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

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

Singer-songwriter Koresawa from Osaka Prefecture captivates listeners with a uniquely husky voice that sinks deep into the heart.

Blending pop, folk, and indie, she launched her independent label RECO RECORDS in 2014 and began her music career.

Since her major-label debut in 2017, she has released a string of notable works, including the albums Kore Kara, Kore Desho, and Jun’ai Closet.

In 2024, she won the Japan Record Awards’ Lyricist Award.

Notably, she consistently appears in the media through her bear character, “Reko-chan.” Alongside her earnest dedication to music, her songs—filled with down-to-earth emotions woven into the lyrics—have become a comforting presence that resonates with many listeners in their everyday lives.

I wish I were the one you liked.Te ga kuriimu pan

I wish I were the one you love / Hands Like Cream Bread (Wishing I’m her / tegacreampan) [Official Music Video]

Debuting in 2021, Tegakurimpan is a female singer-songwriter who enjoys overwhelming support from young people, primarily on social media.

Her signature style combines lyrics that resonate with Gen Z and soothing melodies, and her debut track reached No.

9 on the LINE MUSIC real-time chart.

In 2022, her music was featured as the opening theme for a popular TV drama, steadily building her career.

She continues to perform without showing her face, preserving an air of mystery—her appeal is truly all about the music.

With a motto of living positively, she keeps creating songs that speak to listeners’ hearts.

She also has a unique side, such as dreaming of living in Cambodia.

She’s a perfect artist for those looking to discover music through social media.

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.

Wonderlandkyururin tte shite mite

“♡♡♡ Wonderland” MV / Kyururin tte Shitemite

Formed in January 2021, “Kyururin tte Shitemite” is an influencer-style idol group.

From the start, they drew exceptional attention, with a combined total of over 300,000 Twitter followers across all members, and they pursue a “cute realism” aimed at the social media generation.

While rooted in J-POP, their charm lies in catchy melodies and pop lyrics.

Three members are Miss iD award recipients, and the group brings together talented performers with diverse backgrounds, including models, TikTokers, and former idols.

As of February 2025, their YouTube channel boasts 110,000 subscribers, captivating many fans with adorable dance performances and fashionable outfits.

Highly recommended for those seeking new idol culture through social media.

I’m not sad.Fujita Kako

KAKO FUJITA – “I’m Not Sad” (Music Video)

Fujitakako is an artist whose emotionally rich lyrics move listeners’ hearts.

Her music delicately depicts fundamental human feelings such as sorrow and joy, resonating with many listeners.

In the song “Kanashikunai yo” (“I’m Not Sad”), Fujitakako touches on themes like lost love and a sense of defeat, delivering a powerful message to those who need emotional support.

Her works emphasize honoring each person’s experiences and emotions, conveying the importance of sincerely facing one’s inner self.

This is why she is supported by fans across a wide range of ages.

If you’re a fan of singer-songwriters, be sure to check out her music.

Utagokoro Rie

Rie Utagokoro – Clown’s Sonnet (Doukeshi no Sonetto) | Korea–Japan King of Singers, Episode 5

Rie Utagokoro has continued to share the allure of music across a wide range of genres.

She debuted in a duo with her older sister after the SOSY audition, expanding her activities from cool R&B and breezy pop to covering songs from Korean dramas.

Their song “200-Bai no Yume” (Two-Hundredfold Dream), which was also used in a Pocari Sweat commercial, drew attention for its vibrant harmonies.

In 2004, she performed as part of the unit September, arranged for piano and cello, presenting Japanese versions of songs featured in Korean dramas.

In 2024, she competed on the Japan–Korea Singing King Battle, broadcast on a Korean cable TV network, where her vocal prowess and stage performance were highly praised.

Rie Utagokoro’s voice, combining delicate emotional expression with powerful vocals, is sure to convey the full appeal of J-POP.

Idiots everywhere.Takaneru Rui

All Idiots / Lui Takane (official)

Also keep an eye on Lui Takane, who’s making waves with her husky voice.

She’s an artist active as a Virtual YouTuber and virtual idol.

With the persona of an executive of the organization “Secret Society holoX,” she sometimes shows off comedic interactions on social media.

To really appreciate her charm, it’s recommended to check out her songs along with 3D LIVE videos and casual chat streams.

In her live streams, she also interacts with fans, which makes her feel more approachable.

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