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 Break Artists to Watch. Japanese Music You Should Check Out Early (31–40)
MoveYukichi Kasaku/men
A singer-songwriter and trackmaker born in 2003 from Shizuoka Prefecture.
A multi-talented creator who not only produces music but also works on video and CG production.
Their hallmark is a free-form sound that blends elements of pop, jazz, electronic music, and hyperpop, and they showed precocious talent by starting to write songs in the sixth grade.
In 2018, they drew attention by winning the Jury’s Special Prize at the Mikakunin Festival.
In May 2021, they made their major debut with the simultaneous release of two EPs, “Karada Portable” and “Horu Assort.” They also gained buzz through collaborations with Soshi Sakiyama and AFRO PARKER.
Since October 2023, they have been working independently, continuing to express themselves across a wide range of activities including songwriting for others and video production.
Recommended for those who enjoy music that defies conventions and experimental sounds.
Today’s recommendationrikon densetsu
Divorce Densetsu is a music duo from Japan.
Their appeal lies in a unique sound that fuses J-pop, R&B, and pop music.
The duo is characterized by vocalist Ayumu Matsuda’s sweet, mellow high-tone voice and Jun Beppu’s freewheeling guitar playing.
The band name is derived from the Japanese title of Marvin Gaye’s album “Here My Dear.” They actively collaborate with a variety of musicians and have earned support from a wide audience.
If you’re looking for new music, you should definitely give them a listen.
accent colorBialystocks
Bialystocks is a duo that freely moves between the worlds of film and music.
Formed in 2019 by film director Sora Hokimoto and Tsuyoshi Kikuchi, whose roots are in jazz, their appeal lies in cinematic, scene-evoking sound that centers on J-pop while weaving in elements of folk and alternative.
They made their major debut in 2022 with the album “Quicksand,” and their signature song “Sashi Iro” was featured in a commercial for Kirin Namacha, bringing their name to a wide audience.
Music producer Koichi Tsutaya ranked their song “Lighthouse” second best of the year on a program aired in January 2023, a testament to their proven talent.
Blending a universal warmth with a cutting-edge sensibility, their music is perfect for listeners who want to immerse themselves deeply in a sonic world.
I don’t suit youyutori
yutori is a four-piece band formed in 2020, consisting of vocalist/guitarist Kotoko Sato, guitarist Fumiya Uchida, bassist Taichi Toyoda, and drummer Ren Urayama.
Their debut track, “Shortcut feat.
Yui Yaguchi,” took the No.
1 spot in four categories on the music distribution site Eggs.
They’re one of the bands drawing attention right now.
The band name comes from the fact that all four members belong to Japan’s “yutori” (relaxed education) generation.
Many listeners are likely to be captivated by the poised vocals and stylish yet familiar sound.
We can’t wait to see what they do next!
How to Love AfterimagesTele
Tele is taking the music scene by storm with literary lyrics and a singular sound.
Debuting with a digital single in January 2022, they released their first album, NEW BORN GHOST.
Rooted in alternative rock yet unconstrained by genre, their free-spirited musicality has won strong support, especially among younger listeners.
In 2023, they were selected for Spotify’s Early Noise 2023, drawing attention as a highly skilled artist.
Their poetic lyrics influenced by Chūya Nakahara and their sound shaped by bands like Yura Yura Teikoku and Fishmans weave a richly narrative world.
They’re an artist especially recommended for those interested in both music and literature.
[2026] Next Break to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (41–50)
Useless crossjo0ji
Singer-songwriter jo0ji from Tottori Prefecture crafts songs inspired by friends and everyday events, known for melodies and lyrics that closely resonate with listeners.
His first EP, “475,” includes tracks modeled on his father and childhood friend.
Selected for Spotify’s “Early Noise 2024,” he’s a promising new artist poised for greater recognition.
Balancing music with life as a fisherman lends his work depth and authenticity.
Highly recommended for those eager to discover fresh talent.
crashSugawara Kei
This is singer-songwriter Kei Sugawara, whose powerful vocals draw you in.
Around 2019, she began uploading cover videos to YouTube and later released original songs such as “crash.” Her emotional style has captivated listeners.
Many people probably admire this kind of cool vocal work.
In 2022, she released the single “ia,” and she was selected as one of the ten artists for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2022.” She’s an artist you won’t want to take your eyes off in the coming months!
