[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! Up-and-Coming New Artists (41–50)
RippleAo
ao is a singer-songwriter who made her major-label debut in 2021 at the young age of 15.
She drew attention for being selected for RADAR: Early Noise 2022, Spotify’s annual showcase of next-break artists, and if you listen to the radio often, you may have already heard her songs.
Having started writing music in elementary school, she captivates with her songwriting talent and rich, resonant voice.
Her irresistibly absorbing tracks are sure to garner even more attention in the future.
[2026] Music lovers, take note! Up-and-coming new artists (51–60)
flower hat jellyfishKujira Yoru no Machi
Gaining popularity as a band that creates fantasy, Kujira Yoru no Machi was formed by high school classmates and has won numerous music contests, competitions, and auditions.
In 2019, they performed at SUMMER SONIC 2019.
After their major-label debut was set for spring 2023, they released the pre-debut singles “Odorou Inochi Aru Kagiri” and “Hanagasa Kurage.” True to their motto of creating fantasy, their songs overflow with an original, storybook-like worldview that irresistibly draws listeners in.
duri-dadeChilli Beans.
Chilli Beans.
is a three-piece female band formed in 2019.
Even their band name—taking “Chilli” from Red Hot Chili Peppers and adding “Beans” to evoke the image of fledgling musicians with bright potential—feels charming and appealing.
All three members trained at the music school Voice and have solid skills: MOTO, whose vocals are both languid and girlish; Lily, the guitarist-vocalist with a striking range of ideas; and Maika, the bassist-vocalist who can also pull off slap bass.
All three write songs, crafting pop music rooted in the diverse musical backgrounds typical of today’s youth—where linear time and other conventions don’t necessarily apply.
Their sound has been catching the ears of sharp-eared music fans, and they’re widely seen as on the verge of a breakthrough.
Their 2021 co-write with Vaundy, a popular artist who also attended Voice, “lemonade,” became a viral hit and has surpassed 1.8 million views on YouTube.
In March 2022 they released their latest EP to date, Daydream, showcasing superb pop sensibilities that resonate with both city pop and Western acts like The 1975.
Keep an eye on Chilli Beans.!
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.
25eill
Born in 1998 and hailing from Tokyo, eill is a singer-songwriter known for her clear, refreshing vocals.
Inspired by K-pop to pursue a singing career, she made her major debut at 22.
In July 2021, she performed the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama, drawing attention for a voice reminiscent of Hikaru Utada.
She has also written songs for Korean artists, expanding her activities both in Japan and abroad.
True to her stage name, which is derived from a goddess of healing, eill’s music moves many listeners and has the power to soothe the heart.
Her unique musicality, which incorporates K-pop vocal techniques, is recommended for music fans seeking a fresh, contemporary sound.
white mageshallm
Shallm is a band project shining as a star in the new music scene.
The music created by vocalist Lia is characterized by lyrics filled with longing and hope, paired with a melodic sound.
They’re already well supported by many listeners on music streaming services, and they’re gaining attention across genres, including performing anime theme songs.
Be sure to experience the unique aura and musicality of Lia and shallm!
ORDERCLAN QUEEN
CLAN QUEEN, a cutting-edge creative unit poised to lead the next generation, is rapidly gaining attention.
Relaunched in 2022, the trio centers their work on “creative neo-rock” infused with dark, funky elements, producing highly artistic creations not only in music but also across video and graphic media.
Since 2023, they’ve earned strong online acclaim, including high placements on Spotify’s viral charts.
Riding this momentum, they sold out their first headlining show in April 2024 on the day tickets went on sale.
Their one-of-a-kind sound—woven from yowa’s versatile vocals that range from shouts to whispers, AOi’s rap, and Mai’s basslines—is bringing a fresh breeze to the modern rock scene.
A must-listen for music fans drawn to progressive art rock.