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 to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (41–50)

super wobblyNekura Tōkī

Necry Talkie MV “Super GunyaGunya” / NECRY TALKIE – Super GunyaGunya

super wobblyNekura Tōkī

Nekritalkie is a five-piece band formed in 2017, known for their pop melodies and lyrics that are comedic yet negative.

In March 2019, Ikuka Nakamura joined as the official keyboardist, further enriching their sound.

They made their major-label debut with Sony Music in 2020 and released the album “ZOO!!”.

Their distinctive “gloom-pop” blends elements of Japanese and Western music with video game music, making it highly addictive.

Keep an ear out for Mossa’s one-of-a-kind vocals and the singing of bassist Fujita as well.

They’re perfect for anyone looking for something new, so be sure to check them out!

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[2026] Next Big Breaks to Watch: Japanese Artists You Should Check Out Early (51–60)

Suzunari Memoriesthe molars’

the奥歯’s – Suzunari Memories – Music Video

Suzunari Memories the 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.

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New DimensionShin-Tōkyō

New Tokyo “New Dimension” MV

New DimensionShin-Tōkyō

A rising guitar-less band formed in 2021.

Comprised of current university students, they won the Grand Prix in an Eggs contest the year they formed.

Riding a wave of momentum, they made their live debut at Zepp Tokyo and released their debut single.

Their unique approach to songwriting—first discussing a theme, then crafting songs around it—is also compelling.

They’ve been steadily gaining attention, having been featured on TV Asahi’s “Kanjam Kanzen Nen SHOW” and taking the top spot on a J-WAVE program.

A must-listen for anyone who wants to feel the current of new music.

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stoppage timeNoda Megumi

Aimi Noda – Lost Time (Official Lyric Video)

stoppage timeNoda Megumi

Singer-songwriter Emi Noda has been active in music since her student days, consistently achieving excellent results in various auditions.

In addition to her own work as a vocalist, she energetically contributes songs to other artists as well.

Her greatest appeal is undoubtedly her outstanding vocal ability that grabs your attention from the first listen.

More and more listeners are being captivated by her mature, atmospheric voice.

You can fully appreciate her charm not only in her original songs but also in the cover videos uploaded to her YouTube channel, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out.

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SSMEPK shampoo

【MV】SSME/PK shampoo

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.

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STARSw.o.d.

w.o.d. – STARS [LIVE VIDEO] Opening Theme of the TV Anime 'BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Separation'

STARSw.o.d.

Riding a huge wave of momentum, the band w.o.d.

scored a hit with “STARS,” the opening theme for the popular anime BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Separation.

The name w.o.d.

stands for “webr ing odd duckling,” meaning “a duck that can’t swim.” They reportedly picked cool-sounding words from a dictionary and forcibly rearranged them to create it.

The trio from Kobe consists of vocalist-guitarist Takuya Saito, bassist Mackay, and drummer Motoyoshi Nakajima.

If you love unadulterated, high-precision grunge rock, they’re a must-check!

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Taki no namida pin ku

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Delusional scriptwriting activityasmi

Delusional Scriptwriting Activity – asmi (Official Music Video)

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.

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