Discover the Rising Stars of Glastonbury 2023: Five Must-See Newcomers

The Glastonbury Festival is a music event that has captivated audiences for decades, with its focus on big names and a mix of veteran artists and up-and-coming talents. This year's lineup includes a curious blend of Rod Stewart and Charli XCX, Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo, and John Fogerty and Doechii. However, the festival is not just about the big names; it's also about stumbling upon an unknown artist who becomes an instant obsession.

With that in mind, here's a guide to five of the most promising new acts on this year's Glastonbury bill... Watch them now, before they get too big.

Alessi Rose: A Pop Queen on the Brink of Stardom Alessi Rose is a 22-year-old English Literature graduate who has quickly become a cult favorite among fans of Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams. Her first single, "Say Ur Mine," was self-written and self-produced two years ago, but her confessional lyrics and electrifying vocals have already earned her a following. She recently wrapped up her first ever headline tour of the US, playing to 250 people in LA's Moroccan Lounge and then 70,000 people as the opening act on Dua Lipa's Radical Optimism tour. Her latest single, "That Could Be Me," is about fumbling the chance to declare her feelings and watching her crush walk off with another girl. When she opens the Other Stage on Saturday morning, she promises to give it her all.

MRCY: Sun-Baked Soul Anthems MRCY is a British duo that formed during lockdown but has turned their live shows into life-affirming celebrations with up to seven musicians onstage for every show. Their sound is stewed with the gritty '70s soul of Isaac Hayes and Marvin Gaye, offset by Kojo Degraft-Johnson's stop-you-in-your-tracks vocals. Their music tackles pressing social issues, like the perceived crisis of modern masculinity on "On Man." The band has been championed by Elton John and Rolling Stone, which called them "destined for greatness."

Koven: Drum & Bass Thrill-Seekers Koven's Katie Boyle is a drum and bass DJ who doesn't just sit behind her decks; she runs to the front of the stage and starts singing live after her mix is perfect. This simple but uncommon way of amping up the atmosphere has made Koven one of the most sought-after acts in the circuit. They have one of the most coveted dance slots of the weekend, playing at 23:00 on the Lonely Hearts Stage. If you turn up for their set, bring along a picture of a happy dog; Boyle has had that on her rider for so long but no one ever delivers it, so it's always a special moment when they do.