Music artist to watch in 2026: The next big stars across every genre

If I know anything, it is that I get awfully antsy when I have to listen to the same old music all the time. I knew the first time that I seen Meghan Thee Stallion before she was signed on YouTube that she was going to be huge. I also knew that the same was true for a few other artist-but I am not here to talk about who is already famous- I am here to talk about a few artist (whether they are my taste of music or not) that I have seen trending that you may not know about.

2026 is shaping up to be the genre-blending year with pop, hip-hop, EDM, and global influences colliding which makes my soul soar. So come along and let me know if you knew of these artist or if you have a few other’s to watch.

1. Hemlock Springs

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Isimeme Udu
• Coming out of:
• Birthday: November 16, 1998 (Scorpio)
• Fun Fact: Holds a freaking MASTER’S degree from Dartmouth College
• Genre: Alt Pop, Indie Pop, 1980’s Synth-Pop-meets-2000’s unhinged beats
• Often Compared To: Charli XCX, Caroline Polachek,  Chappell Roan

Why They’re One to Watch:

This rising pop artist is quickly gaining Gen Z attention with viral music videos, bold visuals, and a genre-blending sound that feels both nostalgic and totally new. Her tracks deliver infectious beats that stick in your head like a song you forgot you loved, while her playful, highly shareable TikTok presence keeps fans hooked beyond the music. With a strong cross-cultural appeal, standout personal branding, and a new album releasing this year, she’s building serious buzz online. If “wwwww” is any hint of what’s coming next, this emerging star is about to drop some of the most talked-about pop music of the year.

2. Young Miko

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: María Victoria Ramírez de Arellano Cardona
• Coming Out Of: Anasco, Puerto Rico
• Birthday: November 8th, 1997 (Scorpio)
• Fun Facts: She was on Puerto Rican’s women’s national football team from 13-18 years old, she is a certified tattoo artist, opened for Karol G and Billie Eilish, and has been on albums with Bad Bunny, and she loves anime.
• Genre: Latin Trap, Reggaeton, Latin Urban
• Often Compared To:

Why They’re One’s to Watch

If Snow the Product and Billie Eilish had a musical baby-Young Miko is the outcome. She was born and raised in Puerto Rico and is very proud of her heritage and the fact that after she gave her parents that piece of paper that cost thousands (a B.A.) she told them that she was going to after her dreams and honestly the world is better for it. She represents so many of us from those who love sports, to those who love the LGBTQIA+ community, to those who honestly are just here for those bangers! She is the slow burn of this list because she will drop a track and then it will go viral a year later much like her song “WASSUP” did.

3. Nayda Vii

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Sandra Rose
• Coming Out Of: St. Ann, Jamaica
• Birthday: October 3, 1998 (Libra)
• Fun Fact: Her mom is Jamaican and her father Canadian. Her mom was a teen when she had her and her dad got locked up when she was 4 years old (relatable girl-relatable)
• Genre: Dancehall, Pop, R&B, Afro-Caribbean Pop
• Often Compared To: Early Rihanna, Qvarismatik, Posh Morris, Tyla

Why They’re One’s to Watch:

Everyone can get down to a good Caribbean dance beat. Something that makes you want to shake your hips suductivly but also our American ears can’t quite just understand all the words. I blame “Who Let the Dog’s Out’ by the Baha Men. Do any of us actually know all the lyrics? I think not. However-since the dogs were let loose and Shaggy gaslit the fuck out of us with “It Wasn’t Me”– our souls have a special spot for artist who bring that kind of heat and swag. Nayda Vii does just that. She has been grinding and making a name for herself since she was 9 years-old. Most kids today are more focused on watching people review video games rather than trying to make something of themselves. She has a global sound with dance-friendly hits along with strong YouTube presence. Plus-she is absolutely stunning!

4. Montana 700

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Anthony McDowell
• Coming Out Of: Dallas, Texas
• Birthday: November 15, 1999 (Scorpio)
• Fun Facts: He got his name for the 700 block neighborhood he grew up in, he can make entire rap songs without a single cuss-word but still sound hard AF, he is all about giving back to the community and uniting gangs through food drives and willing to compromise street-cred (if responded to in a equally respectful manner), His first EP was put out in 2022.
• Genre: Rap, Southern-Rap, Trap Rap
• Often Compared to: Boosie, Zillionaire Doe, YFN Lucci

Why They’re One’s to Watch

As a longtime rap fan who values real lyricism over mumble rap, this Southern artist checks every box. His music dives into the struggles, the wins, the friendships gained and lost, and the late-night energy that turns real life into unforgettable bars. Every track rides on hard-hitting beats and deep bass drops, delivering the kind of hip-hop bangers that feel just as good in headphones as they do in the car.

Hailing from the South — with strong Texas rap influence — he carries on the region’s legacy of artists who balance grit with authenticity. His presence is intense and confident, the kind that commands respect without empty threats. Instead of glorifying violence, his focus is clear: hustle smart, stay legit, and build real success.

