We speak to this year's eight Future Sound of Nottingham finalists

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How would you describe your music? 

I always say it’s pop music but idk if that’s super accurate, I’ll let you decide.

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final? 

😱

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance? 

Music.

Why did you enter FSN? 

I live in Nottingham and Rock City is one of my dream venues, when I was 17 I went to watch a gig there and it blew my adolescent mind. I still can’t believe I’m gonna be playing there. 

Who are your biggest musical influences? 

Hard Life, Dominic Fike, Pulp, Queen

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute? 

EmiDora is sick, I shared a stage with her at Metronome, she’s a cool person also. Window Kid I’ve loved for years I would love to go for a Heineken 0 with him.

What are your biggest non-musical influences? 

My mum influences me to be a better person every single day. My Dad’s alright as well.

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

Probably supporting Good Neighbours at The Bodega. I’ve been very fortunate to get played on Radio 1 a few times and  chatting to Dean Jackson in his studio was cool as well, I hope he can make the Rock City gig.

Any last words for LeftLion? 

Free Palestine.

EMILY ALICE

How would you describe your music? 

My music is the perfect mix between pop and singer-songwriter. I write music which captures certain emotions and I feel you can hear that within my melodies and lyrics which work hand-in-hand, effortlessly together. 

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final? 

I cried aha. I was packing to go on a little trip away and knew the announcement was coming that day. Every part of me was praying I had got it, but I honestly did not think I had a chance. The notification came through on my apple watch that I had been tagged in FSN's Instagram, and I just cried. This truly is going to be a career highlight for me, it's the biggest opportunity I have ever had. Em three years ago would never have believed that this was happening, and I cannot thank the team at FSN enough for the opportunity. 

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance? 

The Rock City crowd can expect a flipping good performance. I am playing with my 5 piece band, and we can promise energy, excitement and pure musical passion on that stage. Relatable songs, about day-to-day experiences, my songs have something for everyone, and we cannot wait to play on the main stage! 

Why did you enter FSN? 

I entered FSN because of how incredible the opportunities are that they offer. Living in Nottingham, Rock City is my go to venue for a lot of gigs. FSN offering us the opportunity to play on the main stage means offering 8 artists an opportunity to play on a stage in which a lot of us, especially me, did not think would ever be possible, so I thought I may as well try. In regard to the Splendour Festival, the notion is very similar. A festival I felt was unreachable for me, FSN is ground-breaking in offering such opportunities to independent artists, and one I knew I had to at least try for.

Who are your biggest musical influences? 

My biggest musical influences are Alanis Morrissette, Maggie Rogers and Lizzy McAlpine. All artists I love listening to, I feel my music very much encapsulates many similarities to these artists. 

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute? 

I am absolutely loving Dorothy Ella and Josie Beth. Both of these girls' music is so fun, so relatable and beautifully written, and I would recommend anyone reading to go and listen to their music asap if you haven't already. 

What are your biggest non-musical influences? 

I am a massive lover of the gym and running. A daily non-negotiable for me, fitness influences my life every day, and I am even running the London Marathon 2026 too!! That is very much pushing me out of my comfort zone, but what shouts influence more than something pushing me on to better myself time and time again. Despite being very different, I do find that achieving fitness goals pushes me to achieve better goals in my music, and vice versa. Both music and fitness push me to my best every day, and I love it.

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

I think it is impossible for me to sum up the highlights of my career so far into one, so I have a couple. I played at Dot To Dot Festival in May. Much like Rock City, playing Dot To Dot was something I always dreamt about, but never thought would happen. When it did I just could not believe it. A true highlight so far. A second would be playing my first headline show in March at The Grove in town. The first show with my wonderful band, again a headline show is something I have always aspired to do, and it was truly incredible. 

Any last words for LeftLion? 

Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to chat to you!! 

MEGS

How would you describe your music?

My music is always introspective. Even though each track might sound a little different sonically, there’s always a common thread of self-reflection, growth, and vulnerability. Everything I release explores a different part of myself and I think my voice and phrasing tie it all together.

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final?

I was sooooo excited to return to the Rock City stage! It felt like a full-circle moment. I’ve grown a lot as an artist and performer since the last time I did FSN, so this feels like a chance to show that.

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance?

Expect to sing along, vibe out, a lot of bold energy, unreleased bangers and a goooooooooooooood time!

Why did you enter FSN?

I entered because I wanted to give this more developed version of myself a shot at the Rock City stage. I did FSN in 2023, and while I am beyond proud of my performance, I know I could push myself even further this time. It’s about showing myself how much I’ve grown and celebrating that!

Who are your biggest musical influences?

Erykah Badu will always be top of the list that’s my mother. Right now, I’d for sure have to say Doechii, Sasha Keable, RAYE, Sade, just artists who really know how to command a stage by themselves. I’ve also been drawing a lot of inspiration from artists like Rico Nasty, Baby Tate, Amyl and the Sniffers and Willow, they’ve definitely helped me unlock a more raw, fearless side of performing and just self expression in general. Honestly, the list is endless!

