North East's Rising Stars Ready to Rock 2026 with Fresh Sounds!

The North East of England is quickly becoming known for its vibrant music scene, with cities like Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Sunderland, and Darlington producing some of the most exciting new talent in the country. BBC Introducing, a platform dedicated to discovering and supporting up-and-coming musicians, has highlighted ten acts that are expected to make a significant impact in 2026. Presenter Shakk Hashemi and producer Eve Kennedy have carefully selected these artists, each bringing something unique to the table.

Eternal Rin, hailing from Newcastle, is an artist who creates music that resonates with people who often feel overlooked. Her approach is thoughtful and intentional, with every song crafted to connect with listeners on a personal level. After receiving her first play on BBC Introducing North East, she quickly caught the attention of Radio 1's Rock Show. Eternal Rin has taken her time to develop her sound, moving from writing alone to performing with a full band at festivals. This year feels like the moment when all her efforts will truly come together.

Pollyfromthedirt, a performer from Darlington, stands out by embracing the raw and unpolished aspects of his music. He writes with honesty and self-awareness, drawing inspiration from his own experiences. His live performances are known for their authenticity, and he is set to play at the BBC Introducing From The Glasshouse show in February. As his music reaches a wider audience, Pollyfromthedirt is poised for greater recognition.

Heidi Curtis, another Newcastle native, has spent years refining her skills and defining her artistic identity. Her debut single has already made waves nationally, showcasing her distinctive voice and natural songwriting ability. The dedication she has shown behind the scenes is now starting to pay off, and 2026 could be her breakthrough year.

Jenna Cole has taken a unique path, working not only on her own music but also producing for other artists. Her efforts have earned her recognition from industry heavyweights like Timbaland and Nelly Furtado. Now, Jenna is stepping into the spotlight on her own terms, driven by both talent and determination.

Smith & Liddle, a duo from Middlesbrough, have found their sound and perform with confidence. Their music is influenced by classic bands like Fleetwood Mac, yet it feels fresh and relevant. They have been touring with Young Gun Silver Fox across the UK and Europe, and their strong songwriting is winning over new fans wherever they go.

Charlie Floyd, based in Newcastle, has quickly established himself as a rising star. He writes and produces his own music, which is both catchy and authentic. After being featured on BBC Introducing, his track became a favorite among listeners. Charlie's focus and productivity suggest that 2026 will be a standout year for him.

Loren Heat from Teesside brings a lively personality and a clear artistic vision to her music. Influenced by pop icons like Dua Lipa and Lady Gaga, Loren adds her own unique touch to her songs. Her careful planning and strong sense of direction are helping her make steady progress in her career.

Leazes, a band from Newcastle, have built their following through hard work and dedication. They have been selling out shows and creating music that fans love to sing along to. Their style is reminiscent of popular indie bands, and their momentum is growing as they prepare for a major performance at BBC Introducing From The Glasshouse.

Labyrinthine Oceans, a Sunderland band, are known for their ambition and commitment to their craft. Each new release shows growth and increased confidence, and their blend of personality and consistency is setting them apart from other bands.

Swindled, also from Sunderland, have perfected their sound and stage presence. Their attention to detail and experience performing together have made them a standout act. Their latest music reflects a band that knows exactly what they want to achieve.

These ten acts represent the best of the North East's music scene, and with the support of BBC Introducing, they are all set for a big year ahead. Music fans should keep an eye on these talented artists as they continue to rise.