[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] A Must-See for Music Lovers! Up-and-Coming New Artists (21–30)
words of blessingTele
Tele suddenly appeared in 2022 as the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, who handles vocals.
In 2023, they were booked for major rock festivals, and they’re an artist expected to make even bigger waves on the music scene.
Their appeal lies in the accessibility of the songs.
Overall, the music has a pop atmosphere, with a soft high-tone voice and plenty of catchy elements, making many tracks easy to listen to for a wide audience.
But that’s not all—each song also carries a deeper charm, such as dramatic developments and lyrics that evoke vivid scenes.
Be sure to explore various tracks.
playing dumb; feigning ignorance; acting like you don’t knowTETORA
TETORA is a three-piece girls’ band from Osaka.
They’re known for emotional lyrics and catchy melodies.
The vocalist, Ueno Hayune, is praised for her cool husky voice.
Their biggest draw is, above all, their realistic lyrics—not superficial words, but straightforward lines that come straight from the heart.
In their 2019 “Wanpaku Tour,” they even recorded sell-outs, making them a band that’s currently climbing the steps to top-artist status!
[2026] Music Lovers, Take Note! Hot New Artists (31–40)
GOLDPEOPLE 1
PEOPLE 1 is a band formed in 2019 whose wide range of genres pulls listeners deeper into the world of their music the more you listen.
In 2020, they released two EPs, “Popular Music” and “GANG AGE,” and played their first live show at an event held at Ebisu LIQUIDROOM in 2021.
They first drew major attention when their 2020 track “Flopnik” appeared in YouTube ads; its electric melody and cute anime visuals captivated many viewers.
In 2022, their song “DOGLAND” was featured as an ending theme for the popular anime Chainsaw Man, bringing them even more recognition.
mutualHakubi
Hakubi is a three-piece rock band that started their activities in Kyoto in 2017.
Their lyrics, at times relatable and at times striking, have a sharp allure that pierces deep into listeners’ hearts.
On top of that, vocalist Katagiri’s cool, translucent voice and the performance grounded in authentic guitar rock are sure to captivate many Japanese rock fans.
Since their formation, they’ve steadily expanded their scope year by year, and they’re gradually becoming a nationally recognized band well worth keeping an eye on.
my lifemiyuna
She is Miyuna, a singer-songwriter known for her distinctive husky voice.
In 2016, she won a spot through the open-call category to perform at a-nation Fukuoka, and in 2019 she appeared at Fuji Rock.
She has also sung theme songs for anime such as Black Clover and FAIRY TAIL, among many other achievements that attest to her talent.
With a naturally captivating voice that grabs you from the first listen and exceptional vocal prowess honed through years of effort, she is a truly compelling singer.
How to Love AfterimagesTele
Tele is taking the music scene by storm with literary lyrics and a singular sound.
Debuting with a digital single in January 2022, they released their first album, NEW BORN GHOST.
Rooted in alternative rock yet unconstrained by genre, their free-spirited musicality has won strong support, especially among younger listeners.
In 2023, they were selected for Spotify’s Early Noise 2023, drawing attention as a highly skilled artist.
Their poetic lyrics influenced by Chūya Nakahara and their sound shaped by bands like Yura Yura Teikoku and Fishmans weave a richly narrative world.
They’re an artist especially recommended for those interested in both music and literature.
it takes twoego apratment
Ego Apartment is a music unit consisting of three members: Dyna on bass, Peggy Doll on guitar and vocals, and Zen also on guitar and vocals.
If we translate “ego apartment” into Japanese, it might be something like “the dwelling of the self.” Each member writes songs, and that activity fits the name perfectly.
It’s hard to categorize their music as R&B, electronica, hip-hop, or anything else—no matter which track you listen to, you’re sure to feel their one-of-a-kind sound.
If you listen to one of their signature songs, “it takes two,” you’ll definitely be hooked!