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute?

The girls are taking over and I’m very much here for it! Katie, Saffron Gray, Courtney, PheB, Molly in the Metro, SHVVN, just to name a few! Everyone’s stepping into new eras and levelling up creatively. It’s so inspiring to watch and I love it!

What are your biggest non-musical influences?

Pop culture, for sure. Things like Bratz, Winx Club, Glee, basically all the media I devoured growing up that my mum assumed I’d grow out of by now (spoiler: I haven’t). My Ghanaian heritage is another huge influence, the way I wear my jewellery, style my outfits, and do my makeup is all inspired by the women I grew up around. I just remix it with bits of UK culture, charity shop finds, and my inner weird girl.

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

Most recently, I’d say being supported by BBC Radio 1 and named as one of their “for fans of Doechii” picks was surreal. I’m such a huge fan of hers, so to be placed in that realm was a real pinch-me moment. Huge love to Dean Jackson and Jess Izzat for backing me!

Any last words for LeftLion?

Keep an eye out for meeee! My debut EP Soundscape drops in October, and the lead single Big Purr - which comes out on the 7 July (if you know, you know) - hasn’t even dropped yet and it’s already had Radio 1 support. I’m deep in my fake-it-till-you-make-it era, so be ready for a whole lot more ;)

MOLLY IN THE METRO 

How would you describe your music?

I would describe my music as very personal and story telling, it’s inspired by real life situations and I’m always very passionate when I write my songs! Recently I have been exploring the indie alternative genre more but in general I’m very fluid, trying not to put my discography in one specific box.

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final?

I was so happy to find out I’d been chosen to be in the FSN final! I was having a creative block and burn out for some time now, so this news definitely felt like a sign to keep doing what I love and a proof that you never know what opportunities might emerge!

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance?

The Rock City crowd can expect not only some new music but also cowboys, ties, lots of fun and a little workout! 

Why did you enter FSN? 

I entered FSN as I love my hometown Nottingham and have wanted to play at Splendour for a number of years now; not only would it mean a lot because of the exposure but also because family could be there and it’s always so amazing to play in front of your loved ones. I always try to perform at a lot of venues and take on opportunities I’m given so this has been a blessing to have been accepted!

Who are your biggest musical influences?

My current biggest musical influences I would say would range from KWN, Lizzie McApline and Searows! They’re all incredible

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute?

I love a number of Nottingham artists who are competing at FSN especially Saffron Gray and megs. Of course I have to shout out the super talented Jayahadadream as well who is well known to Nottingham and the UK now!

What are your biggest non-musical influences?

My biggest non-musical influences would be my queer identity and the community that comes with it, my partner who inspires me everyday, and my creative family.

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

The highlight of my career so far I would have to say has been performing on the main stage at Nottingham Pride a couple of years ago, headlining some amazing venues with my band and being able to release the music that I have.

Any last words for LeftLion?

I’d like to thank Elliot, Sinead, Abi and Kit for travelling from London to support me at FSN final, my friends and family and good luck to all the contestants! Fingers crossed I’ll see you at splendour & stay tuned for a new album in the works.

LOUIE WALSH

How would you describe your music?

Hearty, authentic and versatile

What was your reaction to the news you'd be playing the FSN final?

I think I'd just woken up so I was a little dazed and confused. I then went downstairs to tell my parents and within five minutes I was told to empty the dishwasher; not exactly the reaction I wanted. Let me have my pop star moment. Good way to stay humble though!

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance?

Fire! (Not literally as that’s against the health and safety measure) You can also expect new tunes. One of which will be the first time playing live

Why did you enter FSN?

I’d played it before and I don’t think it was open for artists that had played it before in the past and then I clocked I could apply again, I didn’t really expect much from it. I only checked in the morning for Emily Alice, little did I know I’d see my name there too! 

Who are your biggest musical influences?

Ed Sheeran is always at the top of my list, without The A-team I doubt I’d have ever pursued a career in music, I guess another one would be the cast in camp rock as the first ever song I sang was from that movie when I was six!

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute?

I genuinely believe that at the moment Notts has one of, if not the best independent music scenes. My fav Notts artists are definitely the Plush Method, Jackary and Holly Humberstone (although I think she’s technically just outside of Notts) 

What are your biggest non-musical influences?

I think my family. My mum and dad are super supportive of my music and my sister too. My brother is also an artist so I guess it’s a bit of a competition with him. We try and better each other.

What's been the highlight of your career so far?

Playing Rock City for the second time!! I was so content with the first time being the last and now I get to do it again? You’ve gotta be having me on! I’d also say just being able to have accessibility to the arts. It’s something everyone with a voice or talent dreams of. I’m definitely not taking it for granted!

Any last words for LeftLion?

My second EP Take A Seat is out today (4th July) so please, please, please give that a listen. No song is the same, in fact I’d say that every song sounds different to each other! Anyway! Over and out! See you on the 6th.

BENJI ROMEO 

How would you describe your music?