5. Ekelle

A Little About this Artist:

• Government Name: Ekela Akeba
• Coming out of: Toronto, Canada
• Birthday: January 5th (year unknown? weird) (Capricorn-self identified lol)
• Fun Facts: “Come Back” is a reflection of how she processed the murder of George Floyd and she made the song “Games” with Ervin Mitchell whom she has known for over ten years and the song is about online dating-and quite funny if I say so myself.
• Genre: Hood Pop, R & B, Pop, Hip Hop Blend, Dancehall Hip-Hop
• Often Compared to: Rochelle Jordan, Shygirl, Amaarae Bryson Tiller, Sexxy Redd

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Ekelle is more than just an music artist and a song writer-she is an activist and champions for those that she works with. She takes a genre and creates a new one with the vibes that she just happens to be feeling that day. She writes about what she knows-so does she talk about sex? yes. Racism? yes. Money? Yes. Girl drama? you freaking know it. She coined the genre of Hood Pop herself, I promise-I did not make that shit up. She has the skill for strong identity and storytelling that is helping her organic playlist growth. She champions for the girlies around her and let’s you know that no man is worth losing yourself for and no matter what color you are, what size you are, or even how you may feel about yourself in this exact moment- you are that b*tch! Get that confidence back up on that dance floor!

6. The Last Dinner Party

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Names: Abigail Morris (vocals), Lizzie Mayland (vocals/guitar), Emily Roberts (lead guitar, mandolin, flute), Georgia Davies (bass), and Aurora Nishevci (keyboards, vocals)
• Coming Out Of: London, Australia, & Hebden Bridge.
• Birthdays: Abigail- October 19th, 1999 (Libra), Lizzie- January 31st, 1999 (Aquarius), Emily- February 5th, 1998 (Aquarius), Georgia- May 6th, 1999 (Taurus), and Aurora- August 26th, 1996 (Virgo)
• Fun Facts: They met while attending gigs in the same places, Emily started playing the guitar at the age of 6, Aurora grew up in Kosovar Albanian family but felt shame she was never taught how to speak Albanian which influenced the song “Gjuha”
• Genre: Pop/Rock, Indie, Alternative Indie, Baroque Pop
• Often Compared To: David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, ABBA, Queen, Lana Del Rey, Chappel Roan

Why They’re One’s to Watch

If you’re ready for a band of women to completely wow you with stunning vocals, rich instrumentation, and creative live showmanship, this is the group to freaking listen too. Their sound leans into dreamy, low-key indie vibes that feel cinematic enough to land on a show like Euphoria, blending atmosphere with emotional depth.

What really sets them apart is how they channel their musical training and artistic education into reshaping how their music is written and performed. They aren’t afraid to challenge expectations (hell yeah!), and while their sound may not be for everyone, their thought-provoking lyrics and bold artistic direction are what truly pull listeners in. By combining talent, perspective, and intention, they’re creating something fresh, diverse, and genuinely original in today’s music scene.

7. Sienna Spiro

A Little About this Artist:

• Government Name: Sienna Spiro
• Coming Out Of: London, England
• Birthday: September 25th, 2005 (Libra…and she screams it)
• Fun Facts: She started making music when she was 10 yrs old when her dad introduced her to Etta James and Marvin Gaye. She left school at 16 to pursue her music career full time. She went viral on Tiktok after doing a cover of Donald Glover’s “Redbone”.
• Genre: Pop, Jazz, Soul (reminds me of if Billie Eilish and Jessie Murph had a vocal baby)
• Often Compared To: Oliva Dean, Billie Eilish, Adele, Lana Del Rey

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Sometimes we need just some soulful music in our lives and when you have listened to Ella Mae to Amy Whitehouse to Ella Fitgerald for most of your life it is refreshing to know that after all the artist that have inspired one another-the tradition lives on. Are we going to be shaking our ass to her EP album “SINK NOW, SWIM LATER“…no most likely not. Am I going to stop you from trying? Absolutely not. But this is what you put on after a breakup, or reading in your living room setting a whole relaxation-I-am-finding-myself vibe! She is so young and I know that if you have not heard of her by now you will within the next year because she is already touring with her EP albulm and getting noticed by amazing artist like SZA.

