[2026] Breakout Inevitable! Japanese Bands to Watch Now
In recent years, the spread of new music sparked by social media has accelerated, and more artists are breaking out rapidly thanks to internet popularity, making trends in the music scene shift faster than ever.
New-generation bands that go beyond conventional norms are steadily making their mark.
The songs these bands weave with their unique sensibilities vividly capture the spirit of the times and are sure to lead Japan’s band scene going forward.
That’s exactly why now is the time to get to know these Japanese bands on the verge of a breakthrough—here are our top picks you shouldn’t miss!
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[2026] Breakout is inevitable! Japanese bands to watch now (11–20)
Orihime and BABY feat. Shio Leilaneguse.
Neguse, a four-piece rock band from Nagoya formed in August 2020, has steadily grown while staying earnestly devoted to music throughout the COVID era.
Their music features happy, pop-infused melodies and unpretentious, down-to-earth lyrics, carrying the power to soothe and uplift listeners.
Shortly after forming, they began full-scale activities in October 2020, and in 2022 released their third mini-album, “Wonderland ni Aijou wo!” Their track “Super Aishitai” racked up 8.7 million views on TikTok, while “Good na Ongaku wo” broke out beyond TikTok to gain attention on radio as well, generating significant buzz.
In 2025, “Orihime to BABY,” featuring Reira Ushio, is showing signs of becoming a movement.
With positive messaging and catchy sound, Neguse is winning support across a wide demographic, from young to old.
Keep an eye on their future activities!
sentimentalyutori
“Shortcut feat.
Yui Yaguchi,” posted in 2020, went viral.
The group behind the song is the rock band yutori.
They originally planned to release just one track and then disband.
However, the response was so overwhelming that they decided to continue as a full-fledged band.
A hallmark of their music is how they capture the delicate emotions of youth and heartbreakingly poignant love stories in their songs.
They’re very active with live shows and festival appearances, so be sure to experience their world in person if you can.
Change the worldPenthouse
How about some city music that blends nostalgia with something fresh? Formed in 2018, Penthouse is a band you’ll want to listen to over and over, with twin vocals and irresistibly jazzy, pop-tinged melodies.
“Change the world,” included on their 2021 release Living Room, is a track that showcases a range of musical styles.
The members met through a music club at the University of Tokyo and formed the band there.
They first gained attention by posting original songs and covers on YouTube and other social media.
It’s highly recommended to savor each member’s impressive musicianship and lose yourself in their sound—music you’ll want to have on all 365 days of the year!
Proposal linesmeiyo densetsu
Honorary Legend is a rising band known for their talent in crafting compelling melodies and catchy tunes.
Their music skillfully blends pop sensibilities with traditional Japanese elements, inviting listeners into a world of vivid energy and moving storytelling.
In 2023, they released a series of music videos for tracks such as “Loving,” “Proposal Lines,” and “Poltron.” In particular, “Proposal Lines” became a hit, surpassing 960,000 views on YouTube.
With a diverse musical range that spans from dance music to ballads, they are being strongly promoted across various music radio stations.
Leaving it unknownUNFAIR RULE
UNFAIR RULE, a three-piece band from Okayama, was formed around guitarist-vocalist Towa Yamamoto.
In 2022, they made a big splash by performing at major circuit events nationwide, including Kyoto Daisakusen 2022 Eve and FM802 MINAMI WHEEL 2022.
In April 2023, they released their first nationally distributed album, “Itsumo no Koto,” and embarked on a nationwide tour.
They were also selected as ambassadors for Tower Records’ initiative “Ah, I Want to Start a Band!”—making them a band whose future activities are highly anticipated.
New DimensionShin-Tōkyō
A rising guitar-less band formed in 2021.
Comprised of current university students, they won the Grand Prix in an Eggs contest the year they formed.
Riding a wave of momentum, they made their live debut at Zepp Tokyo and released their debut single.
Their unique approach to songwriting—first discussing a theme, then crafting songs around it—is also compelling.
They’ve been steadily gaining attention, having been featured on TV Asahi’s “Kanjam Kanzen Nen SHOW” and taking the top spot on a J-WAVE program.
A must-listen for anyone who wants to feel the current of new music.
[2026] Breakthrough Guaranteed! Japanese Bands to Watch Now (21–30)
ExposureSlololis
This band, slololis, based in Tokyo, boasts members with exceptionally high performance skills.
Their playful rhythmic work blends retro sounds with shoegaze in a distinctive mix.
It’s the kind of band that musicians in particular are likely to get hooked on.
