UK-based Nigerian singer, Ray BLK, was recently awarded the winner of BBC Sound Of 2017. The ‘BBC Sound Of’ is an annual poll collected by music critics and industry figures geared towards finding the most promising new talent. A 15 act longlist is usually released every December before artists are ranked in a shortlist with a winner announced in the following month.

RayBLK was shortlisted alongside Nadia Rose, Rag’n’Bone Man, Jorja Smith, and RAYE. The singer also beat favourites like Dr. Dre’s Protege, Anderson .Paak, Drake collaborator Dave, Grime rapper AJ Tracey, and more who were also listed on the prior-released longlist.

WOW! I am this years winner of the @BBCmusic #Soundof2017 😳 can’t believe it! This is such a moment for me & many other people being the first unsigned artist to top the list. This has taught me that anything is possible, even when the odds are against you. Thank you so much everyone! 🙏🏾 Patience is also Track of the Day at @bbcradio1 so tune in to check it. Love x

A photo posted by Ray blizzy🌬 (@rayblk) on Jan 6, 2017 at 2:48am PST

In a recent interview, Ray commented: “Winning the BBC sound of 2017 has to be the most surprising thing that’s happened to me thus far”

“I feel so honoured to have topped the list this early in my career and join such an incredible alumni of winners. Thank you so much to the BBC and all the voters! I’m particularly proud to be a part of this year’s list as it’s full of so much talent, some of whom are independent artists like myself which I really hope inspires the next generation of artists.” She added.

Past winners include Adele, Sam Smith, and Haim, who have gone on to be nominated for GRAMMY awards. We’re tipping our hats off for Ray BLK to join their ranks too.

Take a look at her SoundCloud to get a feel of her music.

Featured Image Credit: RayBLK/Instagram