8. Feid

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Salomón Villada Hoyos
• Coming Out Of: Medellin, Colombia
• Birthday: August 19th, 1992 (Leo)
• Fun Facts: He helped J Balvin write “Ginza”, “Gucci los panos” by Karol G, “Brujeria” by Christina Aguilera, and “Perdoname” by Nicky Jam and Darell, He played the clarinet as a kid, He dated Karol G for three years, His favorite food is ‘bandeja paisa.
• Genre: Reggaeton, Urbano Latino
• Often Compared To: Rauw Alejandro, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Mora

Why They’re One’s To Watch:

Other than having killer music, I also love how Feid also has a unique taste in graphic design (often done by his sister) and his favorite signature color is green-samsies. Why do I suggest this artist/producer/song-writer? Because he is able to create songs and collaborate with artist that are not exactly “his” sound but able to contribute his talents to make bangers. He never fails to bring that Latino heat that is expected from the genre of Reggaeton. He is one to watch because he is already recognized in his short time to make major contributions to the music industry all while repping his culture wonderfully. Oh and did I mention? He already callaborated with the previously mentioned #2 Young Miko on the song “Classy 101”

9. BXKS

A Little About this Artist

• Government Name: Can’t find but her stage name is pronounced like “Becks)
• Coming Out Of: Luton, England
• Birthday: September 17th (year unknown… but makes her a Virgo)
• Fun Facts: Her hero is Mariah Carey because she is brought together R&B with hard-hitting rappers. She is also 5’2, hello fellow shorty-we are small but fierce.
• Genre: British Rap, Electronic, Dancehall, Caribbean Grime Rap
• Often Compared To: Knucks, Len, Lady Leshurr, Capo Lee

Why They’re Ones to Watch

There are a lot of fresh new artist coming out of the UK right now. What I like about BXKS is that she switches up the way she spits the lyrics in a way that is both going with the beat and also makes you hitch your shoulder in a certain way that questions of how she was able to switch it up similar in the way that Kendrick Lamar does. If you need something that is going to hype you up at the gym for that cardio and make you feel like a total badass-then she is the one to play. I feel like I have Need for Speed racing through my brain and Lady Leshurr is driving the car. I am here for it and I can see her being used to pop-off on TikTok here soon.

10. Waylon Wyatt

A Little About this Artist

• Government Name: Waylon Wyatt Potter
• Coming Out Of: Hackett, Arkansas
• Birthday: October 16th, 2006 (Libra)
• Fun Facts: He wrote his first song “How to be a Man” at the age of 6. He was signed after he preformed “Everything Under the Sun” became viral on TikTok.
• Genre: Modern Country, Folk, Americana
• Often Compared To: Tyler Childers, Sam Barber, Zach Bryan

Why They’re Ones to Watch

Okay, this beautiful young soul isn’t even old enough to drink the whisky his voice sounds like it is dripping with. I am not a fan of country music in general-however, a few years back I made a New Year’s resolution to be able to listen to the genre and not want to rip my ears off of my head. Ever since then I have been on pursuit to find artist that don’t make me cringe and he isn’t one that I would personally have on my playlist but I wouldn’t leave a bar if he was on the stereo- and I know that does not sound like much but I promise that it is. Waylon sings the way I think feel like how country music should provoke a feeling inside of you. He may have been raised “comfortable” with his dad working construction but I honestly feel like he empathizes with the struggle of blue-collar American’s and for that- I tip my metaphorical cowgirl hat.

11. BunnaB

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Ereunna McCoy
• Coming Out Of: Atlanta, Georgia
• Birthday: June 9th, 2003 (Gemini)
• Fun Facts: She has ten siblings and she is the second oldest, She was raised in Thomasville Heights, a neighborhood of Atlanta, in the Section 8 apartment homes formerly known as Four Seasons, Lizzo called her “inspirational”, Her hit “Bunna Summa” became a breakout anthem in 2025, and she uses daily Instagram Live sessions to connect with fans and share new music.
• Genre: Rap, Hip-Hop, Southern hip-hop/trap
• Often Compared To: Nikki Minaj, Glorilla, Soulja Boy, and Rich Kidz

Why They’re One’s to Watch

If you love a girlie-pop rapper with boss energy and a soft side, this Atlanta rising star is about to be your new obsession. She brings fearless confidence to every track (finger snaps) — the kind of artist who sounds ready to kick ass and then celebrate with ice cream after. Despite a tough road to get here, she radiates resilience, positivity, and that signature smile that fans can’t help rooting for.

Coming up alongside other emerging Atlanta hip-hop artists, she’s building serious buzz with high-energy performances — including the chaotic-in-the-best-way Ice Cream Tour that’s taking her sound nationwide. Her music is pure confidence fueled sass, perfect for hyping yourself up, hitting the gym, or getting ready for a night out. Blending Southern rap nostalgia with fresh beats, playful personality, and club-ready vibes, she’s quickly becoming one of the most exciting new female voices in hip-hop.

