Photo:
2012 was a massive year for urban music. Frank Ocean received astonishing critical acclaim and masses of new fans with the release of his debut album 'Channel Orange', Azealia Banks burst onto the scene, and two of the biggest names in the business; Jay Z and Beyonce gave birth to hip hop royalty, Blue Ivy.
But if 2012 was the year for establishing great new urban acts, we think 2013 is the year for them to really come into their own and prove their right to remain on the scene.
From new albums from some of the biggest names in the game - to confirmed and potential UK gigs from some of the hottest new stars on the scene, the next 12 months are set to be good for fans of r&b, soul and hip-hop as the scene gets a long overdue overhaul from the likes of The Weeknd and Solange.
We've compiled 13 of the most exciting things urban music has to offer in 2013. Check them out below - and let us know what has you excited about 2013...
Calling all festival lovers... Take part in a short online survey about a festival advertising campaign for a chance to one of 3 x £300 Love2Shop vouchers. Click here to register.
