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)

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.”

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Taki no namida pin ku

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Sentimental KissShio Reira

Reira Shio - Sentimental Kiss [Official Music Video]

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.

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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!