Introducing: Tanya Lacey

The last 12 months have been great for British female musicians, with Adele practically dominating the charts, the triumphant success of Jessie J and the emergence of Emili Sande, 2011 has been a jubilant one for the Brit pack. And with the new year in full swing, it’s time to look ahead at the stars of tomorrow, and R&B soul singer Tanya Lacey is likely to be a breakthrough act of 2012.

Mixing classic old skool soulful sounds with quirky contemporary R&B, the 25-year-old singer/songwriter has snubbed the popular R&B-dance-pop sounds that are currently polluting the charts, instead, opting to follow her own path.

Inspired by the passion of Mary J Blige and Lauryn Hill – whist maintaining a youthful contemporary funky aura – Tanya exudes emotion, as she wears her heart on her sleeve through music: “As an artist, you have to be open, you have to be vulnerable and share your story,” the rinsing singer explains. “Otherwise, no-one’s going to feel you,” she adds.

After quitting her A-Level studies to join a local reggae band in her native, Bristol, South-West England, Tanya spent most of her early career touring with the roots group – an experience she holds dear, as it taught her the importance of live shows.

“I’m definitely a live singer. The best thing about my voice? I guess that would be the tone and the texture of it,” she explains. “It’s about being able to hear the heart and the soul and the truth insomebody’s voice.”

Recently signed to Sony Records and with her yet-to-be-titled debut LP currently in the works, the up-and-coming musicians latest single ‘Letter To My Ex’ is a little taster of what’s to come from the feisty Brit singer. And with many blogs and music sites buzzing about her, 2012 is likely to be a big year for Miss Lacey.