12. Sleep Theory

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Names: Cullen Moore (vocalist), Daniel Pruitt (guitarist/vocalist), Paolo Vergara (bass), and Ben Pruitt (drummer).
• Coming Out Of: Memphis, Tennessee
• Birthdays: “Not Published”…interesting….
• Fun Facts: Cullen served in the U.S. Army, Paolo is from the Philippines, Obviously- Ben and Daniel are brothers and Daniel became a dad in 2022, Their band name came from a Google search of ‘scientific words’.
• Genre: Nu Metal, Hard Rock, Alternative Rock
• Often Compared To: I Prevail, Bad Omens, Until I Wake From Ashes to New

Why They’re One’s To Watch

One of my friends actually sent me this band when they popped off on TikTok. I knew immediately that my son would love their music and I liked that the band was made of culturally diverse dudes right from the beginning. After listening to them I could tell why they are so popular. This band does a great job at blending heavy rock with R&B infused hooks. Granted-this band has mixed reviews for this exact reason because their songs are so catchy-does that mean that the industry has their hooks in them and creates sounds just for the $$$? Doubtful after researching the band. I just know that their rapidly growing fan base will cause this band to skyrocket into top artist to watch in 2026.

13. RaiNao

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Naomi Ramirez Rivera
• Coming Out Of: Santurce, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Birthday: May 26th, 1994 (Gemini)
• Fun Facts: She had major stage fright, anxiety, and panic attacks to the point of hospitalization when she was younger until she did back up for Rafa Pabon to gain confidence, She was featured on Bad Bunny’s song “Perfumito Nuevo”, she went to college to become a surgeon but got horrible grades so she switched to theater arts and audiovisual production,
• Genre: Reggaeton, Alternative Pop
• Often Compared To: Chuwi, Villano Antillano, Paopao, Tainy

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Listening to her work and the way she works with other artist is absolutely fabulous to watch. She is blending reggaeton, jazz, and electronic sounds with lyrics that belong in a poetry battle. Whether you are a friend or a foe- you have to agree that the fusion of styles and performances that you can not tear your eyes away from really shows that all beauty could not be kept back stage. My favorite song of her of course is “roadhead” which is preformed with Tainy shows that she is not afraid to push the much need boundaries all while supporting the LGBQIA+ community in both the America and Latin American cultures.

14. Sofia Camara

A Little About this Artist

• Government Name: Sofia Camara
• Coming Out Of: Terceira Island, Portugal & Raised in Toronto, Canada
• Birthday: May 21st, 2002 (Gemini)
• Fun Facts: She has opened for Dean Lewis and Bastille but her cover of Taylor Swift gained her over 10 million views.
• Genre: Pop, Soul, Indie Pop, Urban Contemporary, Dance Pop
• Often Compared To: Olivia Rodrigo, Dylan Conrique, Olivia Lunny, Sadie Jean

Why They’re Ones to Watch

Each generation needs that voice that seems to speak to our chest when it is breaking and also to let us know that it is all going to be okay. Like Oliva Rodrigo, Sofia does not ask for permission to ghost you mid-conversation or ask for thank-you’s when she surprises you with a girls get away. You get what you get and you don’t throw a fit. She has speaks as if she is older than her mere 24 years of age. She hormones personified in the most GAP way and I kinda want to be besties with her. I know we could burn a house down and then go get some ice-cream afterwards not even acknowledging the damage we have done.

15. Dirty Honey

A Little About these Artist

• Government Names: Marc LaBelle (lead singer), John Notto (guitarist) Justin Smolian (bassist), Jaydon Bean (drummer)
• Coming Out Of: Los Angeles, California (they come from all over the US)
• Birthdays: Marc- November 3, 1994 (Scorpio), John- June 26th, (unknown year)(Cancer), Justin- December 30th (unknown year)(Capricorn), & Jaydon- October 29th (unknown year) (Scorpio)
• Fun Facts: John left another band to join Dirty Honey in 2017 with Justin. Justin is left handed but can play a guitar made for right-handed normies but gave it up for the bass and holds a B.A. in Music. The goal is to make rock for all ages and they are the first unsigned bank to land number one on rock songs Billboard 100.
• Genre: Modern Rock, Classic Rock Revival, Sunset Strip Vibes, Blues Rock Roots
• Often Compared To: Aerosmith, Blackberry Smoke, Rival Sons, Greta Van Fleet, The Black Keys, Highly Suspect

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Like most the fashion in the stores today-they give tribute to the fashion trends that have come before them. Dirty Honey, well I imagine my Aunt Shawna rocking out to this band when she was my age and as soon as she reads this post-she will probably rock out to them now. There is something utterly classic about this band. You listen to them and think that maybe you are listening to one of your parents vinyl records but you aren’t. If you like classic uninhibited rock-this band is for you. Is this a hair metal band? No lol this is not a hair metal band. But if you can find five millennials that all appreciate rock and look like they are straight off of a 70’s Rollingstone cover-you know your souls are meant to meet and make beautiful rock baby records.