I make indie-pop songs about love, loss, and heartbreak. Expect to hear cinematic ballads and upbeat catchy tunes.

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final? 

I couldn’t believe it. I face-timed my mum straight away. It felt super surreal.

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance

Expect lots of energy and a heartfelt performance. Also expect some unreleased music ;)

Why did you enter FSN? 

I entered FSN because it's such an amazing opportunity for artists like myself to get themselves out there and play Nottingham’s most iconic venue.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

I would say my sound is directly influenced by indie-pop artists like LANY and The 1975. Artistically I’m also hugely influenced by the likes of Frank Ocean and Kid Cudi.

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute?

I think I have to say ex FSN finalist Tom Shawcroft. I think he’s made consistently good music over the years, plus he really showed me the ropes when I was just starting out years ago.

What are your biggest non-musical influences?

I love film. I’m a massive horror fan, but I also love a good drama. I’m quite into my fashion too, and I think that bleeds a lot into who I am as an artist. FYI, my favourite designer is Ralph Lauren.

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

I made my debut album, which I also have vinyl copies of. Holding a physical copy of my own music for the first time was unlike anything else.

Any last words for LeftLion?

I just can’t wait to get up on that stage and show everybody who Benji Romeo is. It’s gonna be a great night.

ARCHY & THE ASTRONAUTS

How would you describe your music?

High energy, high voltage… high five. If you’re into big riffs and even bigger choruses, you’ll probably get a kick out of what we do. Think Royal Blood meets Muse with a bit of beautiful chaos thrown in.

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final?

We were absolutely buzzing and also a bit confused. Travis hadn’t told any of us he’d entered, so when Archy and Nathan saw we were tagged in a “congrats finalists” post, the group chat blew up. Total disbelief but pure excitement too.

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance?

We’re bringing the full force. Riffs, sweat, and a set that’ll drag you right into the moment. Expect to sing, jump, maybe even head bang a little too hard. We feed off the crowd, so don’t hold back. If you’re in, we’re all in.

Why did you enter FSN?

Rock City has been the dream venue since day one. FSN felt like the perfect challenge, a chance to take everything we’ve built and boil it down into one explosive, all or nothing set. And the chance to play the Splendour main stage? Unreal. No brainer.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

As a band, we gravitate toward Royal Blood, Nothing But Thieves, The Amazons, and Muse. But our individual tastes are all over the place. Trav’s got a soft spot for The Killers, Archy somehow weaves in Billy Joel, and Nathan probably listens to more Britney Spears than he lets on.

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute?

River Drive and Shadows of a Silhouette are killing it in the East Midlands. They’re good mates of ours and it’s been amazing to watch them grow. We’ve also loved diving into the other FSN finalists because everyone brings something totally unique. Nottingham is full of serious talent right now.

What are your biggest non-musical influences?

Honestly, our families and close friends. They’ve stuck with us from the very start, even at those midweek gigs where the only people in the room were them. Special shout outs to Tim and Tom for making rehearsals and recording sessions possible. If we ever hit it big, they’re getting VIP passes for life.

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

Travelling to New York to play the Kids Rock for Kids festival has been a real highlight. It’s always an incredible experience and brings us closer as a band. But honestly, stepping onto the Rock City stage might just top it. Ask us again after the gig.

Any last words for LeftLion?

Thanks for giving a platform to bands like us. We’re proud to be part of Nottingham’s music scene. Now let’s make some noise.

SAFFRON GRAY

How would you describe your music? 

My music is a soulful blend of R&B with gospel roots, layered with raw emotion and modern flair. It speaks to the real love, anxiety, heartbreak, healing, and the struggles we often hide. I use my voice like a journal, capturing moments of vulnerability, strength, and desire. My music is made for anyone who’s ever felt too much and needed a song that gets it. I like to call it soul therapy, wrapped in a melody

What was your reaction to the news you’d be playing the FSN final? 

I literally screamed, jumped out of bed, and cried/prayed thanking God!

What can the Rock City crowd expect from your performance?

We will have so much fun! Go on a journey, but most importantly have fun.

Why did you enter FSN? 

I entered FSN as in am in a “crazy faith” era in my career I quit my job a few months ago and since then I have been putting my self forward for loads of different things, going to open mics in different cities, it started busking and just placing myself anywhere I can be heard.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

Brandy, Ella Mai, Aaliyah, Summer Walker, Jhene Aiko and Beyoncé.

What Nottingham artists are you loving at the minute? 

NAO, Katie and Shvvn.

What are your biggest non-musical influences? 

Life experiences, faith journey, relationships/friendships, Mental Health challenges

What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

Going busking and creating a community online (TikTok) reaching 10k followers.

Any last words for LeftLion? 

Make sure you head down to catch me with my live band, it will be a performance to remember - come and make the loudest noise also to enjoy your self it will be a brilliant line up. I will also be hosting my own release party on 25 July.

The 2025 Future Sounds of Nottingham final takes place at Rock City on Sunday 6 July. Entry is free with no ticket required. The final scores are decided via a mixture of Industry Professionals scores, plus crowd vote.