2026: Next Break to Watch. Japanese Artists to Check Out Early

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

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!

[2026] Next Big Breaks to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (71–80)

With you, on Earth8

Hayato Yoshida / With You on Earth (Official Music Video)

With you, on Earth8

Hachi, a next-generation singer based in Nara Prefecture.

In 2023, he released his song “Kimi to Chikyuu de” on his own TikTok account, and it went massively viral.

The track later received a music video as well.

One of his biggest appeals is his relatable lyrics.

He portrays down-to-earth love stories while infusing them with a warm message.

Another hallmark of his is that he posts a lot of short-form videos.

Starting from those is definitely a good option.

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ShortcutPerushikaria

Persicaria – Shortcut (Official Music Video)

ShortcutPerushikaria

The only official member is vocalist Yui Yaguchi; the others are support members.

They’re an indie rock band formed in 2020 and currently active.

In 2020, they provided the song “Shortcut” to yutori.

This track was created as an answer song to Persicaria’s “Sayonara Long Hair.” Many listeners are likely moved by Yaguchi’s solid, almost shouting vocal style.

Although the lineup of support members seems to change often, this is a band we hope will keep running without stopping.

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GREENAPPLE4na

4na – GREENAPPLE（Music Video）

GREENAPPLE4na

4na is a singer-songwriter who broke through thanks to her online presence on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

She began by posting “tried singing” cover videos and later started releasing her own original tracks.

Her work spans a wide range of styles—from rock songs with sharp, punchy guitar sounds to tracks featuring mellow, synth-driven atmospheres.

Her vocal work is diverse as well, with some songs showcasing rap, so be sure to check out a variety of her tracks.

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Let’s keep smilingkawanishi natsuki

Kawanishi Natsuki – Let’s Keep Smiling (Official Music Video)

Let's keep smilingkawanishi natsuki

Natsuki Kawanishi is a singer-songwriter from Nara Prefecture.

Videos of her busking performances have been uploaded online, including on YouTube, so some of you may have seen her there.

She captivates listeners with a resonant voice that makes full use of her rich lower and mid ranges, and her growing number of fans are being drawn in by that voice.

In July 2023, she joined ASOBISYSTEM, and even greater success is expected from her going forward.

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SCREAMWENDY

WENDY – SCREAM (Official Music Video)

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.

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TokyoTetsukaze Tōkyō

Tetsukaze Tokyo “Tokyo” Official Music Video

TokyoTetsukaze Tōkyō

Tetsukaze Tokyo is a rock band based in Sendai.

Formed in 2018, they drew attention when the music video for Gaitō to Apāto, released during their senior year of high school, became a hit, along with tracks uploaded to the music distribution site Eggs.

Their music features a heavy rock sound infused with warm guitar arpeggios, often evoking scenes that are wistful and emotional.

They are a band that delivers driving rock numbers in live performances, offering songs that resonate with the anxieties and loneliness of youth.

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Sweet RainWOLF HOWL HARMONY

WOLF HOWL HARMONY / ‘Sweet Rain’ Music Video

Sweet RainWOLF HOWL HARMONY

The audition “iCON Z ~Dreams For Children~” was held by LDH, and WOLF HOWL HARMONY is the vocal and rap group formed from its participants.

The group’s name was chosen because it’s made up of members who are like wolves howling.

Their appeal lies in their stylish style that fuses singing and rap into one.

Give them a listen and see for yourself.

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