Michael Kiwanuka: 10 facts about the BBC's Sound of 2012

Since its first list of promising young talent was announced in 2003, the BBC's annual Sound Of poll quickly established itself as the leader of the yearly ones-to-watch lists.

And its tips for success have rarely proved wrong; previous winners of the accolade include Jessie J, Adele, Keane, Corinne Bailey-Rae and, erm, 50 Cent.

With this year's winner announced as Michael Kiwanuka - who was chosen by 160 critics, BBC tastemakers, radio hosts and DJs - Digital Spy has gone in search of more information about the rising star.

He's 24 years old and grew up in Muswell Hill, North London.

He is signed to Communion Records, which is part of Polydor.

His music is described as "folk-inflected modern soul".

He cites his main influences as Bill Withers, Bob Dylan, Nina Simone, Otis Redding, Joni Mitchell and Tommy Sims.

His first major TV appearance was performing alongside Red Hot Chili Peppers and Bjork on Later…With Jools Holland.

He supported Adele's 2011 tour dates, which he described as "the most nerve-racking thing of my life".

He is still learning how to use Facebook and Twitter.

He studied jazz guitar at the Royal College of Music for two years before deciding to embark on a singing career.

So far he's released two EPs, called 'Tell Me A Tale' and 'I'm Getting Ready'.

His first proper single, 'Home Again', is out now. The album of the same name follows on March 26.

Watch the music video for 'Home Again' below:



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