16. Cece Natalie

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Mia Ferrentino
• Coming Out Of: “Small-town”, Connecticut
• Birthday: April 4th, 2005 (Aries)
• Fun Facts: She got her start on SoundCloud under two names, Her mom had her IVF so she says that she was raised in a petri dish and says that is how she became a psychic, she is an only child, she wants to be classicly famous and not just “TikTok” famous, she had a rough childhood often sleeping in her car to air-mattresses at friends houses, as a kid she was diagnosed with a sensory processing disorder.
• Genre: 2010’s Pop, Pop, Electro-Pop, Contemporary R&B, Trap Soul, Bedroom Pop,
• Often Compared To: Christina Milian, Snow Strippers, Isabella Lovestory, Britney Spears, Early Lana Del Rey, Cassie

Why They’re One’s to Watch

This artist is a breakout pop/electropop singer-songwriter-badass self-produces her music and doesn’t even want to be signed by a label because she believes that they would try to control the music that she wants to make. She knows that she is young and her sound may change a thousand times by the time she is fifty and doesn’t want anyone to stop her from making the music she wants to make and what she wants to hear. She has a large online fanbase and already has toured with two indie groups. But the overall reason I know that she is going to make it big other than her personality and honesty during interviews? It is the Y2K-inspired sounds that I know will reach everyone from generation Alpha to Millennials.

17. Avery Anna

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Avery Anna Rhoton
• Coming Out Of: Flagstaff, Arizona
• Birthday: March 3rd, 2004 (Pisces)
• Fun Facts: Even at her young age, she has released two albums-one in 2024 and the other in 2025, she taught herself how to play guitar, Blowing up over her cover of the late rocker Ozzy Osborn’s “No More Tears”, she has fan’s sending her “let go letters” where they write to her about what they need to let go of and provides a space for fans to vocalize their fears and have an outlet.
• Genre: Country, Modern Country, Country/Pop, Acoustic Pop/Country
• Often Compared To: Alana Springsteen, Megan Moroney, Ashley Cooke, Gabby Barrett

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Okay, she is one country singer that can cover Ozzy…let’s just start with that. She has such a unique voice that isn’t too twangy that country music is known for. She blends her love of country with rock and acoustic pop sounds. The first song that I listened of hers was “narcissist” and it was her lyrics that got me. The songs that she writes about hard hitting topics like break-ups and domestic violence is way beyond her years. Granted-some of you may already know her-let me know if you do and which song of hers I need to listen too-but since I tend not to listen to country artist-she will be one I will listen too if I need to get into the Nashville state of mind.

18. Die Spitz

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Names: Ava Schrobilgen (guitarist/vocals), Elanor Livingston (guitarist/vocals), Kate Halter (bass), Chloe de St. Aubin (drummer/vocals)
• Coming Out Of: Austin, Texas
• Birthdays: All 22 years old but no specific dates can be found.
• Fun Facts: Their bands name is German for “the pointed”, Here are three sings and four song writer’s who often swap instruments during performances and this diversity adds to the diversity of each track on their albums so they can’t be pinned to just one genre, All the girls have been friends since they were kids, and they tour and attend college.
• Genre: Heavy Metal, Pop Punk, Grunge
• Often Compared To: Black Sabbath, Pixies, Lambrini Girls, Upchuck

Why They’re One’s to Watch

This band is a genre-defying blend of punk rock, grunge, metal, and alternative energy that you want to chug down like a Gatorade after a rager the night before. Their lyrics are relatable and the way that they use their dynamic instrumental playing to make their words come alive is something of the greats. Their 2025 album “Something to Consume” is already ranked one of the best albums of the year. But really I think that it is their live performances that really make them shine. You can see that they have known each other so long that their chemistry is beyond compare for most bands who replace artist every few years. These girls are ride to die and their music shows how well they are able to make that sweet, sweet, music together.

19. Victor Ray

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Victor Ray
• Coming Out Of: Born in Kampala, Uganda and moved to Newcastle, England.
• Birthday: August 12th, 2001 (Leo)
• Fun Facts: He loves Haribo gummies (samsies), Spider-Man is his favorite super hero, he loves to play video games like Cyberpunk, His favorite Disney movie is Moana, and Christmas is his favorite time of the year.
• Genre: Contemporary, R&B, Soul
• Often Compared To: GIVEON, Lewis Capaldi, Myles Smith,

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Beyond performing in front of crowds since he was just six years old — with a supportive family cheering him on — this rising male artist stands out for one undeniable reason: his stunning, powerhouse vocals. He’s been steadily releasing music and grinding for recognition since 2023, but 2026 is finally shaping up to be his breakthrough year (good for him *slow clap*). Whether it’s his growing traction on TikTok, his natural on-camera charm and that handsome smile, or simply the fact that listeners are finally catching up to his talent, the spotlight is finding him at last. With a voice that demands attention and a story built on persistence, he’s quickly becoming one of the most promising new male singers to watch.

