BBC Sound of 2009: Florence and the Machine

Fifteen of the best rising music stars have been announced as the longlist for the BBC's Sound of 2009.

The Big Pink Empire of the Sun Kid Cudi Little Boots Passion Pit

Dan Black Florence and the Machine La Roux Master Shortie The Temper Trap

VV Brown Frankmusik Lady GaGa Mumford & Sons White Lies

A quirky singer-songwriter in the grand tradition of Kate Bush, Bjork or PJ Harvey, Florence Welch makes music that is familiar, joyful and accessible while still uncompromising, fresh and eccentric.

Accompanied by a harp and scary clowns on stage, her live shows have earned her a sizeable following over the past 12 months and her debut album has been produced by Simian Mobile Disco's James Ford, who helped shape the Klaxons' sound.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version