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 to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (41–50)
Suzunari Memoriesthe molars’
Let me introduce the Okuba’s, who are quickly gaining a reputation as “hot.” They’re a three-piece punk band from Hiroshima Prefecture.
Their first mini-album, Night Dwellers, features many songs that deeply move listeners and has become a hot topic.
The奥歯’s are also known for the sheer intensity of their live performances.
You’ll be blown away by their power the moment you see them.
If you’re interested, check out their tracks and then head to a show.
[2026] Next Big Breaks to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (51–60)
I want to be your lover.Chōkyūmei
A band name with such a curious ring to it makes you want to say it out loud a few times as soon as you see it, doesn’t it? Formed around 2020, Chōkyūmei is a four-piece centered on Rei—an alumna of the Showbi College of Music—who handles vocals as well as guitar and violin.
As of 2023, they’re one of the most talked-about young bands, widely seen as a sure bet for the next big breakthrough.
Many people likely discovered them through tie-ins such as March Bride, the theme song for the 2022 TV drama Ase to Sekken based on a popular manga, or Light Up Your Heart!, the ending theme for the drama Hey, Handsome Guys, Eat! that aired the same year.
Their supple band ensemble—underpinned by the high-level skills of every member—Rei’s expressive, ear-catching vocals and melodies, and the songs born from their lyrics are highly pop while brimming with rich ideas in the details, capturing the real lives of young people living in the 2020s.
If you’re into piano-driven pop, they’re definitely worth a listen.
LOG OUT4s4ki
4s4ki is an artist with many facets—singer, composer, producer, performer—and is gaining attention from overseas as well.
With a forward-thinking, high-sense musical style, a cute singing voice, and a fashion icon presence among younger generations, she’s a highly popular artist.
She released her first single, “Moldy,” in 2018 and made her major-label debut in 2021 with “FAIRYTALE feat.
Zheani.” She’s been releasing music energetically, so take this opportunity to keep up with her moves!
Summer breeze, you and I in lovekatakoto
Katakanato is a rock band formed by three members born in 2000.
They began activities in 2016 when the members were in junior high school and have achieved excellent results in numerous band contests, including Music Revolution and the Mikakunin Festival.
With refreshing vocals, melodic lines, and strong musicianship in every part, there’s plenty to see and hear.
Please take your time to savor their fresh yet sophisticated appeal.
Delusional scriptwriting activityasmi
In 2021, singer-songwriter asmi made a name for herself all at once by participating in MAISONdes’s track “Yowanehaki feat.
Wanuka is singing the Pokémon anime’s theme song “Dokimeki Diary.” Even before she gained mainstream attention, her talent was already blossoming—she won the teen-only audition “Jūdai Hakusho” Grand Prix and was featured on Rin音’s track, among other achievements.
Her vocals are characterized by a richly textured low-to-mid range that many listeners find soothing.
Her music also charms with a pop sensibility and a touch of fairytale-like whimsy.
SSMEPK shampoo
PK shampoo is a rock band active since 2018, formed around Yamato Punks and Kentaro Nishioka, who were members of Trashnoise.
Their hallmark is raw, emotionally charged vocals riding on noisy guitar sounds, with songs that radiate passion.
They began appearing at major rock festivals around 2022, and by 2023 they were in high demand at festivals across the country.
They’re truly one of the bands you can’t take your eyes off.
D♡VE QUEENSARM
SARM, an Osaka-born artist who can sing a wide range of styles rooted in jazz and blues.
Her fashion, fused with her music, has earned recognition overseas, and her live shows in Taiwan, Thailand, and Australia were a big success! Her track “BONBON GIRL” was even selected as a NEXT Break Song by J-WAVE, so she may be on the verge of a major breakthrough.
“D♡VE QUEEN,” which is gaining views on her video channel, uses “D♡VE” as a playful coined word that combines “dove” and “love,” showing off her mischievous side.
Once you hear it, you’ll surely be drawn in by her famed “diamond voice.”