UK garage is a genre characterized by its upbeat, syncopated rhythms, often featuring a prominent "2-step" beat, and typically incorporating elements of R&B, hip-hop, and house music. Emerging in the mid-1990s in the UK, the genre evolved from the city's pirate radio scene and underground clubs, where DJs and producers experimented with American garage house and UK rave sounds. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, UK garage had gained mainstream popularity, particularly among British youth, with its catchy, energetic sound and relatable, often introspective lyrics. The genre's cultural significance lies in its ability to capture the urban experience and emotions of a generation, with its blend of soulful vocals, jazz-influenced instrumentation, and infectious beats. UK garage draws from and intersects with other styles, such as grime, drum and bass, and US garage, but its distinct 2-step rhythm and emphasis on vocal performance set it apart.

Contender

Lili Caseley

Single - Released March 28, 2025