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 Big Break: Japanese Artists to Watch Early (1–10)

Tonight’s fightmeiyo densetsu

Honor Legend – Tonight’s Fight (Music Video)

Tonight's fightmeiyo densetsu

Honor Legend is attracting attention as a breath of fresh air in the Japanese music scene.

With a unique sound that skillfully fuses pop music and Asian pop elements, they captivate listeners.

Starting with the release of the track “Loving” in May 2023, they have continued to put out buzzworthy works one after another.

Among them, “Proposal Lines” became a major hit, racking up over 960,000 views on YouTube.

From energetic dance numbers to moving ballads, their wide expressive range grips listeners’ hearts.

They’re an artist you should definitely check out if you’re looking to discover new music.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

dark; obscure; dim; the netherworld (poetic/literary)Chevon

Meimei / Chevon [Music Video]

dark; obscure; dim; the netherworld (poetic/literary)Chevon

Chevon is a highly anticipated up-and-coming rock band formed in 2021.

With their distinctive musical style and emotive performances, they’ve captured the hearts of music fans.

While rooted in rock, their diverse sound incorporates elements of electronica and post-punk, and together with Mayu Tani-Kinuba’s powerful vocals, it resonates deeply with listeners.

In 2022, they successfully held their first headlining show and appeared on Fuji TV’s FNS Music Festival.

Their propulsive melodies and serious, poetic lyrics create a soundscape that brings a fresh breeze to the contemporary music scene.

In 2024, they plan to embark on a headlining tour in support of their album “Chevon,” and their music—poised for even greater heights—is perfect for anyone looking to explore new possibilities in rock.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Music PrisonerSabasusutā

Saba Sister – Music Prisoner Music Video

Music PrisonerSabasusutā

A three-piece girls’ band formed in March 2022.

With a rapid rise, they quickly appeared at festivals and circuit events, and just one year after forming, they boasted enough popularity to sell out every venue on their own tour.

The lyrics and melodies spun from Nachi’s unique sensibilities are striking, and the members’ passion for music is also compelling.

Blending universality with originality, their music is recommended for anyone looking to discover new talent.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

[2026] Next Break to Watch: Japanese Artists You’ll Want to Check Out Early (11–20)

Dancing on the MirrorTomei

Tomei – Dancing on the Mirror [Official Lyric Video]

Dancing on the MirrorTomei

A female singer-songwriter born in 2003.

Her popularity grew from TikTok videos filmed in her closet, and she made her major debut in July 2023.

Recognized for her talent by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS, she drew attention after being selected as the vocalist for the theme song of the film Suzume.

Her appeal lies in her translucent voice and versatile musicality.

Her vocals, which reveal different nuances with each track, are a must-listen.

She’s an artist I highly recommend to anyone seeking fresh talent.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

First Love Killernozomi

Noashi (noa) – First Love Killer [Official Music Video]

First Love Killernozomi

A multi-creator who launched her full-fledged music career in 2023, Noshika handles everything herself—from lyrics, composition, and arrangement to vocals and artwork—and her talent has quickly captured the hearts of music fans.

Trained in piano and violin from a young age and diving into composition after discovering DTM in college, her music reflects influences from Ringo Sheena and RADWIMPS while establishing a world uniquely her own.

A track that went viral on TikTok was featured in an Ito En commercial, and she was selected for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2025.” She has also created themes for TV dramas and films and expanded her range with collaborations, including one with Shingo Katori.

With razor-sharp lyricism and addictive melodies that evoke modern romance and the atmosphere of the city, she is widely anticipated as a promising new talent in J-pop.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Flying TokyoCHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN

Flying Tokyo

Flying TokyoCHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN

CHO CO PA CO CHO CO QUIN QUIN captivates listeners with a unique sound that fuses electronic and folk music.

They debuted in 2023 with the album “tradition,” and their track “Soratobu Tokyo” drew immediate attention upon release.

Their talent has been recognized as well, including a nomination for the Apple Vinegar Music Award.

The members’ richly diverse musical backgrounds give rise to experimental and uninhibited expression.

Their popularity has been spreading among young people via TikTok and Instagram, with street performances and improvisation videos generating buzz.

With a strong emphasis on visuals and live performance, their music is perfect for anyone seeking something new.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

I’m about to cry.The Otals

[MV] I’m About to Cry / The Otals

I’m about to cry.The Otals

The masked neo-shoegaze duo The Otals captivate with a uniquely crafted world of their own.

Influenced heavily by 2000s indie pop and paired with artwork reminiscent of American cartoons, they proudly proclaim themselves “the world’s most accessible shoegaze.” Debuting in March 2021 with the free EP The Night Swallows, they’re defined by sweet melodies and Pet Sounds–style choral arrangements.

The male–female harmonies of June FAXxxxxx and Marina Timer strike a perfect balance between shoegaze’s signature textures and pop-friendly immediacy.

Since their first live show in August 2024, they’ve steadily grown their fanbase, and their upcoming one-man show at Shindaita FEVER in February 2025 has already sold out.

Highly recommended not only for fans of shoegaze and indie pop, but also for anyone seeking a fresh musical discovery.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem