Wherefore art thou, Adele? It’s been two years since the chart-topper released a single (the James Bond theme song “Skyfall”), though there are hints of a third album later this year. In the meantime, people have been quick to try and crown “the next Adele.” But which of these supposed Adele-alikes — all from the UK — are deserving of the comparison? We rank their worthiness:
Charli XCX
“Is Charli XCX the new Adele?” — The Telegraph, 6/17/14
Other than her passport, Charli — known for raucous indie pop and guest turns for Iggy Azalea and Icona Pop — has nothing in common with Adele.
Eliza Doolittle
“Is Eliza Doolittle the Next Adele?” — The Daily Beast, 10/9/13
She’s been around awhile now, still hasn’t released a real album in the United States and has sold only 17,000 copies of her EPs. So, no, she’s not the next Adele.
Lianne La Havas
“Lianne La Havas: the next Adele?” — The Telegraph, 7/16/12
The folky soul singer has vocal chops, but her songs are meh.
Paloma Faith
“Is This Phenomenal Brit Singer The Next Adele?” — Refinery29, 7/24/12
She’s had two Top 10 hits in the UK this year. And, like Adele, her hair is almost as big as her voice.
Emeli Sandé
“Emeli Sandé may be the next Adele, but she wasn’t fit for NBC to broadcast in the Olympics Opening Ceremony.” — CBS New York, 7/30/12
Sandé’s moody style is directly comparable to Adele’s, and she has sold more than a quarter of a million albums stateside.
Sam Smith
“My mate @samsmithworld is gonna be like a male Adele but I don’t want it to go to his head . . .” — tweet from Katy Perry
The soulful singer of top-ten hit “Stay With Me” may be a dude, but he gives Adele a run for her money.