21 Famous British Singers of the 2010s (Must Hear List)

The 2010s was a transformative decade for British music, with a new wave of singers emerging to captivate audiences worldwide. From powerful ballads to infectious pop anthems, these artists redefined genres, broke records, and left an indelible mark on the global music scene.

British singers of this era not only dominated charts but also influenced fashion, culture, and social movements, becoming iconic figures both in the UK and internationally.

In this article, we explore the careers and contributions of the most famous British singers of the 2010s, highlighting how they shaped the sound of a decade.

21 Famous British Singers of the 2010s That Will Bring You Back in Time

These artists were key figures in the British music scene during the 2010s, achieving significant commercial success and influencing the global music landscape.

Here’s a list of famous British singers who rose to prominence or were particularly influential during the 2010s:

#1 Adele

Adele, born in 1988, is one of the most successful and critically acclaimed British singers of the 2010s, known for her powerful voice and emotionally resonant songs. Her breakthrough came with the release of her second album, 21, in 2011, which included hits like “Rolling in the Deep,” “Someone Like You,” and “Set Fire to the Rain.” The album was a global phenomenon, earning Adele numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, and becoming one of the best-selling albums of all time.

Adele’s ability to connect with listeners through her deeply personal lyrics and soulful delivery made her a standout artist of the decade. Her follow-up albums, 25 and 30, continued her success, cementing her status as one of the defining voices of her generation. Adele’s influence on contemporary music is profound, and her ability to blend pop, soul, and blues elements has earned her a place among the greatest singers of all time.

#2 Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, born in 1991, is a British singer-songwriter who became one of the most prominent artists of the 2010s, known for his heartfelt lyrics, distinctive voice, and ability to blend various musical styles. Sheeran’s rise to fame began with his debut album, + (Plus), in 2011, which included the hit singles “The A Team” and “Lego House.” His subsequent albums, x (Multiply) and ÷ (Divide), solidified his global success, with hits like “Thinking Out Loud,” “Shape of You,” and “Perfect” dominating charts worldwide.

Sheeran’s ability to write relatable songs that resonate with a wide audience has made him one of the most successful and influential artists of the decade. He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. Sheeran’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, and his blend of pop, folk, and R&B elements has set him apart as one of the leading voices of his generation.

#3 Sam Smith

Sam Smith, born in 1992, is a British singer-songwriter known for their soulful voice and emotionally charged songs. Smith first gained attention in 2012 as the featured vocalist on Disclosure’s hit single “Latch,” which was followed by their collaboration with Naughty Boy on “La La La.” Smith’s debut album, In the Lonely Hour, released in 2014, was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like “Stay With Me,” “I’m Not the Only One,” and “Lay Me Down.”

Smith’s ability to convey deep emotion through their music resonated with listeners, earning them four Grammy Awards in 2015, including Best New Artist and Record of the Year. Their subsequent albums, The Thrill of It All and Love Goes, continued their success, showcasing their versatility as an artist. Smith’s influence on the music industry, particularly in the pop and soul genres, has been significant, and their work continues to resonate with fans around the world.

#4 Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa, born in 1995, is a British singer-songwriter who rose to prominence in the late 2010s with her catchy pop songs and confident, empowering lyrics. Lipa’s self-titled debut album, released in 2017, included hit singles like “New Rules,” “IDGAF,” and “Be the One,” establishing her as a major force in pop music. Her follow-up album, Future Nostalgia, released in 2020, was a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Don’t Start Now,” “Physical,” and “Levitating,” and earning her multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album.

Lipa’s music is characterized by its blend of pop, dance, and disco elements, and her bold, unapologetic approach has made her a role model for young women around the world. Her influence on the pop music landscape has been profound, and she continues to be one of the most exciting and successful artists of her generation. Lipa’s ability to create infectious pop anthems has cemented her status as a leading figure in contemporary music.

