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Leicestershire singer-songwriter Sekou has been announced as one of the nominees in the running for this year's Brit Rising Star award. The winner will claim the title from Flo, who were recognised in 2023. Other previous winners since the prize category was created in 2008 include Adele, Sam Fender and Jorja Smith. The award recognises UK artists who haven't achieved a top 20 album or more than one top 20 single by 31 October. Sekou, from Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire, started posting soulful covers online at the age of 16 and sent his music into Radio Leicester's Â鶹Éç Introducing programme which supports up-and-coming artists. The 19-year-old first performed his breakout track Better Man at Glastonbury in 2022 in the Â鶹Éç Introducing tent. He says he draws inspiration from the likes of Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder and Beyoncé, as well as gospel music, which he came to love through his church roots. Dean Jackson from Â鶹Éç Introducing tells Kelly Hinch what difference the nomination will have for Sekou's career.