#GUAP30 ‘A Great Day In Ldn’ : MEET THE COVER STARS

#GUAP30 is an ode to the people contributing to and leading the wave of everything new, innovative and authentic within music and beyond. We’ve featured 23 artists pushing the bounds of the UK’s sonic landscape – from hyper pop to hyper hip hop , Punk Rock, Soul, Rnb, Folk and ,to be honest, genres which are yet to be defined. There is something here for and by everyone. Get to know them all below

ALEXANDER BENJAMIN, 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

My music is a complete 3 dimensional embodiment of Hip-Hop that samples Soul, Rock & Roll, Pop, Reggae & Jazz. 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Listen to Mr & Mrs Smith, it’s me at my most vulnerable…

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

I think it’s gonna look like the 60s where we’ll have loads of high calibre UK bred music that travels all around the world, except in our case we don’t rock bowl cuts and turtle necks… we got dreadlocks and flared pants. 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels good to be making music at this time. A lot of artists from the UK have covered a lot of things which means we stand on their shoulders but don’t have to follow them. Grime was great, “Road Rap” as they call it was also great – they both definitely allowed us to have a certain confidence in our tone of voice as Black Brits. 

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

I’m going to continue to tell the story. At the moment it’s all kind of up in the air, no one really understands what’s going on with me and my relationship with Benzalli. I hope by the end of the year it will all be clear exactly who I am and what I’m here to do. 

BZ, 20

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

I’d say that my music has got a feel of Africa and my ends, I like to mix the urban sounds of London with Ghanian street culture.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

I would say No Rules because it shows how I am as a person the most from my personality to my roots.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

Apart from me (Get ready for the litness) I would say the connection between the underground scene to the masses becoming greater.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels amazing to be recognised as one because I’m just living my dream and seeing people buy into it and support makes me feel like I’m doing something right.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

More bangers for your head top!

bib sama. | 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

A unique experience with a familiar feeling

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Honestly, I’d have to go for the intro “IN THE END” off of my latest project. I feel like it really encompasses the experience I was talking about with the way it builds up and transitions from section to section whilst borrowing from nostalgic arcade-like sounds for that sense of familiarity.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

For the first time, I feel like my generation of artists and the ones to come aren’t limited sonically or mentally by what being a ‘UK Artist’ has typically meant up to this point. We’re really just doing whatever we want and because of that, I feel we’re making the best music the UK has ever heard.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

Honestly I only really realised I was a part of it a couple months ago. Typically I just focus on making the best art I can but it’s humbling being associated with other crazy acts. It feels cool for real.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

With my tape that dropped a couple weeks ago, expect another music video, a physical release & maybe a remix hehehe. As for later on in the year, who knows? Maybe even another project if PLATINUS gets enough love!

BINA. , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

Imagine watching a Netflix film about yourself in a dark room with no doors, curtains drawn, no exit, just you and your secrets and shadows, but you have one of those cosy fleece blankets to comfort you – that’s what my music feels like. 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Just A Sec – I think it’s one of the rawest songs I’ve ever written. I like to challenge myself and see how deep into my feelings and quiet struggles I can dig.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The U.K. scene is full of artists doing what they want sonically. Ignoring rules, ignoring traditions. Just being and expressing. I’m one of such artists. It’s beautiful to see and be part of such a scene.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels so good to be myself and still connect with more and more of the world each time I share a piece of myself through my music. I think that because so many of us artists coming up are just doing what we want, it doesn’t feel like we’re vying for one singular top spot – there’s room for us to all be heard and recognised.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Expect me to get more raw. More expressive. More music for everyone to FEEL to. I’m making a world in which everyone is welcome to cry, laugh, scream, make love, sit still – whatever. Just feel that shit fully. To my music.

Downtown Kayoto, 21

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

It sounds like the experiences of a Black boy layered over instrumentals of how he’s feeling at that moment in time.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

If you like pop and want to ease into things probably Karma Called, but every song is different from each other so i put a buffet in front of you and you can pick and choose what’s in line with your pallet. 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

It’s beginning to reflect and represent a diverse population of people and experiences , all unique but important all the same.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels cool, like I just wanna make stuff and put it out and to think that there’s people who are a fan of my shit Is crazy cuz they could be doing literally anything else.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

More music, with each release building off the last <3

DEELA, 20

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

DEELA’s music sounds fierce and daring. It feels like a shot of adrenaline, instantly energising you. 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

I would say my latest single ‘TRAPSTAR’. It’s a true definition of who I am and what my sound is evolving into right now. 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The versatility of every coming up artist is amazing. We have a huge wave of artists creating their own lanes and it’s very exciting to witness. 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels great! It also feels even better being acknowledged by GUAP as a top 30 underground artist on the come up. I did not envision myself making music in the future but I’m so happy I was introduced to it and I cannot wait to drop new things I’m working on. 

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

I’m planning on dropping a double single titled “Whatchu mean/Anyways” August 26th alongside some visuals to go with it later in the year. I’m taking my time to perfect my songs for my next tape/album in 2023. This year was all about music videos, performing more and experimenting with different beats and genres of music. 

