Mixtape Madness’s Ones’ To Watch List 2025

2024 was no doubt another hugely successful year for the UK music scene, and as we venture into the latter stages of January, the blueprints of another huge year are just being set. Whether it be new innovative soundscapes or reimagined takes on existing genres, the diversification of the UK music world in terms of creativity continues to call out for those with something new to bring to the table.

Scouting some of the freshest sounds so you don’t have to, here, we have comprised a list of artists that you need to keep an eye on over the next twelve months – in no particular order, below is Mixtape Madness’s One’s To Watch list for 2025.

Arka

Key Track: Soul

Hailing from Hastings, Arka is able to display his spirited personality through witty lyricism across a variety of musical backdrops. Sounding comfy across Grime, Garage, and UK Rap sounds whilst demonstrating an ear for stellar production, it feels as this is the year this artist puts it all together and finds the winning formula. Having featured on the EAFC25 soundtrack, delivering freestyles with an old school feel on his social media, and linking up with the likes of Jordy and D Double E, there is enough substance next to the personality for Arka’s future to look very bright.

BexBlu

Key Track: checkonechecktwo_

This selection could have been any one of a new wave of producers adding different instrumental elements to classic UK Rap and Grime freestyles, creating an all new subgenre in the process. Oakland, Wilfred, Hayez, Wize, afrosurrealist, and Prod. Otis are all excellent examples of this side, ushering in a new sound that could well contribute to the resurgence of Grime in 2025. BexBlu however came into his own last year thanks to multiple remix and refix tapes, as well as collaborating with Paul Stephan and being co-signed by Drake. It won’t be long before we hear his blend of the nostalgic and atmospheric production in the mainstream.

Fakemink

Key Track: Truffle

Calling your debut project ‘London’s Saviour’ demonstrates the levels of self-confidence this artist has. fakemink combines elements of Jerk Rap with at times a more considered and mellow production style that he delivers himself on FL Studios. Citing the likes of Dean Blunt, Nettspend, and Skepta as some of his biggest influences, fakemink is at the cutting edge of the UK Underground right now and can have a major say in the sonics of UK Rap music for 2025 and beyond.

Ceebo

Key Track: MEMORY LANE

Having already made our ‘Best Projects of 2024’ list, there is no doubt that Ceebo has every shot of cementing himself as a star in 2025.‘LAMBETHNOTLA’ showcased an artist with a proficiency for smart lyricism and vivid storytelling across vibrant and rich production. There was also a creativity within his use of skits that helped to give a broader perspective of the artist’s community. A fresh face in UK Rap that transcends its subgenres, Ceebo has the potential to be great this year.

RB

Key Track: 1 Flow

At just 15 years of age, this Southeast London artist is a prodigious talent. Having already been co-signed by Grime royalty Scorcher and appeared on a set with DJ AG, RB has proven himself to be an extremely exciting prospect thanks to his ability to produce effortless flows and punchlines beyond his years. With the Grime genre due to be waking up from its dormant years, RB could be in the right place at the right time to become the poster boy in its resurrection.

dexter in the newsagent

Key Track: Still Got Time

Dexter has been around for a few years now but it feels as if this could really be her breakout year. Blessed with an ability to pen incredibly emotive and visceral lyrics, coupled with an understated yet soothing vocal range, the South Londoner has all the capabilities of a true star. If you couple this with her daring and varied choices in production, Dexter can blend the acoustic with the electronic in a way that sounds so simple. With co-signs from the likes of Clint and Fred Again, we could well see the emergence of the UK’s next great singer-songwriter.

5EB

Key Track: London Tipton

5EB is a rapper and musician from North London, UK, known for his dynamic presence in the alternative hip-hop scene. He began releasing music around the age of 15, gaining significant attention with his track “5UNNY,” which amassed over 400,000 streams on SoundCloud. His energetic performances and distinctive style have positioned him as a notable figure in the UK’s alternative hip-hop movement. Despite his youth, 5EB has demonstrated a commitment to evolving as an artist while remaining true to his roots, inspiring a new generation of artists in the genre.

Reuben Aziz

Key Track: find u

Reuben Aziz is a 20-year-old singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist from Southampton, UK, now based in London. A self-taught vocalist and guitarist, he began writing music at age 10 and producing at 14. His music blends modern soul with introspective lyricism and a distinctive falsetto, drawing inspiration from artists like Frank Ocean and Daniel Caesar.

Chy Cartier

Key Track: YO

Chy Cartier, born Chyna, is a 19-year-old rapper from North London who has rapidly emerged as a significant figure in the UK’s hip-hop and drill scenes. Raised in Tottenham, she was influenced by a diverse musical environment, including genres like hip-hop, R&B, and dancehall, which have shaped her distinctive sound. Despite her rapid rise, Chy remains focused on her craft, emphasising the importance of authenticity and dedication in her work. She continues to pave her own path in the music industry, drawing inspiration from artists like Lil’ Kim, Foxy Brown, and Nicki Minaj, while maintaining a strong connection to her cultural roots and community.

