This year, Queen of Hearts bequeathed upon us not one but two fantastic EPs, Neon/Tears In The Rain and Warrior, and two music videos as well (“Neon” and “Warrior”). She also performed a few shows in Spain, several in the UK (including a pair of Hyde Park festivals), and even ventured across the pond, playing a CMJ showcase in New York and a Washington, D.C. gig. Of course, I’m still dreaming of the day when the West Coast has an audience with Queen of Hearts.

With “Neon” glowing brightly at #30 on Popservations’ Top 100 Tracks of 2012, and her luscious electropop rendition of Ben Howard’s “Only Love” (included on Warrior) deemed the year’s top cover song, let’s see what ruled Queen of Hearts’ eardrums in 2012. She also shares her most memorable moment of the year and what’s in the cards for 2020.

Queen of Hearts’ 5 Favorite Tracks of 2012:

“There has been so much good music this year, so of my faves…”

Chvrches – “Lies”
Everything Everything – “Cough Cough”
Ellie Goulding – “Anything Could Happen”
AlunaGeorge – “Your Drums Your Love”
Charli XCX – “You’re The One”

Memorable moment from 2012:

“I was lucky enough to perform at Hyde Park during the Olympics. The atmosphere was incredible, and my set was right after Mo Farah won his second gold medal. That was such a special show — the crowd was amazing, and I felt so proud to be British! That will stay with me forever.”

Coming in 2020:

“I will FINALLY be putting out my album. It’s taken me a while, I’ve turned into a massive perfectionist! But it’s almost ready, so I can’t wait to put that out early next year, and see the reaction. I’m hoping to tour a lot more next year. I’ve ticked off New York, Washington, Barcelona, and Madrid this year, but I’ve got the itchy feel to get out and see the world some more, so that’s my wish for 2020. All invitations welcome, ideally somewhere hot, please!”

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Take a listen to Queen of Hearts’ acoustic set for BBC Introducing, recorded last month, and read her robust reflection on 2012 via her Tumblr.