UK acts from the world of black music that it tips for the year ahead.
The line-up of artists includes MOBOs 2017 performer Not3s (pictured), Lotto Boyzz, Yxng Bane, Mahalia, Fredo, Hardy Caprio, IAMDDB, Kojo Funds, One Acen and Young T and Bugsey.
DJ Target will host a special 1Xtra Hot For 2018 party during his show tonight (7-9pm) featuring interviews and exclusive tracks from some of the Hot For 2018 artists.
DJ Target said: “With 1Xtra being on the frontline when it comes to supporting emerging talent and new artists, the start of the year is always an exciting time as we look towards the year ahead at the artists that will make big moves. The 1Xtra Hot For list has always highlighted the artists we feel will excel and this year’s list is as strong as ever.”
Lotto Boyzz reacted to their inclusion: “The humbling feeling knowing our Afrobbean sound’s been recognised and we, as the face of the newly found genre, have been picked amongst the very few to be in the list for BBC 1Xtra Hot For 2018. Over the years only the very best have been able to make this list so to have a magnificent station such as BBC 1Xtra select us, is just extremely phenomenal and humbling.”
Yxng Bane added: “It's a great feeling knowing that the work I've put is recognised and acknowledged by such an establishment as BBC 1Xtra - a station that I've literally grown up listening to all my life. Being picked as Hot For 2018 is massive motivation and reassurance for me that I'm doing the right thing.”
The Hot For 2018 list is compiled by 1Xtra DJs. Last year’s list featured AJ Tracey, Dave, Jorja Smith, Ray BLK, Mist and Stefflon Don and in previous years nods have gone to J Hus (2016), Bugzy Malone (2016), Mabel (2016), Rag’N’Bone Man (2015), Stormzy (2015), Sam Smith (2014), Krept & Konan (2014) and The Weeknd (2013).
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