20. Wyatt Flores

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Wyatt Flores
• Coming Out Of: Stillwater, Oklahoma
• Birthday: June 29th, 2001 (Cancer)
• Fun Facts: He was raised with music around him including his dad being a drummer in a band, he started in 2021 but had to take a hiatus because he needed to take care of himself mentally because he said he had imposter syndrome (relatable), he has no interest in commercial success but loves the outlet that music gives him, he started playing the guitar to hang out with the adults around the campfire rather than be with the kids, he gives most of his credit to his parents who “taught him how to give a shit-to actually care about others,” he lost hearing onetime after a show because the crowd screamed so loud for the band.
• Genre: Red Dirt, Americana, Folk Rock, Contemporary Country
• Often Compared To: Drayton Farley, Logan Halstead, Nolan Taylor, John R Miller, Dylan Gossett

Why They’re Ones to Watch:

When I first heard about this artist my first thought was-wow, I do not know of many American’s with Mexican heritage from the mid-west but sounds like Chris Stapleton and Garth Brooks has a love child. Like most he gives praise to his parents raising to respect those around him including the indigenous people and what it means to respect the land that we benefit from. He really does seem like a straight up cool ass dude that just wants to make music because he knows how it can heal the soul. However, the number one thing that I have mad respect for this artist was, as a man-he had no problem taking a step back to take care of his mental health. There is an epidemic of men out there that were raised to shove it all down, don’t seek mental health help, and just to “get over it.” -But he did what real men do-admit that he needed to mentally get around all the fame and attention he was getting and figuring his shit out. Good job to his family for raising him right. We need more artist like him-in my humble opinion.

21. Jae Stephens

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Jordan Stephens (born 18 July 1997
• Coming Out Of: Born in Dallas, Texas but was raised in Pasadena, California
• Birthday: July 18th, 1997 (Cancer)
• Fun Facts: Gained popularity on Tumblr posting about her music, Her track “WET” was recognized by Elle Magazine as one of the Best Songs of April 2024, she has written songs for Jennifer Lopez and Normani, she self–produced her first album because she wanted to get her music out there, she went to a preforming arts school in California.
• Genre: Futuristic R&B pop, Pop, Alternative Pop
• Often Compared To: FLO, Tinashe, Natanya, CHXRRY, Rochelle Jordan

Why They’re One’s to Watch:

When I hear that an artist sings “futuristic R&B pop“, my brain thinks more Kylie Minogue “Can’t Get You Out Of My Head”. However, I do realize that is the millennial in me but at the time-that is what futuristic R&B pop sounded like. Jae essentially has bottled that up in her own way, threw in some Lizzo, Beyoncé, and Aaliyah-Boom! That is who she sounds like to me. Do I love all of her songs? No. However, I do love her live music better than some of her self-produced tracks…which tracks. Producing music is hard AF and she has been doing it on her own since she was a teenager. However, being able to preform live and not sound synthesized or not sound like the album is a task within itself. Therefore-I believe that she deserves to be on this list. She is self made and has written songs for the greats, she just needs to find the right producer to continue her musical growth and be the star she already knows she is.

22. CIL

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Cecilia Webber
• Coming Out Of: Fort Collins, Colorado
• Birthday: June 4th, 2002 (Gemini)
• Fun Facts: She moved L.A when she was 18 years old, she has opened for Stevie Nicks, she has seven siblings, taught herself how to play the piano, her first job was working at a taco shop making delicious tacos (yummy),
• Genre: Pop, Soul, Alternative Pop/R&B
• Often Compared To: Mikayla Geier, TeaMarrr, Dua Lipa, Sailorr

Why They’re One’s to Watch

I will admit I totally judged a book buy its cover on this one. I thought she kina looked like Noah Cyrus and was for sure she was going to try to sound like her too- but after listening to her she has range from all the sassy pop-princesses we love to Jessie Reyez. Her lyrics are real and soulful in a way that I believe will speak to a lot of different artist. She admits in her songs that sometimes she is addicted to toxic relationships but has no problem knowing that she is a badass and can replace you if you do her dirty. You should totally watch her TikTok @itscilove because she does acoustic all the time and has no problem getting on there playing her piano crying and writing songs or showing backstage at her open mics. It is all quite epic.

23. Lovejoy

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Names: William Patrick Spencer Gold (rhythm guitarist/songwriter/lead singer), Joe Goldsmith (rhythm guitarist/songwriter), Mark Boardman (drummer/songwriter), and Ash Kabosu (bassit/songwriter)
• Coming Out Of: Briton, England
• Birthdays: William-September 14th, 1996 (Virgo), Joe February 5, 1998 (Aquarius), Mark-  October 28, 1999 (Scorpio), and Ash- March 26th, 1996 (Aries)
• Fun Facts: William has a YouTube channel called Wilbur Soot and Soothouse with his friends and also live streams on Twitch with over 4.6 million followers before he was in the band, Joe was a tree surgeon before he was in the band, Mark, a self-described “metalhead at heart” and went to school to specifically learn the drums, Ash was an animator before the band and learned to play the Spanish guitar from his father.
• Genre: Indie Rock, British Rock, Pop-Punk,
• Often Compared To: Artic Monkeys, Two Door Cinema Club, The Strokes

Why They’re One’s to Watch

This band gives British vibes, meet’s 80’s rock band, meets AJR. They are just all really fun dudes that like to play music and have fun. Oh-and they are talented. They all knew sometime in their early life that they wanted to be in the band but knew that it was going to be extremely difficult to do. Each had their own thing going on until they all just happened to be in the right place at the right time and thus the rest is making history. They are just now starting to gain more popularity across the sea’s but I can see them coming across that big ole’ pond and kicking us in the face with the most polite mosh pit you have ever seen.

