Virtually famous: MNEK

MNEK is not an acronym for anything but an easier way to pronounce the surname of Uzoechi Emenike, a 19-year-old south Londoner who is currently as big in the music world as his 6ft 4in frame. A triple threat who writes, produces and sings and was working with the likes of Tinie Tempah, The Saturdays and Duran Duran when he was just 16, he’s now stepping into the spotlight as a precocious veteran.

His debut solo single, Every Little Word, is out on Monday, a soulful piece of rubbery dance-funk that’s sweary enough to ensure that it probably won’t get enough radio play to make it a massive hit. No matter — he’s been there already as the voice of Gorgon City’s top five favourite Ready for Your Love and the co-writer of Duke Dumont’s number one, Need U (100%), not to mention other high-profile work with Kylie, Rudimental and Little Mix. His prolific back catalogue suggests there are plenty more hits to come.