2024 in British Music

The Story of 2024

The year British music continued its global dominance through a new generation of stars. Raye's success continued, her Brit Awards sweep making her the most awarded female artist in a single ceremony. She proved that independence and streaming-savvy could triumph over the traditional label system. Charli XCX's 'Brat' became a cultural phenomenon – the 'brat summer' meme, the lime green aesthetic, the collaborative remix album with Lorde, Billie Eilish and others. It was the sound of British electronic pop at its most confident and self-aware. The album defined the summer. Coldplay continued their record-breaking tour. Taylor Swift's Eras Tour finally arrived in the UK, with massive Wembley shows. The Glastonbury Festival headliners were Dua Lipa, Coldplay and SZA, a reflection of British pop's current strength. The charts were dominated by streaming, with songs from TikTok and viral moments competing with established stars. The British drill and rap scene continued to produce new voices.