Michael Kiwanuka tops BBC Sound of 2012 list

Soul singer Michael Kiwanuka has been voted top spot in the BBC Sound of 2012 list.

24-year-old Kiwanuka has already supported Adele on tour.

The Sound of 2012 list was compiled using tips from 184 key UK-based music critics, broadcasters and bloggers.
Now in its tenth year, previous winners include Jessie J, Adele, Mika, Ellie Goulding, Corinne Bailey Rae and Keane.

The top five acts were:

• 1. Michael Kiwanuka - interview & videos
• 2. Frank Ocean - interview & videos
• 3. Azealia Banks - interview & videos
• 4. Skrillex - interview & videos
• 5. Niki & The Dove - interview & videos

Kiwanuka, from London, cites influences ranging from Otis Redding and Bob Dylan to Miles Davis.
He first started as a session guitarist, working with Tinie Tempah's producer Labrinth, before stepping in front of the microphone and signing to the Communion label, which was set up by Mumford and Sons' Ben Lovett.
He said: "I never expected to be recognised in this way. I feel very honoured and humble to have won".
The list was compiled using tips from 184 influential tastemakers, who each named their favourite three new acts.

Previous Sound of... winners

• Sound of 2011: Jessie J
• Sound of 2010: Ellie Goulding
• Sound of 2009: Little Boots
• Sound of 2008: Adele
• Sound of 2007: Mika
• Sound of 2006: Corinne Bailey Rae
• Sound of 2005: The Bravery
• Sound of 2004: Keane
• Sound of 2003: 50 Cent

The participants ranged from music magazine editors and newspaper critics to respected bloggers, DJs and radio and TV producers.