50 MUSIC ARTIST TO WATCH IN 2026

1. BANWO

Banwo is an Afro-Fusion artist blending pop-driven vocals, Afrobeat rhythms, and hip-hop lyricism. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria and raised in Texas, his sound bridges African roots with American energy. With seven years of releases and multiple projects under his belt, Banwo creates empowering, feel-good music rooted in faith, confidence, and purpose.

2. Lyrix

Lyrix is an artist whose music is born from personal struggles, resilience, and a deep desire for healing. His latest project is inspired by a dark period in his life marked by betrayal, heartbreak, and the loss of a close friend. After returning to the U.S. to focus on his career and financial growth, Lyrix found clarity in a beat played for him by producer Mike Brown in Battery Park. The track became a channel for Lyrix to express his pain, yearning for peace of mind, and healing through a blend of rap styles.

3. Lyoung

Lyoung is an up-and-coming artist from Long Beach, California, who began his journey by launching his own record label at just 18 years old. Through that vision, he created his collective, Shonin Records, and went on to release several albums and singles that bring a fresh and distinct vibe to rap and hip-hop. Known for his independence and creative drive, Lyoung continues to push his sound forward. His most recent album dropped in June 2025, and with new music on the way, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for what’s coming next.

4. WISHGXD

Juqan Brown, known as WishGxd, was born July 7, 2003, in Toronto. Growing up in a diverse environment, he turned to music to cope with depression and isolation. Influenced by Travis Scott, XXXTentacion, Tupac, Azizi Gibson, and The Weeknd, he began writing in high school and uploading to SoundCloud in 2018, building a dedicated cult-like fanbase.

https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2Fwishgxd%3Futm_source%3Dig%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_content%3Dlink_in_bio%26fbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnfeH73ytXD63TjrZb27iGWydzkXDXHr3sutT5usQoDGBBULUhPlwhC5s0SHs_aem_4HGDTPxjuMj2Zf2hirb_og&e=AT0ZP6SrVbG0FCVnUn-iheyUJUIcQg02Mfa7jOat3bZndqO-JWXBvFmOrBfX_Kr8bCz8vEHoaR4zlq57tgxw3PGs0VLe0ofMLq5JmYsg8Sm7prPpa5oEiYoLBA

5. P.B

P.B. embarked on his musical journey at an early age of 6 years old playing drums. Embracing his Jamaican roots and drawn to the diverse sounds that surrounded his culture, P.B. seamlessly weaves elements of Dancehall and RnB into his sonic tapestry. He professionally started his music career at the age of 15 years old and has made strides in the music industry ever since. The breakthrough moment for P.B. came with the release of his debut single, Wine Pon Mi, which garnered widespread acclaim for its visionary soundscapes and explicit lyrics. With many acclaimed international features under his belt, P.B. remains an artist to watch, destined to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.

https://tr.ee/sWKWpAwhhY

6. Shock

Atlanta based rapper, Shock, is the next to blow. He started writing music at the age of twelve and have accomplished many things since then. From winning talent shows in school to winning shows live on stage, Shock has established a major fan base and have gotten recognition from some of the top people in the industry.
His fan base has grown from having only four hundred people to now twenty thousand people in little to no time. The music that Shock puts out is catching peoples’ attention in an outstanding way because of the versatility he has. Not only has his recent music reached about half a million streams so far, but it also qualifies him for a total of six plaques and counting.
Being a ninety’s baby with so much talent tells a lot about Shock’s character, and his impact on music is changing lives for the better. We cannot wait to see what is in store next for Shock. Just know, the best is yet to come.

https://www.atom.bio/shockdaartist

7. KirkoJake

Kirkojake is a Fayetteville, North Carolina–based artist whose music is rooted in survival, faith, and truth. Having written music his entire life, he didn’t fully step into his artistry until a turning point that changed everything—his final stint in rehab after nearly losing his life to withdrawal. In that moment, Kirkojake credits God with saving him and giving him a second chance.

8. Yung Slink

Yung Slink is an artist whose music is shaped by real life—family, pain, identity, and growth. Creating from a place of honesty, he turns personal experiences into sound that connects on a deeper level. Whether he’s writing from his wounds, repping his city, or building community through late-night Twitch streams, Yung Slink makes music with intention. This isn’t just about songs—it’s about giving something real back to the people who listen.

