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)

Youth Fantasy PoemHakanasono

Hakanen | Tokyo | WHO AM I? #Hakanen #TuneCoreJapan

Youth Fantasy PoemHakanasono

The song Youth Phantasy Poem sings of the fleeting nature of youth.

Thanks to its hit success, Hakanen has drawn the attention of many music fans.

He excels at infusing his tracks with complex emotions that are hard to put into words.

Although much of his profile remains shrouded in mystery, his Twitter and Instagram offer small glimpses into who he is.

Checking those alongside his music will likely make you appreciate him even more.

The images he posts also suggest he has a talent for photography.

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Don’t die!kocchi no kento

Don't die! / MV by Kocchino Kento

Don't die!kocchi no 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.

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In conclusion

We’ve rounded up a slate of next-break artists who are poised for a major hit.

From groups to solo acts, and from rock to hip-hop, we’ve picked them without regard to lineup or genre—so you’re sure to find a new favorite! If one of them catches your ear, be sure to dive into their other tracks too!