Dessireé , 23

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

My music feels like a soulful evening with a full glass of white wine – red if you’re  feeling sexy.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Hmmm ‘peppermint tea’ because it’s a good introduction to the evening, however ‘change your ways’ is my personal favourite. 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The fact that there’s no more boundaries. Both sonically and externally. As artists all we really need is ourselves and the ppl that love our music to navigate the industry. 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels good to be recognised for your art.  

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

bangers x 

EFÉ , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

Like a hazy summer’s day but you keep getting jump scared by synth sounds .

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

LIME !! I think it is quite different  in its  ideas and so just so fun to sing along to especially at the concerts

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

That there has been really really cool music videos coming out

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels cool, I think there is a bit of a shift happening .

I just wanna make it :’)

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Possibly new music and finally doing my own show !!! Which is exciting as well as going on tour with still woozy!

Zino Vinci , 23

In one sentence describe what your music feels/sounds like? 

Smooth and quite lyrical but not in the lyrical-miracle type of way(I’d like to think).

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Baby Blue, I think that this being the first song on my first project made it already very special. I chose it to be the first thing people heard in hopes that it could entice people to continue to listen, and I think this song does just that.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The fact that everyone is so different in not only how they approach music, but how they present themselves. This just leads me to believe that the future of UK music is going to be more diverse and sonically interesting.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

Very daunting if I’m honest. I tend to deal with a lot of imposter syndrome, which leaves me feeling like I’m not actually meant to be here and maybe someday someone will realise it. That being said, for someone who just makes songs at the foot of their bed, I’d say the reaction to my music has softened the feeling of not belonging.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Way more music and visual elements. I’m really into cinematography and want my music to have amazing visuals. Not only that, I feel like my personality is a huge part of “Zino Vinci” so a chance to show that off more in any capacity would be great.

Gail , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

So far I’ve enjoyed writing lyrically driven indie-pop songs about love and heartbreak. 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

My song ‘Gaslight’ because it’s my favourite song I’ve released so far and I’m really proud of the writing and in love with everything my producer Nathan did with it! 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

More diversity of perspectives in so many different genres and how much new music there is to discover.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

Really cool! I’m excited for my musical future, making more friends in the scene, writing better tunes and releasing more!

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Possibly another EP release before the year is out! But that is to be confirmed! 

Kasien , 2022

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

The Hulk on molly (the come up and the come down) 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

6ft Under . Everyone that’s heard it likes it . So do i.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

More diversity when it comes to sonics and genre blending . More referencing to old UK sounds that represent the country.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

Feels good! I’m happy to be recognised. Happy to be here.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

New project , more shows , more presence 

Len , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

It sounds like meeting someone & in the first 5 mins you just know they’re going home with you

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Listen to Brand New Bih, I feel like it’s fresh. It’s the easiest way to get it like “Rahhh okaaay, thats whats going on over here” 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The Unity & the potential collabs. Essentially everyone knows each other, everyone chills with each other. It’s a crossover episode at every party or studio session. It feels like family. Families support each other. And as a Unit, units take over

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels good, it feels like it makes sense. Things are changing & to be at the forefront is the best place to be. You can’t be inspired when you’re all alone. I’m glad there’s others pushing music to new heights

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

The rest of the year you can expect nothing but carnage

Monét , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

my music makes you feel super chill 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

 I’d say definitely listen to “Just One Of Those Days” because I feel like it’s a good introduction to who I am and what my musics about 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

Honestly I’m just excited to see all my musically talented friends succeed. I feel like this scene has so many crazy new sounds that gives music a completely new feel. I’m excited to see how well that translates to the wider public. 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

 I definitely feel privileged to be a part of such a talented and diverse bunch of people. It always makes me excited to release new music again. 

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Now that I’m finished with uni and have more time on my hands you can definitely expect some new sounds, visuals and collaborations ! 

MaZz , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

I want my music to feel vulnerable, I want people to feel like they are getting to know me and my experiences through my music. 

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

I would say listen to ‘I Hate myself in <3’ as I would say it’s my most vulnerable song to date and probably my favourite. 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

I think the sheer feeling of community that exists within this scene; most of the artists are not only fellow creatives but friends, which is such a nice feeling. 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Expect to see more music, lots of collaborations and hopefully me experimenting even more with my music. 

Mrley , 24

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

Diverse but not “alternative”. I think that word has lost its edge ahah.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Well I’ve only released 1 project comprised of my first ever demos and I don’t think it reflects where I am musically today. So if I’m being honest I’d tell you to come to a live show and hear the new music. But if I had to choose one I’d say ‘so much to say’ as It’s the first song I ever wrote as ‘mrley’ so it will always be close to my heart.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

That it’s about to be Out with the old and in with the new… if I have to watch another person rent an Airbnb with pink neon lights and then proceed to fill it with video vixens and AU vodka bottles I’m going to have to change my nationality.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It’s exciting. There’s this feeling in the air that something brand new is happening. Also coming from where I’m from, I’m one of only a handful of people doing rock music right now. So if I’m being honest, the fact there isn’t too much competition, means I can still sleep at night aha.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

 I’ve spent the last year writing 100s of demos with my team and have finally narrowed it down to my favourite 16 tracks. So expect to see some new releases and a lot of new material at the live shows. In fact I’ll be releasing a new single within the next month or so. So keep a look out for that. 

