The soul man with a guitar Michael Kiwanuka has topped BBC Sound Of 2012 ahead of Odd Future's Frank Ocean, rapper Azaelia Banks, dubstep producer Skrillex and electronic duo Niki & The Dove.

Compiled by over 180 UK tastemakers including critics, bloggers and broadcasters, BBC Sound Of 2012 aims to showcase the artists who are going to blow in the year ahead. 

In his interview with BBC, Kiwanuka said, "It's a great surprise and it means a lot that people are accepting the music they've heard so far, and it will bring the music to many more people, which for any musician is a great privilege."

Having supported Adele on tour, Michael Kiwanuka started off as a session guitarist working for Labrinth and eventually grabbed the mic getting a record deal with Communion Records. 

Listen to Michael Kiwanuka's 'Tell Me A Tale' here: http://youtu.be/xTa28a8QKo4.

So keep your eyes peeled for Michael Kiwanuka.

www.bbc.co.uk/music/soundof/2012