#5 Jessie J

Jessie J, born in 1988, is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice, dynamic performances, and ability to blend pop, R&B, and soul. Jessie J first gained international attention with her debut single “Do It Like a Dude” in 2010, followed by the chart-topping hit “Price Tag.” Her debut album, Who You Are, was a commercial success, featuring additional hits like “Nobody’s Perfect,” “Domino,” and “Who’s Laughing Now.” Jessie J’s vocal range and ability to deliver both high-energy anthems and soulful ballads set her apart in the pop music scene.

Throughout the 2010s, Jessie J continued to release successful music, including her sophomore album Alive and the hit single “Bang Bang,” a collaboration with Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj. Her influence on the pop and R&B genres is significant, and she has been recognized with numerous awards for her contributions to music. Jessie J’s ability to connect with her audience through her authentic and powerful performances has made her a beloved figure in the music industry.

#6 Ellie Goulding

Ellie Goulding, born in 1986, is a British singer-songwriter known for her ethereal voice and her ability to blend electronic pop with indie and folk influences. Goulding first gained attention with her debut album, Lights, in 2010, which included the hit singles “Lights” and “Starry Eyed.” Her second album, Halcyon, further established her as a major force in pop music, with hits like “Anything Could Happen” and “Burn.” Goulding’s music is characterized by its lush production, emotive lyrics, and her distinctive voice, which has earned her a dedicated fanbase.

Goulding’s success continued with her third album, Delirium, which featured the global hit “Love Me Like You Do,” a song that became synonymous with the Fifty Shades of Grey film soundtrack. Her ability to evolve as an artist while maintaining her unique sound has made her one of the most successful British singers of the 2010s. Goulding’s influence on the pop and electronic music scenes is significant, and she continues to be a prominent figure in contemporary music.

#7 Rita Ora

Rita Ora, born in 1990, is a British singer, songwriter, and actress who gained fame in the early 2010s with her debut single “Hot Right Now” in collaboration with DJ Fresh. The song topped the UK Singles Chart, propelling Ora into the spotlight. Her debut album, Ora, released in 2012, included hit singles like “R.I.P.” and “How We Do (Party),” which further solidified her status as a rising pop star. Ora’s music is known for its catchy hooks, energetic beats, and her ability to blend pop, R&B, and dance elements.

Throughout the 2010s, Ora continued to release successful singles, including “I Will Never Let You Down” and “Your Song,” while also establishing herself as a fashion icon and television personality. Her versatility as an artist has allowed her to maintain a strong presence in the music industry, and she has collaborated with various international artists. Ora’s influence on pop music and her ability to stay relevant in a competitive industry have made her one of the standout British artists of the decade.

#8 Florence Welch

Florence Welch, born in 1986, is the lead vocalist of the British indie rock band Florence + the Machine, known for her powerful voice and dramatic stage presence. Welch and her band gained widespread recognition with their debut album, Lungs, in 2009, which featured hit singles like “Dog Days Are Over” and “You’ve Got the Love.” The album’s success was followed by their critically acclaimed second album, Ceremonials, in 2011, which solidified Welch’s status as a leading figure in the indie rock scene.

Welch’s music is characterized by its lush orchestration, emotional intensity, and her ability to blend elements of rock, soul, and art pop. Her unique voice and artistic vision have earned her numerous awards and a dedicated global fanbase. Florence + the Machine’s subsequent albums, including How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful and High As Hope, continued to showcase Welch’s evolving artistry. Her influence on the alternative music scene and her ability to push creative boundaries have made her one of the most respected British artists of the 2010s.

#9 James Arthur

James Arthur, born in 1988, is a British singer-songwriter who rose to fame after winning the ninth season of The X Factor in 2012. Arthur’s debut single, a cover of Shontelle’s “Impossible,” became a massive hit, topping the UK Singles Chart and selling over 2.5 million copies worldwide. His self-titled debut album, released in 2013, featured the hit single “You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Loves You” and showcased his soulful voice and emotional depth.

