STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Sam Smith And 5 Other British Crooners You Need To Know

Every couple of years, a crop of young British singers invade U.S. airwaves, top the charts and dominate the press. This year is no different thanks to artists like John Newman and Sam Smith. Both are leading the charge with their infectious hits, "Love Me Again" and "Money On My Mind," respectively. But these two are not alone. Also generating buzz are newcomers Sampha, Sohn and Tom Odell, as well as Alex Clare who surfaced stateside in 2013. These guys represent a new wave of British Crooners that you need to know this summer.

Alex Clare

[mtvn_player vid="1048553"]

Many fans are probably familiar with Clare, who popped thanks to a Microsoft Internet Explore 9 commercial, which featured "Too Close." Since then, he's made the rounds at major music festivals while working on his sophomore album, Three Hearts, which is due July 21. The first single, "War Rages On," increases the energy first heard by fans on "Too Close."

John Newman

[mtvn_player vid="907228"]

Coming out of the gates early, Newman debuted in the U.S. earlier this year. His hit, "Love Me Again," mixed EDM with retro-R&B sounds that made it impossible for fans not to get up and dance. Since then he's been heard on several VH1 shows and featured in commercials in the States. Newman will next be heard on Calvin Harris' latest single, "Blame."

Tom Odell

[mtvn_player vid="981258"]

After earning accolades from critics for his EP, Odell released his first studio album, Long Way Down, last summer. Since then, he's been building buzz for his heart-felt, piano-driven pop ballads. Dubbed an artist to watch by MTV, Odell is ripe for a big career in the U.S. Plus, his live performances are amazing.

Sampha

A thoughtful R&B singer, Sampha got the Internet excited with his Dual EP. The collection showcased a singer focused on other things besides shaking booty in the clubs. He followed the hype with a feature on Drake's new album, Nothing Was the Same. Sampha was featured on the piano-driven single, "Too Much."

Sam Smith

[mtvn_player vid="1026969"]

What else can we say about this singer that hasn't been said in his month-long residency as VH1's You Oughta Know artist? The crooner is burning up the charts with his latest single, "Stay With Me," which has been remixed to feature Mary J Blige. How's that for breaking big?

Sohn

Like Newman, this London-born singer is mixing R&B sounds with EDM to create a fresh blend of pop music. After producing music for HAIM and Angel Haze, Sohn is stepping into the spotlight with his debut album, Tremors. Expect more from the singer who already calls Miguel and Lorde his fans.

[Photo: Getty]