Sasha Keable on Finding Her Sound and Making Space for the Next Generation
“If I don’t believe what I’m singing, what’s the point?”
For Sasha Keable, the past year has been one of serious momentum. Following a BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2026 nod, an NPR Tiny Desk performance and nominations at both the BRITs and MOBOs, the South London singer-songwriter is entering a new chapter, but she’s still keeping her focus firmly on the music. Rooted in R&B and driven by a desire to make music that feels “lived-in and real,” Keable is equally passionate about creating space for the artists coming up alongside her.
That ethos is at the heart of her partnership with Ruby Hotels‘ “Dive in with Ruby,” a new live music series spotlighting emerging talent. After kicking off the series with an intimate performance at Ruby Zoe in Notting Hill, Keable is set to select an up-and-coming artist for a secret set, giving audiences the chance to discover them before they hit the mainstream.
We caught up with Keable to talk about her whirlwind year, the power of intimate performances, the UK artists on her radar and why opening doors for the next generation matters. Read on for the full interview.
For those who don’t know you, how would you describe your sound?
I’m an R&B girly, I follow whatever feels right in the moment and R&B is what feels right. Vocals and harmonies are my thing, but if I don’t believe what I’m singing, what’s the point? I want the music to feel lived-in and real.
You’ve had a significant year with BRIT and MOBO nominations. Do moments like these change how you see the next stage of your career, or are you just focused on the music itself?
It’s mad, honestly. Stuff like that is huge, and I’m trying to actually let myself enjoy it, but it doesn’t change why I do any of this. If anything, it just makes me trust my gut even more and stick to what feels like me. I’d rather make something real that actually sounds like me than run after whatever I’m meant to do next.
What’s something you want people to feel or take away when first listening to your new music?
I want people to feel something. My music is personal, so there’s a lot of rawness, but there’s bite too. If someone hears something they’ve felt but never said out loud, that’s the best bit for me.
Your recent NPR Tiny Desk was such a great performance. What did that setting bring out of you that a traditional stage might not?
Tiny Desk was a proper full-circle moment. My dad showed it to me years ago, so actually being there was surreal. The best part was actually being there after years of dreaming of it. You’re right up close; there’s no huge production to hide behind. It either connects or it doesn’t.
That intimacy was also a big part of what appealed to me about being the launch act for the “Dive in with Ruby” series. At Ruby Zoe Hotel, you’re close enough to actually see who’s in the room, feel their energy and see the fans’ reactions. I love performing like that.
Who are some UK artists exciting you right now that you think more people should have on their radar?
I always have to shout out Cari, I love what she’s doing and the music she’s been making! Listen to “The Dealer!” Also, EJ Ross go and stream him!
It’s more important than ever to give newer artists a platform and support, as it is tough out there and we need to have each other’s backs. This also drew me to “Dive in with Ruby.” The second show is at the same place next week and will be showcasing someone special, but it’s a secret until the night.
There’s so much good music coming out of the UK right now. I love when people get to discover someone in an intimate room before everyone else catches on. If people leave wanting to know more about them, that’s the win for me.
You’ve spoken about the importance of supporting emerging talent. Was there a point early in your career when someone gave you that kind of support?
There have definitely been people and moments along the way where someone believing in me or giving me an opportunity made a difference. Love you Katy B! And even Beyoncé shouting me out was so important to me!
When you’re starting out, talent alone isn’t always enough. Sometimes you need someone to give you a shot, put you in the right room, or back you up while you’re still figuring it all out. I think that stays with you. Now that I’m in a position to open a door for somebody else, I want to do that too. There’s space for everyone.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Definitely more music and more live shows. I feel like I’m in a mad creative place right now, and I’m just letting myself run with it instead of stressing about what the next chapter should look like.
I just want to keep pushing myself, keep playing live and keep making music that’s honest about where I’m at right now. That’s all I care about.
