BBC Sound of 2025: Chappell Roan kicks off the new year by topping the BBC’s annual list

• Chappell Roan’s meteoric rise continues early in 2025.
• The pop star, set to headline Leeds and Reading 2025, has been crowned the winner of BBC Sound of 2025.
• The honour, selected by a panel of 180 experts, shines a light on the most exciting emerging musicians you can expect to talk about in the next 12 months

Chappell Roan’s 2025 continues where her meteoric rise left off last year, as the “Midwest Princess” has been crowned the winner of the BBC Sound of 2025.

The prestigious honour, selected by a panel of over 180 industry experts and artists—including Sir Elton John and Dua Lipa—shines a spotlight on the most exciting emerging music talent.

Chappell Roan has won the annual BBC Sound of... for 2025. | Getty Images

Chappell Roan rose to prominence in 2024 following the release of her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, in September 2023. The album, featuring standout singles such as "Red Wine Supernova," "Casual," "Pink Pony Club," and "Hot to Go," soared to the top of the UK charts and secured the number two spot in the US.

Beyond this recognition, Roan has earned six Grammy nominations and is poised to headline major festivals in 2025, including Reading and Leeds in the UK and Primavera in Barcelona.

The BBC Sound of... award is an annual celebration of rising stars in the music industry, spotlighting artists who are expected to make a major impact in the coming year. Introduced in 2003, the award has built a reputation for identifying breakthrough talent across a wide range of genres.

Previous recipients, including Adele, Sam Smith, and HAIM, have gone on to enjoy global success, cementing the award as a key milestone for emerging artists.

Who else appeared on the BBC Sound of 2025 final shortlist?

The final five saw two Mercury Prize winning acts included, with English Teacher (2024’s winner) and Ezra Collective (2023’s winner) earning fifth and second place respectively, while Myles Smith, who is set to tour the country this year, coming in fourth position in 2025’s list.

Known for his emotionally resonant beats and smooth production, Barry Can’t Swim’s ability to captivate listeners with his unique take on house and downtempo sounds led him to finish third on the 2025 list.

BBC Sound of 2025 - top five artists

1. Chappell Roan
2. Ezra Collective
3. Barry Can’t Swim
4. Myles Smith
5. English Teacher

Chappell Roan is performing as part of 2025’s Leeds and Reading Festivals, with tickets still on sale today for the events through Ticketmaster. Pick up a ticket today to be part of Roan’s history-making performance.