[Ones to Watch in 2026!] Recommended Female Singers & Recent Female Artists

Don’t stop the musicYahagi Moeka

Moeka Yahagi – Don’t Stop the Music [Music Video]

One artist gaining attention for her style of portraying real, down-to-earth young people is Moeka Yahagi.

In fact, she’s a former member of AKB48.

She passed the audition in 2017 and made her first selection appearance in 2018.

She quickly drew many fans and became one of the group’s most popular members.

She was later chosen as center and enjoyed great success.

In 2019, she graduated from the group and transitioned to a singer-songwriter, which she continues to be today.

Her activity on social media is also getting buzz, so be sure to check that out as well.

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Double Double FIGHT!CANDY TUNE

[MV] CANDY TUNE “Bai Bai FIGHT!”

The idol group CANDY TUNE, rapidly rising in popularity mainly on social media, is making waves in the music scene.

Formed in February 2023 from ASOBISYSTEM’s project KAWAII LAB., they began activities as a seven-member group and made their debut with the digital album “CANDY TUNE,” showcasing a wide musical range from classic idol pop to electropop.

With active updates on social media and catchy songs, they’ve shown remarkable growth—pulling off a successful one-man show at Zepp Shinjuku just eight months after their debut.

Their strengths lie in each member’s individual charm, well-balanced performances, and close connection with fans, making them a recommended group not only for idol enthusiasts but also for pop music fans.

N.E.O.CHAI

CHAI – N.E.O. – Official Music Video (subtitled)

Formed in Nagoya, Aichi in 2012, the four-piece girl band CHAI delivers a unique sound that blends a wide range of genres, including alternative rock and hip-hop.

Their 2015 EP “Hottaraka Series” drew significant attention from the outset, landing in the Top 50 on Spotify’s overseas charts.

In 2018, they released music through prestigious indie labels in the U.S.

and U.K., signed with Sub Pop, and further solidified their international reputation.

They have also earned numerous accolades, including recognition at the 10th CD Shop Awards in 2018 and taking the top spot on Buzz Rhythm 02’s “This Is Going to Buzz 2018.” With “NEO Kawaii” as their guiding concept, their music is packed with fresh, message-driven works beneath a pop surface—highly recommended for fans of Western music as well.

Only onezarame

Only one

Zarame is a striking blue-haired “nega-posi” singer-songwriter.

With a translucent voice and a uniquely expressive emotional style, she creates music that stirs listeners’ hearts.

She began with street performances in Tokyo and steadily built popularity through word of mouth on social media as an emerging artist.

Since July 2024, she has been landing tie-ins with anime and TV dramas one after another, and her performance video on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE has surpassed 3.4 million views, steadily expanding her fanbase.

From ballads to rock, she covers a wide range of genres, and her lyrics and expressive power—while embracing negative emotions—still evoke a sense of hope, resonating with many listeners.

She’s an artist you’ll want to listen to when you feel lost in life or when you want to cherish your feelings for someone.

Almond ChocolateILLIT

ILLIT (아일릿) ‘Almond Chocolate’ Special Film

ILLIT is a five-member girl group bringing together HYBE’s newest talents.

They made their debut in March 2024 with their first mini album, “SUPER REAL ME,” and are shaking up the K-pop scene.

Their appeal lies in a diverse musicality that blends pop, R&B, and electronic elements, along with internationally flavored performances by Korean and Japanese members.

Within just a few months of debut, they garnered numerous awards, including the New Artist Award at the 66th Japan Record Awards and “Best New Female Artist” at the 2024 MAMA.

With sophisticated choreography and addictive melodies, they’ve earned global popularity.

They’re highly recommended for listeners seeking trendy music and polished performances.

Thinking about the blue skyBoku ga mitakatta aozora

The Blue Sky I Wanted to See / “Thinking About the Blue Sky” Music Video

Boku ga Mitakatta Aozora, unveiled on June 15, 2023, is a Japanese female idol group produced by Yasushi Akimoto as the official rival to Nogizaka46.

Their debut single, “Thinking About the Blue Sky,” was released on August 30, 2023, and quickly generated buzz.

Musically, their work centers on poppy, catchy songs that enjoy overwhelming support from young people.

Their lyrics and melodies carry messages that give listeners courage and hope, radiating a stirring energy in contemporary society.

Another appeal lies in the members’ active engagement with fans on social media and their efforts to close the distance with fans during live performances.

BokuAoi is presenting a new model for idol groups through their music, and they are worth attention not only from idol fans but from a wider audience as well.

BOO!SHUTPIGGS

PIGGS / BOO!SHUT [Official Video]

Among the success stories drawing attention is PIGGS.

They are an idol group that debuted in 2020.

At first, they performed under the provisional name “Idol Research Institute.” They later changed the group name, made their major-label debut, and steadily grew their fanbase through live YouTube streams and crowdfunding.

By 2023, they were holding a nationwide tour and even appearing on TV.

They’re also recommended if you like rock-leaning songs, so be sure to give them a listen.

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