Sigrid, the “Don’t Kill My Vibe” singer now aims to showcase the most exciting new music for the year ahead. She was voted for by some 170 industry experts, DJs, festival bookers, critics and former winners.
Aged just 21, Sigrid is one of the youngest ever artists to receive the honor – beaten only by Adele, who was 19 when she topped the 2008 list. The prize honors 10 new, European bands or artists whom reached audiences outside their home territory.
Related: Passionate Norwegian Singer/Songwriter
“It’s quite crazy to get this recognition,” said Sigrid, who is signed to Island/Universal and released her debut single “Don’t Kill My Vibe” in February last year. “It’s a huge honor,” she told the BBC. “I don’t know how to explain it.”
Last year was a massive year for Sigrid. After launching her debut single in February, she has performed late night shows and festivals around the world and written a score in the new Justice League movie.
Related: Norwegian Electronica Artist André Bratten
Sigrid Solbakk Raabe was born in Ålesund, Norway and taught to play piano at an early stage. However, she didn’t consider writing her own music until four years ago when her musician brother Tellef Raabe, encouraged her to write her own music instead of playing Adele covers. Now she is switching confidently between fragile ballads and feisty pop bangers. BBC Radio 1’s Annie Mac called her “literally the perfect pop star” and “an absolute pleasure to play on the radio”.
This marks the fifth consecutive year a Norwegian artist receives the award, with Nico & Vinz (2014), Todd Terje (2015), Aurora (2016) and Alan Walker (2017) all having won the prize before her.
Related: Norwegian Rap Duo Madcon Hits the Charts
“Helping these artists reach a wider audience is a key part of BBC Music’s mission,” stated James Stirling, BBC Music’s head of content commissioning. He said the diverse range of acts “clearly demonstrates both the quality and breadth of music currently coming through.”
The top five winners are:
1. Sigrid
2. Rex Orange County
3. IAMDDB
4. Khalid
5. Pale Waves
Sigrid from Norway Winner of BBC Music Sound of 2018 Poll, written by Tor Kjolberg