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 Break Artists to Watch. Japanese Acts You’ll Want to Check Out Early (91–100)

In Love with the Mirrorraisan

Praise – In Love with the Mirror

In Love with the Mirrorraisan

Reisan is a rising band attracting attention on the music scene.

Formed in December 2021, they’ve captivated many listeners with a unique sound that fuses rock and pop around a hip-hop core.

Their hallmark is CLR’s expressive vocals—interweaving rap and singing—paired with a powerful, full-bodied sound from the skilled members.

Their February 2024 EP, “PEAK TIME,” further broadened their musical range.

The nationwide one-man tour “NICE BUDDY” held in 2025 saw every show sell out on the same day tickets went on sale.

They’ve also been active beyond music, including a collaboration with Kasugai Confectionery’s “Mochira,” earning high praise from the media.

They’re a recommended band for listeners seeking new possibilities in music.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

I knowammo

ammo – I Know – Live at BIGCAT

I knowammo

A three-piece band from Higashi-Osaka formed in 2018.

The name “ammo” is pronounced “Amo.” The members are Yusei Okamoto on vocals and guitar, Soma Kawahara on bass, and Taiga Nishioka on drums.

Their store-exclusive single “Neta-buri no Kimi e” sold out immediately, and on that momentum they launched nationwide distribution—proof of their industry-recognized talent.

Their sound also stands out for the way it lets you savor even the spaces between notes, a hallmark of three-piece bands.

Start with their staple live favorites and signature tracks “Korekkiri” and “Frontline.”

Raise the rankinglower

Taki no namida pin ku

Report a problem

DropHANA

HANA / Drop -Music Video-

DropHANA

HANA, formed through the girls’ group audition “No No Girls,” drew attention for its groundbreaking selection process with no restrictions on appearance, age, or weight.

Chosen from over 7,000 applications from Japan and abroad, the seven members each bring distinctive appeal and present a musical style that blends multiple genres while rooted in pop.

Although they only released their pre-debut track in January 2025, under the guidance of producer Chanmina, they already demonstrate strong performance skills in both vocals and dance.

Pre-debut events are scheduled for March in Osaka and Saitama, and expectations for their future success are high.

They’re the perfect group for those seeking expressive performances and a new idol image that prioritizes diversity.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Rock This Partytimelesz

Rock This Party

Rock This Partytimelesz

A group with a 13-year history has evolved into a new form.

Following reforms at their management company, they changed their name to timelesz and launched activities with an eight-member lineup by adding five new members to the original three.

While rooted in J-pop, their ambitious approach—venturing into dance music, R&B, and electropop—stands out.

Since their debut in 2011, they have produced numerous hit songs, earned Excellent Work Awards at the Japan Record Awards, and frequently ranked high on the Oricon charts.

Under the new structure, they are also looking to expand overseas and are actively engaging with fans via social media.

With powerful dance performances and vocal prowess that highlights each member’s individuality, they’re perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy next-generation entertainment.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Wonderlandkyururin tte shite mite

“♡♡♡ Wonderland” MV / Kyururin tte Shitemite

Wonderlandkyururin tte shite mite

Formed in January 2021, “Kyururin tte Shitemite” is an influencer-style idol group.

From the start, they drew exceptional attention, with a combined total of over 300,000 Twitter followers across all members, and they pursue a “cute realism” aimed at the social media generation.

While rooted in J-POP, their charm lies in catchy melodies and pop lyrics.

Three members are Miss iD award recipients, and the group brings together talented performers with diverse backgrounds, including models, TikTokers, and former idols.

As of February 2025, their YouTube channel boasts 110,000 subscribers, captivating many fans with adorable dance performances and fashionable outfits.

Highly recommended for those seeking new idol culture through social media.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

From here onkepura

Kepla / From Now On (Lyric Video)

From here onkepura

Kepla is drawing attention with down-to-earth lyrics that resonate with listeners and a driving, high-speed sound.

Formed in September 2020, the four-piece rock band has a youthfully evocative backstory: all members are classmates from Tokyo Metropolitan Saginomiya High School.

They made their debut in July 2021 with the mini-album “Days of Youth,” achieving a remarkable milestone as its tracks surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube.

In September 2024, they made their major-label debut with EMI Records, fully blooming with the skills they honed during their indie days.

Another appeal is their fan-centered approach: the members themselves handle merch and jacket design, keeping a close connection with their audience.

Their songs, which feel like snapshots of fleeting moments of youth, feature fresh sensibilities and lyrics that evoke real empathy, steadily growing their fanbase—especially among younger listeners.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

CANDYICEx

ICEx – CANDY (Official Music Video)

CANDYICEx

ICEx is a musical unit born from EBiDAN, an artist collective composed of actors and talents from Stardust Promotion.

With the concept of “loving all forms of love,” the unit name is pronounced “Ice.” When the group was formed in 2023, all members were teenagers, making it a young and up-and-coming unit.

Their sharp dance moves and fresh vocals are a major draw.

EBiDAN has produced many popular units, including Cho Tokkyu (BULLET TRAIN), so ICEx is definitely one to keep an eye on.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem