WHAT IT IS: This young British singer/songwriter was signed to Virgin EMI by SVP A&R Nick Burgess on the strength of his voice and songs. “He is honest, passionate about his music and very humble, everything that I look for in an artist,” says Burgess. Gracie has released some bedroom demos and a live EP, and has support from BBC Radio 1 (Annie Mac’s hottest record) and Radio X, as well as some good press. His debut album will be released in Q4 next year. He’s been in the studio with Markus Dravs (Arcade Fire, Florence, Mumford, Coldplay), and the first single will be released in Q1 2017. He’s on tour with Michael Kiwanuka at the moment, and his first solo tour in the U.K. sold out (200-250 cap. venues). Burgess adds, “He is one of the most genuinely talented people I’ve worked with. I think he’s got ambition, he’s not afraid of people hearing his music, and he wants to be as big as he can be without ever compromising what he stands for. He’s such a great singer and songwriter that there’s no need to cover him up with any bells and whistles.” He’s managed by Ian McAndrew at Wildlife, published by Roc Nation, and his live agent is Matt Bates at Primary Talent.