2026: Next Break to Watch. Japanese Artists to Check Out Early
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!
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[2026] Next Big Break: Japanese Artists to Watch Early (1–10)
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.
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.
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.
[2026] Next Break to Watch: Japanese Artists You’ll Want to Check Out Early (11–20)
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.
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.
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.
A cowboy’s catchphraseInoue Sonoko
Sonoko Inoue is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter based in Shonan.
Drawing on the rich musical traditions of 60s–70s folk, rock, blues, country, and bluegrass, she crafts songs that capture everyday moments from a unique perspective.
She began her music career in 2022 after a chance encounter at the live house where she worked part-time, and has since expanded her activities from Kanagawa’s coastal cities—Chigasaki, Fujisawa, and Yokohama—to Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukui.
In September 2024, she made her long-awaited debut with the album “Hokorobi,” an ambitious project recorded in single takes using only her own songs, voice, and guitar.
The result is a timeless work that resonates with a wide audience, from those who lived through the Showa and Heisei eras to today’s youth.
She also serves as a radio personality on Chigasaki FM, showcasing her multifaceted talents and drawing attention as a leading figure in shaping a new Shonan sound.