Ellie’s Next Big Thing

BBC Sounds of 2010 poll winner Ellie Goulding has been named one of the headliners for The Next Big Thing in Londin Feb. 5-14.

The new event organised by HMV and MAMA has also announced Marina And The Diamonds, which came second in the Beeb poll, as well as Tinie Tempah, Alex Gardner, Rox, Paloma Faith, You Me At Six and Jersey Budd, plus US acts The Soft Pack and Jesca Hoop. Codes and General Fiasco will be among the acts representing Ireland.

The new event will be staged across London venues The Borderline, Relentless Garage, Heaven, Jazz Cafe and Camden Barfly.
It was announced two weeks ago, at the same time as MAMA Group became the subject of a 5.4 pence per share takeover bid from retailer HMV.

MAMA shareholders are mulling over the offer and the board has already recommended its acceptance.

The aim of Next Big Thing is to showcase the best new talent from the UK, Ireland and around the world through an annual, multi-venue festival, giving music fans an early and affordable opportunity at the start of each new year to catch some of the hottest acts.

The festival, which is opening in London but aims to develop into a nationwide event, also has a remit to support multiple music genres.