24. ROA

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Gilberto Yatzel Figueroa Ortiz
• Coming Out Of: Naranjito, Puerto Rico
• Birthday: May 28th, 1996 (Gemini)
• Fun Facts: He started making music around 2020 in the underground urban world, he went viral with his hit “ETA-RMX” and has started gaining more traction, His song 11:11 has been said to be the most private and deeply personal song that he has put out since 2023, In 2025 he sold out shows across Spain
• Genre: Latin urban, Reggaeton, Romantic Trap, R&B, and Soul
• Often Compared To: Omar Quartz, Dei V, Ovi

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Good Lord this man is handsome 😀 Sorry-had to say it. His swag is off the chart and I feel like I can fall in love by his simple lower lip bite that he does-but then he opens his mouth and that raspy sexy voice comes out along with the guitar lead music in the back just makes me swoon (very similar feelings that I had about Maluma). This man sings more than just reggaetón- he sings intense R&B soul music in another language carrying on the idea of Puerto Rican Heat. His songs are very personal and he lays it all out on the line as if he fell in love with you at first site and wants you to know his soul. He is definitely one to watch-there are not many other artist out there with his talent and compelling abilities.

25. Zinadelphia

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Hannah McKenney
• Coming Out Of: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Birthday: January 30th-year unknown but she is in her 20’s (Aquarius)
• Fun Facts: She used to sing “Nobody’s Perfect” by Hannah Montana in the shower, she had a 73′ Volkswagen Westfalia but had to sell it for money, all she wants to do is “evoke big feelings” with her music, She attended Temple University where she originally majored in photography and then journalism, Mirrorball was released as a school project.
• Genre: Jazz, Acoustic-Pop, Neo-Soul, Funk, Postmodern Jukebox
• Often Compared To: Amy Whitehouse, Jasmine Sullivan, Hether, Ruby Waters

Why They’re One’s to Watch

This girl straight out of Philly invokes the spirit of Motown meets Amy Whitehouse in her vocals and beats. She is a is a soulful singer-songwriter whose genre-blending music channels neo-soul, jazz, funk, and pop with a retro-modern twist. She first turned heads with her beautiful face and 60’s/70’s esthetic. But don’t put her in the past because she has already opened for artists like Teddy Swims and Tori Kelly. Inspired by classic soul and disco but entirely her own — marks her as a fresh and compelling artist to watch in 2026.

26. KWN

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Khyra Leah Wilson
• Coming Out Of: Walthamstow, East London, England
• Birthday: April 5, 2000 (Aries)
• Fun Facts: KWN doesn’t want to be boxed into one genre — her music pulls from R&B, trap, hip-hop, and dark electronic, She originally performed as k1 but changed her name to kwn, Early tracks were made in a bedroom studio session and self-produced, Praised by Billboard as an R&B standout and featured on NME’s list of essential emerging artists
• Genre: R&B, Trap, Hip-Hop Soul
• Often Compared To: Sasha Keable, Kehlani, Destin Conrad, Sailorr

Why They’re One’s to Watch

The way that they are able to throw their voice and somehow your panties goes missing is amazing to me. I know that They are the next ones to watch because they have collaborated with amazing artist and have all the swagger to make you wonder and take a double look. I mean-it can’t hurt also dating Kehlani after they collaborated together. I feel seduced every time I hear their music and I have a feeling that hands will be rubbing together and lips will be bit after being in KWN’s presence.

27. Ty Myers

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Ty Wenston Myers
• Coming Out Of: Austin, Texas
• Birthday: July 12, 2007 (Cancer)
• Fun Facts: He was raised on a cattle farm, he started playing the guitar at the age of seven, He was inspired to start singing after he injured himself during a football game and decided to follow in his dad’s footsteps.
• Genre: Country, Contemporary Country, Folk Country
• Often Compared To: Lonestar, Luke Combs, Hudson Westbrook,

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Apparently this young lad is one of country music’s most exciting young stars(according to the sources I was able to find on him,) He is blending classic country storytelling with bluesy guitar and soulful vocals. He first blew up in 2023 with his song “Tie That Binds” went viral on TikTok. Ty has since sold out headline tours, earned major industry nods like Billboard’s Country Rookie of the Month, and is poised to gain even greater recognition as he opens for Luke Combs in 2026.