After facing personal and professional challenges, Arthur made a successful comeback with his 2016 single “Say You Won’t Let Go,” which topped charts globally and marked a turning point in his career. His second album, Back from the Edge, was critically acclaimed and solidified his return to the music industry. Arthur’s ability to connect with audiences through his raw and honest songwriting has earned him a loyal fanbase, and his journey of redemption and resilience has made him a significant figure in British music.

#10 Liam Payne

Liam Payne, born in 1993, is a British singer and songwriter who gained worldwide fame as a member of the boy band One Direction. Formed during the 2010 season of The X Factor, One Direction quickly became one of the most successful boy bands of all time, with hits like “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Story of My Life,” and “Drag Me Down.” Payne’s role as a vocalist and co-writer in the band contributed to their global success, and he developed a strong fanbase during the group’s six-year run.

Following the band’s hiatus in 2016, Payne launched his solo career, releasing his debut single “Strip That Down” featuring Quavo in 2017. The song became a hit, reaching the top ten in multiple countries. His debut album, LP1, showcased his versatility as an artist, blending pop, R&B, and hip-hop influences. Payne’s transition from boy band member to solo artist has been successful, and he continues to build his career with a focus on creating contemporary pop music.

#11 Harry Styles

Harry Styles, born in 1994, is a British singer, songwriter, and actor who rose to fame as a member of One Direction before launching a highly successful solo career. After One Direction went on hiatus in 2016, Styles released his self-titled debut solo album in 2017, which was praised for its rock and pop influences. The album’s lead single, “Sign of the Times,” showcased a more mature sound and established Styles as a serious solo artist. His eclectic style, blending classic rock, pop, and folk, set him apart from his boy band origins.

Styles’ second album, Fine Line, released in 2019, further solidified his place in the music industry with hits like “Adore You” and “Watermelon Sugar.” The album’s critical and commercial success confirmed Styles’ ability to evolve as an artist, and he quickly became known for his fashion-forward image and charismatic performances. Styles’ impact on pop culture and music in the 2010s is significant, and he has emerged as one of the most influential and beloved British artists of his generation.

#12 Zayn Malik

Zayn Malik, born in 1993, is a British singer and songwriter who first gained fame as a member of One Direction before embarking on a successful solo career. Malik’s decision to leave One Direction in 2015 to pursue his own musical path was a significant moment in pop culture. His debut solo album, Mind of Mine, released in 2016, showcased a departure from the pop sound of his boy band days, embracing R&B and alternative influences. The album’s lead single, “Pillowtalk,” debuted at number one on the charts in several countries, marking a strong start to his solo career.

Malik’s music often explores themes of love, identity, and introspection, and he has been praised for his vocal range and artistic vision. His willingness to take creative risks and move away from mainstream pop has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Malik’s influence on contemporary music, particularly in blending pop with R&B and alternative styles, has made him a standout artist of the 2010s.

#13 Niall Horan

Niall Horan, born in 1993, is a British-Irish singer and songwriter who rose to fame as a member of One Direction. After the group went on hiatus in 2016, Horan pursued a solo career, releasing his debut single “This Town,” which showcased his acoustic, folk-pop style. His debut album, Flicker, released in 2017, included hit singles like “Slow Hands” and “Too Much to Ask,” and was praised for its heartfelt lyrics and mature sound. Horan’s music often draws on influences from folk, rock, and pop, setting him apart from his former bandmates.

Horan’s ability to craft introspective songs with relatable themes has earned him a loyal fanbase, and his success as a solo artist has demonstrated his versatility and growth as a musician. His follow-up album, Heartbreak Weather, released in 2020, continued to build on his success, with a more polished and upbeat sound. Horan’s influence on the pop and folk-pop scenes, along with his consistent ability to connect with his audience, has made him a significant figure in the music industry.