OG KEMi , 22

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

It feels like a neighbourhood fairytale, chaotic nostalgia and intrusive thoughts.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Serenity because it’s one of the first tracks I co-produced and I was able to deliver the exact experience and feeling I designed for my fans in my head.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

We aren’t waiting for opportunities, We are making opportunities for ourselves and our peers. 

We don’t need the industry, they need us. We have the leverage and we know it, which is scary for the industry; they can’t bump us, we are way too educated and tapped in for that. That being said, PIERRE & SIE are two artists who excite me the most, they are the future for me & I’m going to make sure everyone knows it.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

Feels cool. I had no clue I was involved but its nice to be appreciated.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

More shows, my first music video, my first headline show and my next project called LONGLIVEKEMI

Strandz , 21

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

Influenced by my Nigerian roots and love for 90s New York Hip-Hop, my music is refreshing to one generation and nostalgic to another.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

‘Don’t Let Them See You Cry’ because it encapsulates the energy of my movement and it really slaps on speakers.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

I’m excited about the sonic evolution that the UK is so in need of, being part of that uprising and pioneering a sound of my own is a big part of why I do what I do 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It’s a good feeling that comes with a lot of pressure, but pressure drives me so I guess it’s a win-win 

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Of course more heat, collabs that make really sense, pushing the sound I’ve developed further – as well as things I’m involved with outside of music

Sariah Rowe , 20

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

My music feels like the things I can’t say

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why?

For someone who hasn’t heard my music they should listen to ‘p.b.e’ first because I think it’s a nice introduction to my style of writing 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

I’m excited to see how unconventional collaboration can influence our future music world. There’s an inevitable togetherness and respect that’s formed between musicians and other creatives. I think building on that is key to helping create a space that is uniquely ours. Pushing new perspectives on how to navigate through music and it’s ever changing culture is something to look forward too and we have to make sure it’s articulated with passion

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

I’m really honoured to be around so many incredible peeps. I feel like it’s super special that we’re so aware and surrounded by each other. I’m grateful for their dedication and love for the art. It’s encouraging and strengthens the connection I have to my work further.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

I hope to showcase some more of my song writing. My songs are an extension of me in particular moments and we all feel similarly at times. Expect more stories and the continuation of sharing sound with people and projects I’m passionate about.

5EB AKA. FENDI5IVE AKA FENDIAVELLI THE 1ST AKA THEKNKRTHIPPY , 19

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

Ethereal, motivational, the future

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Listen to KNKRTHIPPY. Fukk just listening to one song and missing the greater vision

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

Taking risks

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

Me n tribe. I respect the new wave but truly I don’t really care, I’m on my own shit.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Life changing audio frequencies

Sam Dotia , 25

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

As an introduction to my music I’d say new listeners should start with Requiem 48 leading into Uriah’s cry; the purest form of my artistry — me and my guitar.

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The lowered Barrier to entry actually really excites me about the future of the uk music scene because now we’re able to take in more peoples stories and I always find it interesting to hear about the people around me.

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

I feel absolutely blessed to be a part of the new wave of artists because we’re already so diverse, everyone is doing their own thing and It’s inspiring to see and be involved.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

I’ve always said, “people are like Rubik’s cubes” there’s a multitude of ways people can be configured, for the rest of the year I’m hoping to show you more of the different sides of who I am.

SYMM WORLD , 23

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

I would say my music is all about feeling confident. I want anyone who listens to feel super on top of the world. And the content is always about stunting on people who never believed in you…I want people to feel powerful.

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

For now, SYM SZN as it shows me as my best compared to other tracks, but in the next few months I have even better music on the way 

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

The diversity. Everyone is doing something different and unique in the underground scene, so I can’t wait to see them at the forefront and become mainstream one day!

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

It feels surreal. I’ve always wanted to do music from young so it feels crazy, but I definitely still have a way to go. In a years’ time I am hoping to become even more established 

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

Consistent music and content! And I’m hoping in December to drop my first ever mixtape. So excited for the next year because I have so many unreleased fire songs.

Scuti , 21

In one sentence, describe what your music feels / sounds like? 

Real intoxication

For someone who hasn’t listened to your music before, what song should they listen to first and why? 

Skoowup – I feel like it’s a good introduction for them to be in love with Scuti

What excites you about the future of the UK’s upcoming music scene?

There’s a new wave of people that are not scared to try out new sounds now, it’s like the ceiling has been removed – there is no limit. 

How does it feel to be a part of the new wave of artists coming up right now? 

I don’t know, it just feels like I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing. That’s all that matters to me.

What can we expect to see from you for the rest of the year? 

I named myself after the largest star to ever be discovered in this universe, you’re going to see me 

FIMI GUERRERO , 20