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 Break to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (81–90)
Baby, baby, baby!neguse.
Neguse is a four-piece band formed in Nagoya in 2020.
Their motto is all about smiles.
Indeed, starting with guitarist-vocalist Ryotachi, all the members have wonderful smiles.
Their first solo headlining show sold out, and whenever they play festivals, entry restrictions go up.
If you’re a band fan living in Nagoya, there might not be anyone who doesn’t know them.
With a name like “Neguse” (bedhead), I expected a quirky sound, but they’re incredibly easy to listen to! Their groove is great too, so it’s no wonder their live shows get so hyped.
Sentimental KissShio Reira
Reira Ushio is a rising singer-songwriter known for her distinctive worldbuilding and clear, crystalline vocals.
Drawing on her literary training at university, she’s gaining attention for meticulous word choice and rich musicality.
She debuted with a digital single in September 2021 and has continued to release melodic tracks.
In August 2023, she achieved her long-awaited major debut with Sony Music Labels.
A song used as BGM on an ABEMA dating show reached No.
1 on Spotify’s Viral Chart.
In August 2024, she released her first EP on CD, and in the fall she captivated fans nationwide with a Tokyo-Nagoya-Osaka tour and an acoustic tour.
A true all-rounder who handles everything from writing and composing to arranging and producing, she actively engages with fans on social media.
Her lyrics vividly capture the delicate emotions of youth, and her ear-catching melodies are sure to resonate with listeners.
Future IslandMori Calliope
Mori Calliope is a rapper and Virtual YouTuber affiliated with hololive.
She is also a member of “Myth,” a unit within hololive English that is primarily active in the English-speaking world, and she is often credited as “Mori Calliope” as an artist. She began her activities in 2020, made her major debut in 2022, and drew significant attention in 2023 with the release of “Future Island.” Her smooth, powerful English pronunciation—befitting an artist active in the English-speaking scene—is particularly striking.
Your Dreamland4s4ki
4s4ki is a female singer-songwriter from Saitama Prefecture who deftly navigates a wide range of genres, including alternative rock and electronica.
She began teaching herself DTM at 17 and launched full-scale activities in 2019 by founding SAD15mg.
In 2021, she made her major-label debut with Victor Entertainment and has since attracted attention both in Japan and abroad.
She earned high acclaim overseas as well, ranking on Pitchfork’s “The 100 Best Songs of 2022,” and continues to expand her activities across borders.
She has showcased her talents across diverse fields, including a collaboration with the anime Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion and the collaborative EP 44th Dimension with American EDM producer YULTRON.
Her distinctive sound and candid, resonant lyrics captivate listeners, winning over both Western music fans and anime fans.
0 to 10Bleecker Chrome
Bleecker Chrome is a hip-hop duo made up of Xin and KENYA, also selected for Spotify’s RADAR: Early Noise 2022.
They released their first EP, “Born Again,” in 2019 and then went on hiatus.
In 2022, they resumed activities and released their first album, “SEVEN THIRTY ONE.” Having spent their middle school years training in New York, they exude a refined style and a wide-ranging sensibility beyond their age.
For fans, this comeback has been long-awaited.
If you haven’t listened yet, take this opportunity to dive into the world of Bleecker Chrome.
Double Double FIGHT!CANDY TUNE
The idol group CANDY TUNE, rapidly rising in popularity mainly on social media, is making waves in the music scene.
Formed in February 2023 from ASOBISYSTEM’s project KAWAII LAB., they began activities as a seven-member group and made their debut with the digital album “CANDY TUNE,” showcasing a wide musical range from classic idol pop to electropop.
With active updates on social media and catchy songs, they’ve shown remarkable growth—pulling off a successful one-man show at Zepp Shinjuku just eight months after their debut.
Their strengths lie in each member’s individual charm, well-balanced performances, and close connection with fans, making them a recommended group not only for idol enthusiasts but also for pop music fans.
[2026] Next Break Artists to Watch. Japanese Acts You’ll Want to Check Out Early (91–100)
A world without youto shiki
Toshiki is a singer-songwriter from Hyogo Prefecture who is active on social media and through street performances.
While rooted in J-pop, he stands out with a distinctive voice and vocal style, making him an artist to watch.
A song he posted on social media in 2022 resonated especially with teens, reaching No.
1 on Spotify’s Viral Chart and No.
2 on LINE MUSIC’s real-time ranking.
It also sparked a huge response on social platforms, with over 4,000 related videos created.
On June 22, 2024, he held his solo concert “YOAKE,” captivating many fans.
With lyrics that vividly portray everyday emotions and experiences and melodies that strike a chord, he’s a recommended artist for anyone who wants to feel the subtleties of love and youth.