#14 Louis Tomlinson

Louis Tomlinson, born in 1991, is a British singer and songwriter who first gained fame as a member of One Direction before launching a solo career. Known for his strong vocals and songwriting skills within the band, Tomlinson began his solo journey with the release of his debut single “Just Hold On” in 2016, a collaboration with Steve Aoki. His subsequent singles, including “Back to You” and “Two of Us,” showcased his ability to blend pop with indie and rock influences.

Tomlinson’s debut album, Walls, released in 2020, was a reflection of his personal and artistic growth, featuring introspective lyrics and a more mature sound. His music often explores themes of love, loss, and resilience, resonating with fans who have followed his journey from boy band member to solo artist. Tomlinson’s dedication to his craft and his ability to stay true to his artistic vision have made him a respected figure in the music industry, with a promising solo career ahead.

#15 Leona Lewis

Leona Lewis, born in 1985, is a British singer-songwriter who gained international fame after winning the third season of The X Factor in 2006. Her debut single, “A Moment Like This,” broke world records by becoming the fastest-selling UK single of all time. Lewis’s debut album, Spirit, released in 2007, featured the global hit “Bleeding Love,” which topped charts in over 30 countries and solidified her status as a pop powerhouse. Her powerful voice and ability to convey deep emotion made her a standout artist in the late 2000s and early 2010s.

Lewis continued to release successful albums, including Echo and Glassheart, showcasing her versatility in blending pop, R&B, and soul influences. Her ability to consistently deliver heartfelt performances and her dedication to her craft have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Lewis’s influence on the pop and R&B scenes is significant, and she remains one of the most successful and beloved British singers of her generation.

#16 Little Mix

Little Mix is a British girl group formed during the 2011 season of The X Factor, becoming the first group to win the competition. The original lineup consisted of Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Jade Thirlwall. Little Mix quickly rose to fame with their debut single “Cannonball” and subsequent hits like “Wings” and “DNA.” Their debut album, DNA, became the highest-charting debut album by a British girl group in the U.S., marking the beginning of their global success.

Throughout the 2010s, Little Mix continued to dominate the pop charts with hits like “Black Magic,” “Shout Out to My Ex,” and “Touch,” solidifying their reputation as one of the most successful girl groups in history. Known for their strong vocals, empowering lyrics, and dynamic performances, Little Mix has inspired a generation of fans with their messages of self-confidence and empowerment. Their influence on pop music and their status as trailblazers in the industry have made them one of the defining acts of the decade.

#17 Olly Murs

Olly Murs, born in 1984, is a British singer, songwriter, and television presenter who gained fame as the runner-up on the sixth season of The X Factor in 2009. Murs quickly established himself as a pop sensation with the release of his debut single “Please Don’t Let Me Go,” which topped the UK Singles Chart. His debut album, Olly Murs, released in 2010, was a commercial success, featuring hits like “Thinking of Me” and “Heart Skips a Beat.” Murs’s music is characterized by its catchy melodies, upbeat pop sound, and his charismatic stage presence.

Throughout the 2010s, Murs released several successful albums, including In Case You Didn’t Know, Right Place Right Time, and Never Been Better, all of which produced multiple chart-topping singles. His ability to consistently deliver hit songs and connect with audiences through his relatable lyrics and infectious energy has made him one of the UK’s most beloved pop artists. Murs’s influence on the British pop scene is significant, and his continued success in both music and television has solidified his place as a versatile and enduring entertainer.

#18 Charli XCX

Charli XCX, born in 1992, is a British singer, songwriter, and producer known for her innovative approach to pop music and her ability to push the boundaries of the genre. Charli first gained widespread recognition with her feature on Icona Pop’s 2013 hit “I Love It,” followed by her solo success with the singles “Boom Clap” and “Break the Rules.” Her debut studio album, True Romance, released in 2013, was praised for its blend of pop, synth-pop, and electro-pop influences.

