A Thamesmead musician has joined some of the UK’s best emerging talent as YouTube unveils its first ever ‘Ones to Watch’ artist spotlight.

Samm Henshaw made the video platform’s top 10 list of UK artists to watch out for in the new year, joining the likes of east London’s grime and spoken word talent Kojey Radical and south London-raised rapper Octavian.

Other acts to have their artistry recognised include Mahalia, Slowthai, Jade Bird, L Devine, Sam Fender, Grace Carter and Dermot Kennedy.

This inspiring new list of talent has been compiled by YouTube Music based on a variety of factors, including YouTube views, engagement from global music fans and YouTube Music analytics. Topping the list is Birmingham-based R&B singer Mahalia, who has racked up over 100,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel.

Commenting on the announcement, Samm said: “It’s been an exciting year for me, and this recognition from YouTube Music has topped it off.

“I’ve been touring my new music and working with some amazing artists, I’m looking forward to seeing what 2019 holds.”

The singer-songwriter also alluded to a new single which he will be releasing in January.

Head of music partnerships at Youtube UK, Azi Eftekhari said: “This is a year of UK artists doing their own thing. With the freedom musicians now have to express themselves not just sonically, but visually, it’s perhaps unsurprising that this list only features solo artists, many of whom are genuinely pushing artistic and visual boundaries. One thing is certain - YouTube continues to be an unmatched launchpad for emerging artists, and 2019 is set to be a huge year for homegrown UK talent.”