Brit Awards 2025: All-Male Shortlist for Rising Star Highlights Emerging British Talent
The Brit Awards has announced its all-male shortlist for the 2025 Rising Star award. This award highlights British acts expected to succeed in pop music.
The nominees are:
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Elmiene (Abdala Elamin): This Oxford-born singer-songwriter creates soulful R&B inspired by artists like Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder. He has worked with Stormzy and Sampha and released his debut EP, Marking My Time, in January 2024. Elmiene plans to release his debut album in 2025, viewing it as a complete project.
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Good Neighbours: Composed of Oli Fox and Scott Verrill from East London, this indie pop duo draws influence from Bleachers and early MGMT. They released their debut single, Home, earlier this year and later re-released it after signing with Capitol Records. They are also on the BBC Sound of 2025 longlist.
- Myles Smith: This Luton songwriter is known for his hit ballad Stargazing, which peaked at No. 4 on the UK singles chart and is certified Platinum. He started as a covers artist on TikTok and signed with Sony RCA for his original work.
This shortlist is significant as it marks the first time since 2021 that male artists have been nominated. The award has been held since 2008 and was first won by Adele. A panel of music journalists, producers, and industry professionals votes for the winner, who will be announced on December 5 during BBC Radio 1’s New Music Show.