2026: Next Break to Watch. Japanese Artists to Check Out Early
When you listen to music, do you actively look for new tracks?
Even in today’s age of streaming, where you can play anything instantly, many of us still end up looping our favorite artists’ songs.
So in this article, for those who are thinking, “I want to discover artists I’ve never heard of before!”, we’ll introduce next-break artists who are all but guaranteed to surge in popularity.
We’ve picked out a wide range—from acts already starting to break through to singers gaining buzz among music fans—so be sure to check out their music now while you’re ahead of the curve!
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[2026] Next Break Artists to Watch. Japanese Acts You Should Check Out Early (61–70)
Boys Don’t CryYOAKE
YOAKE is a band project that operates with a style of featuring different vocalists for each song.
They made their major debut in 2023, and combined with their mysterious band image, they’ve been generating a lot of buzz.
Among their works, the signature track “Nee,” released in 2022, went viral online, and its music video has surpassed 10 million views.
In addition to its romance-themed lyrics, the song’s easy listening quality and replayable charm have captured the hearts of many listeners.
it takes twoego apratment
Ego Apartment is a music unit consisting of three members: bassist Dyna, guitarist and vocalist Peggy Doll, and guitarist and vocalist Zen.
If you were to translate “ego apartment” into Japanese, it might be something like “a dwelling for the ego.” The fact that each member writes songs fits that name perfectly.
It’s hard to pigeonhole their music as R&B, electronica, or hip-hop; no matter which track you listen to, you’ll undoubtedly feel it’s a one-of-a-kind sound.
If you listen to one of their signature songs, “it takes two,” you’re sure to be hooked!
Starry NightYuka
Yuka is a next-generation artist who debuted at the age of 21.
She began composing at 17, and her participation in the audition project “NEW CINEMA PROJECT” at 19 led to her debut.
Her debut song, “lullaby,” also drew attention for being produced by Toru, the guitarist of ONE OK ROCK.
Then in 2023, her release “Hoshizukiyo” sparked a surge in popularity.
Her beautiful singing voice is a must-hear.
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.
Duckykankan
The mysterious singer Kankan is also an artist to watch.
Their gender hasn’t been officially disclosed, but photos they once posted have led people to believe they are male.
In 2018, their first cover song video went viral, instantly boosting their popularity.
They then took on an ambitious “30 days of consecutive uploads” challenge, gaining many subscribers.
The momentum didn’t stop—just three months after their first post, they reached 10,000 subscribers.
Since then, they’ve been consistently releasing hit songs.
run.CVLTE
How about some sophisticated, modern music? This is CVLTE, a band from Sapporo, Hokkaido.
A four-piece consisting of vocalist aviel kaei, guitarist Takuya, bassist fuji, and drummer HAL, they started their activities around 2018 and have released popular tracks like “paradise.
(feat.
demxntia),” “hedonist.,” and “run.” Their sound is distinctive for incorporating elements of EDM and loud rock.
I’m super excited to see what they do next!
Don’t get my hopes up.maharājiyan
If you’re seeing him for the first time, his appearance might surprise you! He’s Maharajan, a singer-songwriter known for his turban trademark and retro-pop sound.
He had been active in music before, and since 2019 he has been releasing tracks under the name Maharajan.
He’s well-regarded for his pleasant, immersive sound and lyrics full of humor.
He’s also released covers of famous songs like “MONKEY MAGIC,” so some of you might know him from those.