Meet Cleo Sol, a 20-year-old singer from West London who writes her own songs and has recently signed to Island Records.
Cleo's growing success is something that can not be ignored. After releasing independent teaser single, High, last Spetember, she was picked up by BBC Radio 1xtra, Choice FM, BBC Radio 1, Kiss FM as well as 4Music, MTV Base and The Box, who all played her track.
She had started song-writing when she was just 16. Four years on, this talented girl from Ladbroke Grove was about to hit the big time.
Two weekends ago, we caught Cleo performing at London's Wireless Festival. She played a pretty distinguished set before Rihanna was due to headline.
Impressed? Definitely. So we thought we'd get in there now before she's too famous to remember us. Here's what Cleo had to say...
Hi Cleo, tell us - what inspired you to get into singing?
"My mum used to play a lot of motown on her record player and my dad played his reggae. So listening to those sounds really got me thinking about it. I just found that when I got to 11, I was listening to girl groups like TLC, Destiny's Child and then it was Alicia Keys and other R&B singers. Stevie Wonder has to be my ultimate inspiration though."
Brilliant choice, why Stevie?
"I really like his music and if you listen closely, you'll hear he sings about some pretty controversial stuff. Just sometimes he does it over pretty melodies so you don't hear it! I really admire him for that."
You're entering into a world where everyone will start knowing your name - are you nervous about being famous?
"Not at all, it's really cool that this is all happening. I feel like I have such genuine support from everyone and I'm trying to really enjoy myself. I don't want to worry or get stressed out - the main thing is I enjoy the experience."
You're good mates with Tinie Tempah and Wretch 32 - have they given you any advice on getting into the music industry?
"I haven't actually spoken to Tinie in a while but I always bump into Wretch. Rather than ask for advice, I have noticed the way he goes about things - he's inspired me with his work ethic. Also, he seems to have a real balance of his work and personal life which I know is not easy. I admire him for it."
Who would be your dream collaboration?
It'd have to be Stevie Wonder. Or someone like Jay-Z. I would never go to another artist and ask for that though - I'd prefer if they approached me, because then I'd know I was worthy. I never want to be too big for my boots; I'd like them to say, 'I would like to work with you because I respect you' and that's when I'd say, 'Wow, yes!'."
Find out more about Cleo and listen to her music at
http://cleosol.com
