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

Don’t die!kocchi no kento

Don't die! / MV by Kocchino Kento

Kento Sugo, who performs under the name Kocchi no Kento, has been attracting a lot of attention since his 2023 release “Shinuna!” went viral on social media.

He possesses outstanding vocal ability—he even won the national a cappella competition two years in a row while in college.

Leveraging that skill, he delivers performances featuring wide melodic leaps and emotionally charged singing.

By the way, his older brother is actor Masaki Suda, and he’s even created a birthday song for him.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

Sentimental KissShio Reira

Reira Shio - Sentimental Kiss [Official Music Video]

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.

Double Double FIGHT!CANDY TUNE

[MV] CANDY TUNE “Bai Bai FIGHT!”

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.

DropHANA

HANA / Drop -Music Video-

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.

CANDYICEx

ICEx – CANDY (Official Music Video)

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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Rock This Partytimelesz

Rock this Party

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.

Wonderlandkyururin tte shite mite

“♡♡♡ Wonderland” MV / Kyururin tte Shitemite

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.