BBC Radio 1Xtra has named fifteen exciting acts from the world of black music on the station’s Hot For 2019 list. The list, compiled annually by 1Xtra DJs and staff, predicts which artists are set for success over the next twelve months.
They are (in alphabetical order):
· Aitch
· Alicai Harley
· Amber-Mark
· Ambush
· Daniel Caesar
· D Block Europe
· DigDat
· Hamzaa
· Koffee
· Octavian
· Roddy Ricch
· Rygin King
· slowthai
· Tiana Major9
· Unknown T
1Xtra’s DJ Target will host a special 1Xtra Hot For 2019 party live from Maida Vale on 22 January, 7 – 9pm, featuring interviews and exclusive tracks from some of the Hot For 2019 artists, including Koffee, Alicai Harley, DigDat and Unknown T.
Aitch says: “Crazy… 1Xtra Hot for 2019! It’s definitely going to be a mad year! Big Up 1Xtra.”
Alicai Harley says: “I feel beyond blessed to be named as one of 1Xtra's Hot For 2019 artists. This means the world and more to me. Thank you so much 1Xtra for all your love and support!"
Hamzaa says: “Thank you so much for making me one of 1Xtra’s Hot For 2019 artists. I’ve spent so long listening and finding new music through 1Xtra and so for this, I am so, so grateful. Thanks 1Xtra for the continuous support!”
Unknown T says: “Big up 1Xtra for putting me in their Hot for 2019 list. I appreciate all the support! Also big up my fans for making this possible.”
DJ Target says: ”For me, this year’s list is a real cross section of artists, and we’ve opened it up to include international artists as well. I think musically, 2019 will be our most exciting year to date, and this year’s Hot For list does a great job of reflecting that. We’re expecting some real breakthrough stories from these artists this year.”
1Xtra is committed to championing new black music and breaking new UK artists. The Hot For 2018 list featured the likes of Fredo, Not3s, Kojo Funds and Mahalia.
Further Hot For alumni include Jorja Smith (2017), Stefflon Don (2017) Bugzy Malone (2016), Mabel (2016), Stormzy (2015), Krept & Konan (2014) and The Weeknd (2013).
