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 Big Breaks to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (71–80)
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!
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.
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.
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.
Selfish girlfriendAkiyama Ritsuki
Ritsuki Akiyama is a singer-songwriter from Saitama whose relatable vocals and innocent musicality have earned strong support.
She won the Grand Prix at the 2017 rock festival event “Mikakunin Festival,” drawing significant attention.
Since then, she has performed actively and, from 2021, has been releasing music videos and live footage on YouTube.
She was also named in a Spotify initiative highlighting artists expected to break through in 2022, making her a talent to watch in the coming years.
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.
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.
