2014 in British Music

The Story of 2014

Ed Sheeran's 'x' (multiply) was the year's biggest British album, 'Sing', 'Thinking Out Loud' and 'Don't' making him the biggest male pop star in the world. His rise from busker to global phenomenon was complete. Sam Smith's 'In the Lonely Hour' was enormous, 'Stay With Me' and 'Lay Me Down' making him the voice of heartbreak. He won the Brit Awards Critics' Choice and the Grammy for Best New Artist. George Ezra's 'Wanted on Voyage' with 'Budapest' was a charming, unlikely hit. One Direction were still massive, 'Four' their fourth album. The 1975 released their self-titled debut, a slick, self-aware pop-rock album that divided critics but won a massive following. Royal Blood's self-titled debut was a two-piece rock sensation, winning the Mercury Prize and proving guitar music could still excite. Clean Bandit's 'Rather Be' was the year's most joyful single. Taylor Swift's '1989' dominated globally. British music was in a strong place, though grime was simmering beneath the surface – Skepta's 'That's Not Me' was released, signalling grime's comeback.