With a voice that brings to mind artists like Nina Simone and Lauryn Hill -- while remaining unique and fresh -- Emeli Sande has been making waves in the UK for several years. With her debut album Our Version of Events she is aiming to gain the same attention in the US.

The Scottish-born singer has been known more for her skilled songwriting for the past few years, but she actually started out winning singing competitions all across the United Kingdom. In 2011, she decided to start writing songs for her own album, and earlier this year she won Critic's Choice at the Brit Awards.

Songs performed: "Heaven," "Next To Me," and "Where I Sleep"

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