[2026] A must-see for music lovers! Up-and-coming artists to watch
An era where new artists are emerging one after another at incredible speed.
It’s no longer uncommon for artists to gain traction through social media and then catch fire on streaming services!
In this article, we’ll spotlight rising musicians—primarily up-and-coming singer-songwriters and rock bands who are trending right now.
We’ll feature not only brand-new debuts, but also artists whose hard-earned efforts are finally blossoming and whose popularity is rapidly skyrocketing.
Be sure to find a favorite creator and give them a listen!
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[2026] Must-See for Music Lovers! Emerging Artists to Watch (71–80)
The 1muque
Formed in May 2022, muque is a four-piece band from Fukuoka whose members bring diverse musical backgrounds to the table.
Effortlessly leaping across genres like pop, R&B, and rock, their sound blends global musical elements with distinctly Japanese lyrics.
The lineup features Asakura, known for emotionally rich vocals; Lenon, who anchors the rhythm; takachi, who also handles contemporary track-making; and Kenichi.
Shortly after forming, they claimed the top spot on the Eggs Viewer rankings.
In November 2023, they released their album “Design,” and in early 2024 they contributed an insert song to a popular drama, steadily raising their profile.
With the four members’ individualities overlapping to create music that is mellow at times and edgy at others, muque is recommended not only for fans of Western music but also for listeners seeking fresh musical discoveries.
Starry NightYuka
Yuka, a singer-songwriter from Okinawa with a charming, softly enveloping voice, first came into the spotlight after winning the Special Jury Prize at an audition hosted by GYAO and Amuse, and releasing the indie track “Fish” in 2021.
She then made her major debut with “lullaby” in 2022, which was immediately selected as a film’s theme song.
In 2023, her song “Hoshizukiyo” gained huge popularity, partly because it was used as a TV drama’s theme song.
Her vocals are gentle in ballads and exude a cool, Western pop-like edge in up-tempo tracks—the more you listen, the more you’ll find yourself drawn into her allure.
Wish to the Moonsorato
Hailing from Nagasaki Prefecture, singer-songwriter sorato—highly acclaimed for their work—made a major-label debut in February 2025.
Rooted in J-POP while skillfully incorporating acoustic and rock elements, their hallmark is down-to-earth lyrics paired with simple melodies.
The intimate world woven from a six-tatami room and a voice that empathizes with human emotions have resonated strongly with listeners of the same generation.
Before debuting, they performed under the name “Sora Murakami,” gaining experience at circuit events such as MURO FESTIVAL, and in April 2025 they also provided an ending theme for a TV anime.
Based in Tokyo, they are active as a producer and remixer as well, known for sound production that prioritizes high-quality gear.
Their lyrics, which capture raw emotions, and melodies that strike the heart are especially appealing—recommended for those who cherish the quiet ache hidden in everyday life and the fleeting moments of brilliance.
From here onkepura
Kepla is drawing attention with down-to-earth lyrics that resonate with listeners and a driving, high-speed sound.
Formed in September 2020, the four-piece rock band has a youthfully evocative backstory: all members are classmates from Tokyo Metropolitan Saginomiya High School.
They made their debut in July 2021 with the mini-album “Days of Youth,” achieving a remarkable milestone as its tracks surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube.
In September 2024, they made their major-label debut with EMI Records, fully blooming with the skills they honed during their indie days.
Another appeal is their fan-centered approach: the members themselves handle merch and jacket design, keeping a close connection with their audience.
Their songs, which feel like snapshots of fleeting moments of youth, feature fresh sensibilities and lyrics that evoke real empathy, steadily growing their fanbase—especially among younger listeners.
Super StarFurui Riho
Singer-songwriter Furui Riho, from Otaru, Hokkaido.
She became interested in music after seeing a gospel live performance as a child, and began her full-scale music career in her first year of university.
In 2019, she released her debut single digitally; word of mouth spread, and she is now known as a standout artist of the new generation.
Once you listen, you’ll be hooked by her one-of-a-kind, emotionally charged word choices and infectious sense of rhythm.
She also writes songs for other artists, so keep an eye on that side of her work as well.
Sweet RainWOLF HOWL HARMONY
The audition “iCON Z ~Dreams For Children~” was held by LDH, and WOLF HOWL HARMONY is the vocal and rap group formed from its participants.
The group’s name was chosen because it’s made up of members who are like wolves howling.
Their appeal lies in their stylish style that fuses singing and rap into one.
Give them a listen and see for yourself.
Breathe in, breathe in here, keep on living.yui nishio
Let me introduce Yui Nishio, an artist who captivates fans with her gentle singing voice.
She is a singer-songwriter who began her career in 2016.
After receiving high praise in numerous auditions and contests, she finally made her long-awaited major-label debut in 2022.
She also drew attention for being selected for the NEXT NEWS Award in the Entertainment category at the LINE NEWS AWARDS 2022, which highlights artists expected to break out the following year.
Why not start by checking out her first album?