Throughout the 2010s, Charli XCX became known for her experimental style, collaborating with artists like Troye Sivan, Lizzo, and BTS, and exploring new sounds with each project. Her mixtapes Number 1 Angel and Pop 2 further showcased her versatility and willingness to take risks in her music. Charli’s influence on the pop and hyperpop scenes is profound, and her ability to innovate while maintaining a strong connection with her audience has made her one of the most important and forward-thinking artists of the decade.

#19 Anne-Marie

Anne-Marie, born in 1991, is a British singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the mid-2010s with her catchy pop songs and relatable lyrics. Anne-Marie’s breakthrough came with her feature on Clean Bandit’s 2016 hit “Rockabye,” which topped charts worldwide. Her debut album, Speak Your Mind, released in 2018, included hit singles like “Alarm,” “Ciao Adios,” and “Friends,” showcasing her ability to blend pop, dance, and R&B influences with a confident and playful style.

Anne-Marie’s music often explores themes of self-empowerment, relationships, and personal growth, resonating with a wide audience. Her distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence have made her a standout artist in the pop music scene. Anne-Marie’s continued success with singles like “2002” and “Birthday” has solidified her place as one of the leading British pop artists of the decade, and her influence on contemporary pop music is significant.

#20 Stormzy

Stormzy, born in 1993, is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter who emerged as one of the leading figures in the UK grime scene in the 2010s. Stormzy first gained attention with his freestyle “Shut Up,” which became a viral hit and was later used as his entrance music when he performed at the 2015 BRIT Awards. His debut album, Gang Signs & Prayer, released in 2017, was critically acclaimed, becoming the first grime album to reach number one on the UK Albums Chart.

Stormzy’s music is known for its powerful lyrics, addressing social and political issues, as well as its blend of grime, hip-hop, and gospel influences. His follow-up album, Heavy Is the Head, continued his success with hits like “Vossi Bop” and “Own It.” Stormzy’s influence on British music and culture is profound, and he has become a prominent voice in the conversation around race, inequality, and empowerment in the UK. His ability to blend hard-hitting lyrics with mainstream appeal has made him one of the most important and influential artists of his generation.

#21 Emeli Sandé

Emeli Sandé, born in 1987, is a British singer and songwriter known for her powerful voice and deeply emotive music. Sandé first gained widespread recognition with the release of her debut album, Our Version of Events, in 2012, which became the best-selling album of the year in the UK. The album included hit singles like “Heaven,” “Next to Me,” and “Clown,” showcasing her ability to blend pop, soul, and R&B influences with thought-provoking lyrics. Sandé’s music often explores themes of love, identity, and social justice, resonating with a wide audience.

Sandé’s success continued with her follow-up albums, Long Live the Angels and Real Life, both of which received critical acclaim. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music has earned her numerous awards, including multiple BRIT Awards, and she has performed at high-profile events such as the 2012 London Olympics opening and closing ceremonies. Sandé’s influence on the British music scene is significant, and she continues to be a powerful voice in contemporary music.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Adele’s music impact the global music scene in the 2010s?

Adele’s powerful voice and emotionally charged lyrics resonated with a global audience, leading to record-breaking sales and numerous awards. Her albums, especially 21, redefined pop and soul music, making her one of the decade’s most influential artists.

What made Ed Sheeran one of the most successful British artists of the 2010s?

Ed Sheeran’s blend of pop, folk, and R&B, along with his relatable lyrics, earned him massive commercial success worldwide. His ability to write chart-topping hits and connect with listeners on a personal level made him a dominant figure in the music industry.

How did Little Mix distinguish themselves in the pop music industry during the 2010s?

Little Mix became one of the most successful girl groups of all time by delivering powerful vocals, catchy pop anthems, and empowering messages. Their ability to consistently release hit songs and connect with fans globally set them apart in the pop music scene.

What role did Stormzy play in the UK grime scene during the 2010s?

Stormzy emerged as a leading figure in the UK grime scene by blending hard-hitting lyrics with mainstream appeal, addressing social and political issues in his music. His success brought grime music to a wider audience and made him a prominent voice in British culture.