[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] Music Lovers, Take Note! Emerging Artists to Watch (101–110)
PAPER MOONA-ko
Singer-songwriter Ako from Hyogo Prefecture is gaining attention for her distinctive musicality and creative expression.
Her signature sound fuses a wide range of genres, including pop, electronic, and jazz.
She began her full-fledged music career in 2020 and has built a unique world in collaboration with the creative team “londog.” Her major-label debut, released in February 2024 via Pony Canyon/IRORI Records, achieved the remarkable feat of being selected for power play on 36 AM/FM stations nationwide.
She’s steadily climbing as a next-generation artist, with her music also chosen as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s Drama 24.
Having picked up the guitar at age 11 and steadily honed her craft, she has created a musical world that enjoys strong support from music fans who favor highly artistic expression.
Diveziproom
Ziproom is a hip-hop collective based in Kobe.
The duo of Arich and Shimon has been drawing attention with a distinctive sound that deftly blends hip-hop, electro, and dance music.
They made their debut in January 2024 with the EP “unzip,” achieving the remarkable feat of entering Spotify’s Viral Top 50 charts in five countries, including Japan.
For mastering, they enlisted Stuart Hawkes—who has worked with global stars like Ed Sheeran and Charli XCX—earning acclaim for their polished sonic production.
In October 2024, they held release parties in Tokyo and Osaka, both of which sold out.
They were also selected by Spotify as next-generation artists to watch in 2025, steadily raising their profile in the scene.
With strong support from around the world, particularly on social media, their music is a must-listen that brings a fresh breeze to contemporary pop.
Jettin’THE JET BOY BANGERZ
THE JET BOY BANGERZ made a dazzling debut on August 23, 2023 with their first single “Jettin’,” and are a rising star formed under LDH JAPAN.
Boasting impressive backgrounds, the group consists of ten highly skilled members, including performers from LDH’s renowned dance league and vocal groups.
The diverse musicality each member brings has already captivated a wide range of listeners.
With a fresh sound aimed at Gen Z and performances that feel like watching a live show, they’re absolutely not to be missed!
I knowammo
A three-piece band from Higashi-Osaka formed in 2018.
The name “ammo” is pronounced “Amo.” The members are Yusei Okamoto on vocals and guitar, Soma Kawahara on bass, and Taiga Nishioka on drums.
Their store-exclusive single “Neta Buri no Kimi e” sold out immediately, and riding that momentum they quickly began nationwide distribution—proof of their talent recognized by the music industry.
Their sound also stands out for the way it lets you savor even the spaces between notes, a hallmark of three-piece bands.
First, I’d love for you to listen to their live staples and signature tracks “Korekkiri” and “Frontline.”
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.
[2026] Music lovers, don’t miss this! Emerging artists to watch (111–120)
This is fine.KALMA
Formed in Hokkaido in 2016, the band initially started as a cover band, but by 2018—two years later—they had grown enough to perform at JOIN ALIVE, a local outdoor festival.
Their sound carries a certain nostalgia, and their raw, full-throttle vocals grip you deep down and won’t let go.
They’re especially recommended if you’re looking for a band that captures the spirit of youth.
And as a three-piece band, that aspect alone might appeal to band enthusiasts.
Don’t die!kocchi no kento
Kento Sugo, who performs under the name Kocchi no Kento, has been attracting a lot of attention since his 2023 release “Shinuna!” went viral on social media.
He possesses outstanding vocal ability—he even won the national a cappella competition two years in a row while in college.
Leveraging that skill, he delivers performances featuring wide melodic leaps and emotionally charged singing.
By the way, his older brother is actor Masaki Suda, and he’s even created a birthday song for him.