YT

Key Track: Prada Or Celine

YT, also known as YungTolz, is a rapper and producer from North East London who has been making significant strides in the UK’s underground rap scene. His multifaceted approach to music and life continues to inspire many, as he seamlessly integrates his academic background with his passion for rap, contributing to the dynamic landscape of UK hip-hop.

Ceechyna

Key Track: Peggy

Ceechyna is a rising star to watch in 2025 due to her unique blend of talent, style, and the momentum she’s gaining in her career. Ceechyna stands out because she brings a fresh perspective, tapping into cultural trends that resonate with younger audiences. If her momentum continues, 2025 could very well be the year she gains wider recognition.

8SZN

Key Track: JITS

8szn is an artist to watch in 2025 due to his innovative sound and growing digital presence. Known for blending genres, collaborating with uk mainstream heavyweights, and pushing creative boundaries, 8szn appeals to Gen Z with relatable lyrics and fresh, experimental music. He also has a strong social media presence and potential collaborations with established artists could further amplify his reach. As a talent with a distinct visual aesthetic and a rising fanbase, 8szn is poised for greater industry recognition.

Alana Maria 

Key Track: 50/50

Alana Maria is one to watch in 2025 due to her unique blend of soulful vocals and genre-defying sound, which sets her apart in the music scene. With a strong ability to blend R&B, pop, and alternative influences, she’s carving out a distinctive musical identity. Alana’s emotionally charged lyrics and relatable themes resonate with listeners, especially those seeking authenticity in music. Additionally, her rising presence on social media and collaborations with key producers could help her gain significant traction.

Rian Brazil

Key Track: Close 2 u

Forged from chaos, community and high-energy raves on council estates, Brighton native Rian Brazil has shot to the forefront of the alternative rap scene, carving out a unique space for himself with the depth and complexities of his sound. Gritty, raw and genre-bending, Rian’s 2024 instalments captivated listeners worldwide, notably his latest releases ‘Close 2 U’ and ‘Breathe’. “Think, touching breakbeats associated with Mike Skinner, twinkling city-scape production, and Brazil writing about turbulent and unpredictable human connections”.

Tom Did It

Key Track: Did It Freestyle (feat. Devlin)

Having collaborated with Nafe Smallz, Chip, Sigala, Imanbek and many more, 21-year-old rising star Tom Did It is gearing up for a breakout year in 2025. Having closed the year strongly with his “Did It Freestyle” featuring rap veteran Devlin, the latter stage of this month will see him unveil his brand new single “Dreams In Colour” featuring Loski & Kirky.

Widely respected amongst the UK and International scene for his innovation and dynamic sound, the multi-talented singer, rapper, songwriter and producer came out as a guest at Nafe Smallz’s headline show in London last year to perform their highly popular track ‘L.O.V.E’. Tom Did It is destined for greatness this year.

Zino Vinci

Key Track: ‘Stratford Job Centre’ feat. Tendai

East London’s Zino Vinci is an artist who has constantly raised the bar over the last couple of years – it would be foolish not to tip him for even more success this year. 2024 saw the Newham native unveil his latest EP ‘TFL Blues’ as well as a huge collaboration with Tendai ‘Stratford Job Centre’ doing the rounds on DSPs. First tipped by Mixtape Madness at the start of 2023, Zino has now accumulated more than 220,000 monthly listeners on Spotify alone, and we wouldn’t be surprised if that figure doubled this year at all.

Fieves

Key Track: Steps

Having already garnered support from the likes of BBC Radio 1, who compared the pair to Loyle Carner, Kiss Fresh and BBC 6 Music, rising Manchester-based duo Fieves are made up of introspective lyricist Finnerz and multi-talented producer Yves’ Jones. Exploring an introspective and mellow soundscape, yet weaving elements of UK garage and electronic influence, Fieves make relatable, and heart-touching music that explores themes such as growth, connection, and addiction, comprised with a real authentic sense of musicality and originality.

namesbliss

Key Track: Iniesta Flow

Namesbliss, the London-based rhymer whose artistry is a breath of fresh air in the world of UK rap, has been carving out his own lane since 2018. Infusing grime, drill, and garage-inspired tracks with a unique sense of authenticity, he brings a fresh narrative to the scene.

Known for his ability to merge energetic anthems with deep, reflective moments, Namesbliss is quickly becoming a voice that resonates across a broad audience. His tracks range from vibrant, life-affirming beats that get the crowd hyped, to mellow, introspective cuts that make listeners pause and reflect. It’s this rare combination that makes him a stand-out talent in the UK music scene, and we foresee this year as another great one for the trailblazer.

BSav GP

Key Track : Female’s Lingo

Creator of one of the most viral tracks in 2024, Bsav GP is a fast-rising rapper from London who carries the torch for the new generation of talent coming through in the UK drill and rap scene.

With more than 500,000 monthly listeners yet only two solo singles out, 2025 promises an exciting time with the likelihood of more music dropping an ever-increasing prospect, hopefully some that seeks the same level of virality.

Contributions from Harvey Marwood, Joe Simpson, Chama Laura, R’Mello Hamilton & Danielle Holian.