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)

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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Toryanseatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Toryanse (Official Music Video)

Toryanseatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu

ATARASHII GAKKO! is a four-member dance performance unit that captivates audiences with their sailor uniforms and a distinctive artistic world.

They made their major debut in June 2017 with Doku Hana.

Known for performances that fuse Showa-era musical flavors with modern dance styles, the members themselves handle the choreography and production of their songs.

In 2021, they made their global debut through 88rising under the name ATARASHII GAKKO!.

Their total following on social media exceeds 14 million, earning support from a wide range of listeners.

They are highly recommended for those drawn to avant-garde performances and a unique creative vision.

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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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run.CVLTE

CVLTE – run. (Official Music Video)

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!

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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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A sky from some dayA Natsume

Someday Sky – A Natsume (Official Music Video)

A sky from some dayA Natsume

Like Rin-ne and Kubota Kai, A Natsume is an artist signed to ROOFTOP.

In 2020, his appearance on the dating reality show “Koisuru ♥ Shūmatsu Homestay” helped his name spread rapidly.

His greatest charm lies in his gentle singing voice, and combined with songs crafted with soft sounds that create a calm atmosphere, many of his tracks are soothing to listen to.

He’s an artist I especially hope younger listeners will take the time to dive into.

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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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