Finalists announced for BBC Introducing Scottish Act of the Year 2025
After receiving hundreds of submissions, a panel of expert judges have narrowed it down to just four finalists, representing a mix of genres that showcase Scotland's vibrant music scene.
The BBC Introducing Scottish Act of The Year 2025 Finalists are:
ili – multi-instrumentalist, pop singer, and songwriter from Glasgow
Indoor Foxes – Scottish indie rock artist from Edinburgh
Becky Sikasa – Soul singer and songwriter from Glasgow
Valtos – Electronic and folk fusion duo from the Isle of Skye
These four acts will take the stage at Platform, Glasgow, on Tuesday 25 March, performing in front of a live audience as they battle it out to be named BBC Introducing Scottish Act of The Year 2025.
The final will be hosted by Phoebe Inglis-Holmes and Stephanie Cheape, presenters of BBC Introducing in Scotland. It will be broadcast on BBC Scotland on Saturday 29 March at 11pm, with radio highlights airing on Friday 28 March.
Along with the coveted title, the winning act will receive two professional recording sessions with BBC Radio Scotland, a performance slot at Scotland's largest music festival TRNSMT, and a bespoke PR campaign.
This year's expert judging panel includes TV presenter and radio host Shereen Cutkelvin, BBC Radio 1's Jess Iszatt, Dougie Payne from Travis and Dead Pony frontwoman Anna Shields.
Meet the Finalists
ili
Track - It's Giving
ili is a Scottish multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and performer who has been captivating audiences across the UK since she was a child. Her heartfelt songwriting and genuine online presence have built a dedicated fanbase and garnered attention from icons like Shania Twain, Willow Smith, The Jonas Brothers, Kylie Minogue, and RAYE. She's an award-winning songwriter with number-one hits in China and Poland and has written the song representing Switzerland at Eurovision 2025. ili has shared the stage with artists such as Becky Hill, Only The Poets, Arthur Hill and Callum Beattie.
Ili says: 'Being nominated for Scottish Act of the Year is a bit surreal! I've been writing songs since I was nine, making up melodies in my bedroom, and if little me knew this was happening, she'd be screaming (probably into a deodorant can mic). Being recognised in my home country like this is honestly a dream and I'm so grateful for BBC Introducing and everyone who's been part of the journey to make this possible!"
Indoor Foxes
Track - Manic
Scottish born singer/songwriter Indoor Foxes makes indie rock music, described as 'Courtney Love meets Paris Hilton vibes; a bit pretty and very, very loud.' Indoor Foxes is the moniker of Martha Barr, who cites artists like Wolf Alice, Phoebe Bridgers, Paramore, and Fatherson as her main inspiration. For Martha, Indoor Foxes is a vehicle of expression; a cooler and braver version of herself.
Indoor Foxes says: 'It feels huge to be nominated for this award. I remember when I first started uploading to Introducing and basically sitting refreshing my emails to see if I would get on the radio - I was waiting for my start moment. Having been in the BBC Radio studio too recently it's just been like a prank …it's crazy. I'm over the moon to even be considered for this so thank you so much - 2025 YEAR OF THE FOX.'
Becky Sikasa
Track - My Love Says It's Going To Be Alright
Becky Sikasa is making her way to becoming one of the leading new voices in Soul. Leaving live audiences in awe and captivating tastemakers with her unique writing, soulful layered voices and intimate lyrics. The Glaswegian Artist has gained the attention of some of the biggest names in the business including Paolo Nutini and the legendary Nile Rodgers. This year alone she's supported Mercury-Prize-nominated Jazz-Sensation Corto Alto at the Barrowland and sold-out her own headline show.
Becky Sikasa says: 'I love being able to call the Scottish music scene my home and getting to grow alongside all these talented artist around me. Feeling very grateful and honoured to be on the short list for BBC Introducing act of the year!'
Valtos
Track – Etive
Valtos are Skye natives Daniel Docherty and Martyn MacDonald and they have taken the Trad and Electronic music worlds by storm. Since their debut shows in December 2021, they have entertained audiences at festivals and sold-out venues nationwide. Their music has been described as "like nothing you've heard before," blending influences from electronic and folk music. Inspired by artists like Martyn Bennet, Peatbog Faeries, Odesza, Madeon and Bicep, Valtos creates a unique and genre-defying sound.
Valtos say: 'We are beyond excited, BBC Introducing in Scotland has been a huge part of our career as a band, from the support on our very first track, to the most recent where we were lucky enough to be Track of the Week' and we've been just appreciative every time. BBC Introducing fills a huge role in Scotland in giving artists their first radio plays and interviews and we love to see it thrive and grow and we love being a part of that journey.'
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