[2026] Recommended Breakout Artists: A Roundup of Era-Defining Singers and Groups
These days, more and more artists are breaking out all at once thanks to popularity on the internet, and trends in the music scene are changing at a dizzying pace! From dance-vocal groups to artists who don’t show their faces, there’s a wide variety of styles.
It’s no longer unusual for songs by artists you’ve never listened to before to quickly become nationwide hits through YouTube and social media.
In this article, we’ll introduce a whole lineup of artists who are gaining popularity right now! We’re highlighting artists who are already breaking through, as well as those poised for the next big break.
Read this and you’ll get a complete picture of what’s happening in the Japanese music scene today!
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[2026] Recommended Breakout Artists: A roundup of singers and groups defining the era (41–50)
I love you!Cody Rī (Ri)
今最も話題の男女ツインボーカルバンドといえば、Cody・Lee（李）！ちなみに読み方は「コーディー・リー」です。高橋響と尾崎リノのツインボーカルは、まるで互いに告白し合っているような中毒性があって、「もっと早く聴き始めればよかった」と思うはず。テンポの速い部分では、思わず「これフランス語？」と思うような不思議な言葉の滑らかさまである。実力はお墨付き——Eggsオーディションでグランプリを受賞しています！
EdisonSuiyōbi no Campanella
Wednesday Campanella is known for creating highly addictive songs inspired by historical figures such as Momotaro and Sen no Rikyu.
The group was formed in 2012 by director Dir.F, composer Hidefumi Kenmochi, and vocalist KOM_I.
After forming, their main activity was uploading video works on YouTube.
In 2013, they began performing live in earnest and steadily gained new fans.
In September 2021, vocalist KOM_I announced her departure, and Utaha has since taken over as the second-generation vocalist.
Their song Edison, released on February 25, 2022, is currently breaking out on platforms like TikTok.
Super BallTOMOO
Singer-songwriter TOMOO, who was also selected for Spotify’s playlist showcasing the next breakout artists, “RADAR: Early Noise.” Her music is characterized by a band sound in which she sings while playing the piano, and her rich, resonant lower-mid register over piano rock is particularly captivating.
A skilled artist with a track record that includes starting piano at age six and composing songs since middle school.
Beyond her musicality, the profound worldview of her lyrics is also a major draw, so be sure to listen to her songs while reading the lyrics.
Dinner Songtuki.
tuki.
is a rising singer-songwriter whose overwhelming vocal prowess and exceptional musical sensibility truly shine.
In September 2023, she released “Bansanka” while still in middle school, and it climbed high on the Spotify and Apple Music charts, drawing further attention when covered by Yuuri.
Her voice is achingly tender yet unwaveringly strong—it’s impossible not to be captivated.
The follow-up release, “Ichirinka,” also seeps into the heart with lyrics and melodies that depict love and sorrow.
She reportedly borrowed money from her father to record it, and that kind of determination may be one of her many charms.
NEW KAWAIIFRUITS ZIPPER
Formed in 2022, the idol group FRUITS ZIPPER quickly captured attention with their poppy songs and the distinctive personalities of its members.
Their TikTok smash hit “Watashi no Ichiban Kawaii Tokoro” has surpassed 900 million video views and spent three consecutive weeks on Spotify’s Viral chart.
In 2023, they sold out every show on their first nationwide tour and won the Japan Record Award for Best New Artist.
The seven members—who bring diverse backgrounds including former HKT48 talent and acting—deliver must-see performances.
With bright, energetic sounds and catchy lyrics, they’re recommended not only for idol enthusiasts but also for pop music fans.
mixMarushii
Marcy is a pop band from Fukuoka.
In 2018, they formed a predecessor band called astela resound.
After undergoing member changes, they renamed themselves Marcy in 2019 and began full-scale activities.
In 2020, they launched their YouTube channel and released the music video for their first original song, “Esora,” while also starting digital distribution.
This became a turning point: despite no promotional campaign, word of mouth on social media boosted their popularity, and they achieved the remarkable feat of entering Spotify’s Viral Chart.
Marcy’s love songs, written in down-to-earth language, are sure to soothe your heart!
To all my ex-girlfriendsKoresawa
Koresawa is a singer-songwriter from Settsu, Osaka Prefecture.
Her addictive voice, pop melodies, and lyrics that capture everyday life from a unique perspective are especially appealing.
She made her major debut in 2017 with the album “Korekara,” and has released multiple works since.
Her signature songs include “Koibito Shikkaku” and “Tabako.” She doesn’t show her face publicly, and instead a bear character named “Reko-chan” appears in her place.
After being told in the past that her face “didn’t leave an impression,” she chose to let her music speak for itself.
In 2024, she further amplified her cute charm and presence with hits like “Mojokyu ni Kawaii no!” provided to Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu, and her own track “Moto Kanojo no Minasama e.” While her sound is pop, she skillfully expresses everyday emotions.
Koresawa’s songs are highly relatable and are recommended for anyone who wants to be moved by down-to-earth lyrics.