[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)
Don’t get my hopes up.maharājiyan
Maharajan is a mysterious singer-songwriter with a curious look: a suit paired with a turban.
While working as a salaryman, he also pursued music and released his first recording in 2019.
He later quit his job to focus on music full-time, and after appearing on THE FIRST TAKE in 2021, even more music fans came to know his name.
Having devoured music from all kinds of genres during his university days, his songs are stylishly crafted with influences from a wide range of styles.
Many of his tracks are addictively catchy, and it really feels like his popularity is set to soar!
FLOOR IS MINE (feat. BIM)Skaai
Rapper Skaai, who is drawing attention and gaining support especially among younger generations, has a rather unconventional background.
He was born in the United States to a Korean mother, later moved to Japan, and studied in the Faculty of Law at Kyushu University.
His rap style makes use of his background by blending English, Korean, and Japanese.
He first began attracting attention as a rapper thanks to an audition show, where you can also get a sense of his passionate personality.
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!
Youth Fantasy PoemHakanasono
The song Youth Phantasy Poem sings of the fleeting nature of youth.
Thanks to its hit success, Hakanen has drawn the attention of many music fans.
He excels at infusing his tracks with complex emotions that are hard to put into words.
Although much of his profile remains shrouded in mystery, his Twitter and Instagram offer small glimpses into who he is.
Checking those alongside his music will likely make you appreciate him even more.
The images he posts also suggest he has a talent for photography.
Talking Box (Dirty Pop Remix)WurtS
WurtS began his solo music career online in 2020.
Starting in 2021, those tracks garnered attention, and he quickly rose to popularity.
In signature songs like “Wakattenai yo” and “Mahou no Soup,” his relaxed, unforced vocals, catchy melodies, and danceable beats layer together for a fun result.
He has a way of making alternative rock feel more familiar and approachable.
[2026] Music Lovers, Take Note! Up-and-Coming New Artists (41–50)
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!
Dinner Songtuki.
Singer-songwriter tuki., who has gained attention through activity centered on the internet such as YouTube.
She writes and composes her own songs, and her 2023 release “Bansanka” drew major attention for having been produced when she was 15 years old.
She uploads warm, performance-focused guitar and piano self-accompanied videos to YouTube and Instagram, releasing both covers and original tracks.
A female vocalist who delivers heartwarming songs to listeners with a clear, translucent voice.