28. LaBlackie

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Not publicly known….suspish but she has the street cred for it.
• Coming Out Of: Barcelona, Spain
• Birthday: Also not known….wow.
• Fun Facts: She was born in Barcelona and her African heritage, she credits herself with being from “the streets”, she says she will never hide her attitude and will make sure that every girl out there has a role-model on being strong in every generation.
• Genre: Trap, Spanish Drill, Yankee-Influenced Rap, Dancehall Rhythms, High-Energy Street Rap, Alternative Hip-Hop
• Often Compared To: La Zowi, Metrika, Albany

Why They’re One’s to Watch

Do not let her looks deceive you. I know you want to stereotype this artist but I guarantee you-she does not sound like you think she will. LaBlackie is an urban artist rapidly gaining attention for her bold blend sounds that defy traditional genre boundaries. Her dynamic flow — ranging from aggressive freestyles to catchy, rhythmic street tracks — reflects both European and American influences, making her a standout in the modern hip-hop scene.

29. Audrey Hobert

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Audrey Hobert
• Coming Out Of: New York, New York
• Birthday: February 19, 1999 (Pisces)
• Fun Facts: She was a a staff writer on the Nickelodeon sitcom The Really Loud House, Her best friend since elementary school is named Gracie Abrams (also an artist) and helped write her album, Her dad, Bill Hobert, is a writer and producer with credits on long-running shows like Scrubs and The Middle, She performed “Sue Me” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in October 2025, and her brother is also a famous singer Malcom Todd.
• Genre: Pop, Singer-Songwriter, Modern Pop, Indie-Pop
• Often Compared To: Gracie Abrams, Oliva Rodrigo, Maisie Peters, Kimya Dawson

Why They’re One’s to Watch

She is a quirky one for sure who is just now accepting how amazing she is at singing and song-writing and is done letting people hold her back. I do not know if it just runs in the family for her to be as funny as she is but she has no problem being different. She lets her lyrics be funny but also have a second meaning to them to you have to turn back and say-wait…what did she mean by that? Her stage presence is amazing from what I have been able to see and she is blowing up on TikTok with her quirky antics and soulful sound.

30. The Dollheads

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Names: Angela, Samantha, and Austin Avery
• Coming Out Of: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Birthdays: Angela Avery–Unknown but is 18yrs old (lead vocals & guitar), Samantha (Sam)–Unknown but based on interviews around 16 (bass & backing vocals), and Austin– unknown but is estimated to be 14 (drums)
• Fun Facts: Yes, they are siblings, They have done two UK tours, made news for their punk rock sound in several Asian magazines, They are of Vietnamize decent and they have an uncle in the Vietnamize that is a drummer, as a celebrity drummer- Austin likes Taylor Hawkins and Travis Barker, their mom plays guitar and taught Angela how to play,
• Genre: Pop-Punk,
• Often Compared To: Green Day, Blink-182, Ramones, Rancid

Why They’re One’s to Watch

YAASSS!!! Lets bring back the punk rock teenage angst with this group. The Dollheads have been making waves with their punchy, melodic punk sound that makes the inner Avril Lavine meets Green Day very very happy. Formed officially in 2021 after years of playing together since out of the womb, they channel angry hormones and the injustice of the world into songs that capture teenage energy and emotional depth. With their unique sibling chemistry and authentic storytelling, The Dollheads are ones that I can wait to show all the youngins how to do somethign other than videogames and put all those raging hormones into rage inducing music.

BONUS:

31. Luz Gaggi

A Little About This Artist:

• Government Name: Luz Gaggi
• Coming Out Of: La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Birthday: August 2002 (specific date unknown so maybe-Leo or Virgo-seems like a Virgo to me)
• Fun Facts: She was in Argentina’s The Voice competition, she experimented with bachata and bolero influences within her music
• Genre: Pop, Urban R&B, Flamenco, Hip-Hop, and Rioplatense
• Often Compared To:

Why They’re Ones to Watch

If Adele spoke only Spanish I feel like this is what she would sound like. This girl is soulful, beautiful, and has not gotten the cred she deserves until TikTok decided to really show her off. Her powerful voice and genre-blending sound have made her one of the breakout Latin artists to watch in 2026.She released her debut album Altar in 2023 — a richly emotional mix of sounds that reveal her depth as a songwriter and performer. I can not wait to see how she gets into the Reggaetón with her beautiful voice.

Bonus BONUS: Under-The-Radar Artist Gaining Buzz New and Old

Royal Blood

J’Moris

Adela

Mulla Joans

Kiki Rockwell

Final Thoughs

I know that I have you a lot to listen too and not all of it is going to be your taste in music, not all of them were my taste in music but i want everyone to keep their minds open and sample a little of all of them. And listen to the “Compared To” section because you may like an artist adjacent to the artist suggested. Which artist do you think will dominate 2026? Save this list, share it with a music lover, and come back to see who blew up. Happy Listening.