A singer-songwriter from Bristol has been named one of the world's top rising stars by Fender.
The renowned guitar manufacturer has revealed the 25 global artists who make up its Fender Next programme, who are 'expanding the world of guitar' - including soul sensation Yola.
As part of the programme, artists get access to a number of top resources such as Fender’s industry-leading guitars, amps and more - as well as the chance to share their story and music with Fender's massive worldwide fanbase.
The inaugural Fender Next programme ran last year and included Sam Fender, Little Simz and Bristol's IDLES, who all went on to become nominated for top accolades around the world including BRITs, the Mercury Prize and Grammys.
Yola has already experienced what it's like to be nominated for the Grammys after picking up four nominations for this year's awards.
The Fender Next group of 2020 includes 25 rising artists across different genres, generations, genders and backgrounds who are expanding the world of guitar in music and culture.
The artists were hand-selected by Fender’s artist marketing team via an industry-wide submission process and span genres such as pop, country/Americana, R&B, hip hop, indie and alternative rock.
This diverse group is more than 50 percent female and represents the face of guitar around the world, with acts hailing from 10 countries across five continents.
Other artists to make the cut alongside Yola include Black Pumas from the US, Australian outfit Eliza & The Delusionals and Joy Crookes, Bones and Easy Life, who are all UK-based.
"It has been incredibly heartening to watch the Fender Next alumni - who we have often had relationships with since the very beginning of their careers - go on to enjoy huge success," said Neil Whitcher, Head of Artist Relations at Fender.
"Fender Next encapsulates an elite of artists who are doing completely unique and brilliant things with guitar and bass but have one thing in common – they are all excelling in their respective fields.
"The 2020 class features some truly exceptional players and Fender can’t wait to support as their careers unfold."
For more information, visit Fender's website.
