[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! Hot New Artists (31–40)
Tightly.mosao.
He’s one of those who went viral on TikTok, climbed various charts, and became a hot topic—following the path of a Reiwa-era hit! His relaxed, gentle vocals are so soothing to listen to.
The lyrics of Gyutto, the song that sparked his breakthrough, are written from a woman’s perspective and wonderfully convey warmth and happiness.
Its unadorned, true-to-life expressions captured the hearts of many listeners.
He quickly released new music after that track as well, and he’s been very active—definitely someone to keep an eye on going forward!
earth mealasmi
Asmi is a next-generation, highly skilled singer who won the Grand Prix in the 2020 Teenage White Paper.
同じ年、彼女はRin音の楽曲「earth meal」にフィーチャリングアーティストとして参加した。
asmi,” drawing attention for her sweet, smoky vocals.
In 2021, she gained rapid recognition after being selected as the vocalist for MAISONdes’s project track “Yonwanehaki.” She has continued to release music steadily since then, and with her captivating voice and lyrics that resonate with her generation, she’s poised for even greater success.
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 you were to translate “ego apartment” into Japanese, it might be something like “a dwelling for the self.” The fact that each member writes songs fits that 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!
spin; weave; compose (e.g., a story)tota
Tota is a bedroom artist with a diverse musical palette, ranging from indie rock to synth-pop.
They began their online activities in February 2021 and have been gaining attention primarily through social media.
In 2023, they provided the tie-in song for Kanro’s Pure Gummy web commercial.
Their own tracks have also earned overwhelming support from younger listeners, with more than 400 million plays on TikTok.
Their appeal lies in a distinctive husky voice—powerful yet transparent—and poetic word choice.
On the album “oidaki,” philosophical lyrics blend beautifully with tracks that evoke elements of bedroom pop.
In October 2023, they held their first solo live show at Shibuya WWW in Tokyo, drawing attention as a live performer as well.
Tota is an artist recommended for those seeking solace in delicate lyrics and a uniquely compelling voice.
VividMAZZEL
The boys’ group audition “MISSION×2,” hosted by SKY-HI, drew a lot of viewers who followed the journey through the show.
Out of that audition, MAZZEL was formed.
Their 2023 release “MISSION,” despite being a pre-debut track, became a major hit.
Around the same time, they also appeared on numerous TV programs.
I recommend checking out the song first, then taking a look at the individual profiles of the members.
[2026] Music Lovers, Take Note! Up-and-Coming New Artists (41–50)
To tell you the truth,yangusukinii
Young Skinny is a young rock band formed in 2020 that made their major-label debut in just three years.
Their popularity took off mainly on social media; their first live performance was a streaming concert, and before their major debut they released eight digital singles—truly a resume that epitomizes a new-generation band.
Their range is part of the appeal, from Hontō wa ne, with its light, breezy rhythms, to Suki Janai yo, a standout ballad notable for its tear-jerking guitar solo.
Keep an eye, too, on vocalist Kayayu’s performance, as he masterfully delivers any song using a wide array of vocal expressions.
What Do You Want?Rei
A singer-songwriter born in Hyogo Prefecture.
Their style, which has a Western pop feel, seems to stem from a blues influence.
The distinctive rhythms and guitar work really stick with you.
Rei originally aimed to be a classical guitarist.
Funky and cool, with a sense of moving between eras while still feeling stylish and contemporary, I think they’re a new-generation singer-songwriter.
Definitely one to watch!
