What's the deal with… Tom Odell?

Everything you need to know about the fast-rising Brit Award favourite

By Danielle Goldstein Tue Mar 12 2013

Odell like yodel?
No, like, ‘Oh well’.

Does he yodel?
Also no, but this 22-year-old alt.folkie from Chichester does write, sing and play piano with lots of chart promise.

Ah, like Chris Martin from Coldplay.
To a degree, but Odell is closer to old piano-wielding Wigan favourites Starsailor. His fragile voice often sounds ready to break just before he launches into a heady blues yowl.

Why should I let this particular watery eyed wonder into my life?
This one comes pre-approved. Odell won the Brits Critics’ Choice Award this year and is one of the BBC’s Sounds of 2013. He’s also in favour with US megastar Taylor Swift – the two are rumoured to have been flirting at the Brits.

How do I get a piece of the action?
His debut album ‘Long Way Down’ is out April 15, but he’s also playing a string of shows in London this year, which include Somerset House's Summer Series. Grab your tickets without Odell-ay.

Watch Tom Odell's 'Another Love' video

See Tom Odell live in London

Tom Odell

Critics choice

He was longlisted for the BBC's Sound of 2013 Poll, and was a big hit at the Brit Awards – and it's easy to see why. The 22-year-old Chichester singer-songwriter delivers a delicate, yet impassioned, piano-led indie-folk that rivals a style similar to that of a young Chris Martin with The Black Keys's bluesy vibes.