[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 (121–130)
SCREAMWENDY
WENDY is a rock band formed by four members who met at a youth center in Setagaya Ward.
After starting their activities in 2020, word of mouth spread online and they quickly became a hot topic.
In 2022, they held their first one-man show and released their debut album, “Don’t waste my YOUTH,” keeping the momentum going.
They also drew attention for releasing a track produced with Mark Whitmore.
Since their lyrics are in English, they’re a great recommendation for fans of Western music.
300 yenotonari ni ginga keikaku
A band formed by four people who met at a music school, Otonari Niginga Keikaku.
They formed in February 2023 and soon released their first EP.
Since then, they have been actively working based in Nagoya.
Their songs tend to give a happy impression, which may be one reason they’re supported by many people.
Otonari Niginga Keikaku also runs various social media accounts, so it might be a good idea to check out whichever ones interest you.
Selfish girlfriendAkiyama Ritsuki
Ritsuki Akiyama is a singer-songwriter from Saitama Prefecture, known for a down-to-earth vocal style and innocent musicality.
She won the Grand Prix at the 2017 rock festival event “Mikakunin Festival,” which put her in the spotlight.
Since then, she has performed live energetically and has been releasing music videos and live footage on YouTube since 2021.
She was also named in a Spotify initiative highlighting artists poised to break through in 2022, making her a talent to watch in the coming years!
OrionTetsukaze Tōkyō
Teppe Tokyo has been getting attention for their emotive vocals with a relaxed vibe.
They’re a four-piece rock band based in Sendai.
Their music video for “Gaitō to Apāto,” uploaded to YouTube in 2021, went viral, and they made their first TV appearance in 2022.
Since then, they’ve been active, performing at various festivals and more.
Also, you can’t talk about them without mentioning their social media.
They update Instagram and other platforms frequently, so check them out if you’re interested.
[2026] Music Lovers, Don’t Miss This! Emerging Artists to Watch (131–140)
Wonderlandkyururin tte shite mite
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.
Suzunari Memoriesthe molars’
Let me introduce the molars, the band everyone’s calling “hot.” They’re a three-piece punk band from Hiroshima Prefecture.
Their first mini-album, Night Dwellers, features many tracks that stir the listener’s heart and has been generating a lot of buzz.
The molars are also known for the sheer intensity of their live performances—once you see them, you’ll be blown away by their power.
If you’re interested, check out their songs and then head to a show.
Parting Flowersurii
Surii is active across a wide range of fields.
His name became widely known in 2018, when the first song he released as a Vocaloid producer became a big hit.
Since then, he has led the Vocaloid scene and created many tracks.
In 2021, he debuted as a singer-songwriter by self-covering his own Vocaloid songs.
The way he performs his own music—surpassing even the Vocaloid versions—is truly breathtaking.
He has also expanded his activities, such as by providing songs to Ado.