9. Lt Budd

Born September 2, 2002 Lt Budd is an upcoming SoundCloud underground artist based in the Lehigh Valley, Pa.
His journey started at very young age with the sole intent of being a self taught musician, fast forward to the present, Lt Budd (23) is the founder of a collective called “Faded Ink”, comprised of other local talent in the area. His main focus is currently pushing the barrier of underground music taking inspiration from artist such as Osamason, Che, xaviersobased and Nettspend just to name a few.
With a recent release “BUDDSZN”, an upcoming single “SON” and a soon to be announced EP believed to drop April 2026, Lt Budd is one of a few artist in the Lehigh Valley pioneering a new sound and era for the underground scene.

10. LT MONTY

LT Monty is more than an artist—she’s a living archive of resilience, discipline, and creative evolution. Raised in the Philadelphia/Montgomery County area and growing up alongside ten siblings, Monty learned early how to carve out her own voice in a world full of noise. That voice first took shape at just eight years old, when she began writing poetry—long before she ever stepped into a studio.

11. JGZ

JGZ is a rapper and songwriter born in Phoenix, Arizona, and raised in Tempe, Arizona, with Hispanic blood running through his veins. He has always had a love for music since his middle school days—from playing the saxophone, trumpet, and drums in church to making beats on his phone with GarageBand, and now writing and releasing his own music. He takes great inspiration from some of the greats in the game, with his favorite artists being J. Cole, Eminem, Lil Wayne, Juice WRLD, and many more.
JGZ makes music as a way of coping, but also to inspire and help anyone who may be going through rough patches in life or trying to make it in the industry. His most recent track, “Bounce,” is out now on all platforms.

12. xtaye

xtaye is a rage artist from Halifax, Nova Scotia, now based in Toronto, Ontario. Inspired after seeing Yeat perform live, he began making music three years ago using BandLab and an Xbox headset. After experimenting with different sounds, xtaye found his lane in rage and melodic rage. His latest and biggest project, Real Rage, is out now on all major streaming platforms, with SoundCloud coming soon.

13. REXBOYDINO

REXBOYDINO is a Chicago-based artist who began pursuing music at a young age, spending hours freestyling with friends and sharpening his sound. In 2020, he started taking music seriously, quickly transitioning from studio sessions to live performances and eventually mixing his own projects. His hands-on approach and early dedication reflect an artist committed to growth, craft, and creative control.

14. ka$haun 

ka$haun is a 22-year-old artist from Maryland who began making music in ninth grade after being surrounded by it his entire life. Taught by his father how to make beats, ka$haun developed both his production and artist skills, spending countless hours honing his craft throughout the pandemic. He released his first EP in January 2024, launching the Pocket Change series, followed by consistent singles. In 2025, he dropped his debut album Paper Trails, marking his most active year yet and the start of a daily content rollout focused on growth, learning, and creative evolution.

15. $$MAR

$$MAR is an underground alternative artist coming from the DMV. His music resonates with people who love Rock ,experimental underground music, rage, melodic/harmonic music and sometimes lyrical music that helps brings that energy out of everyone to either jump or feel the emotions coming from his music. His lyrics sometimes tells stories of how he coming up people treated him unfairly when he was younger, and how he also didn’t have a lot of money growing up as well, making it harder to fit in with a lot of people. Mostly fitting in with nerds,etc not the popular crowd.

16. AroundTheWay Té

AroundTheWay Té is a rising hip-hop artist from Olympia, Washington, known for his raw storytelling, West Coast–influenced cadence, and bass-heavy delivery.Té found his voice early—writing music as a way to process life around him and the people who shaped his come-up. His sound blends street honesty with smooth, controlled flow, pulling inspiration from West Coast legends while keeping the unique grit of the Pacific Northwest.
Outside the studio, Té is deeply connected to his community. Whether he’s supporting local creatives, linking with producers and artists from the region, or spending time with close friends and family, he stays grounded in the environment that raised him. His music reflects those ties—real experiences, real struggles, and real passion behind every lyric

17. Glokk8x

Glokk8x is a 19-year-old independent artist from Florida creating high-energy music for when you’re mad, turnt, or locked in. He’s been making music since the end of ninth grade, channeling influences like Playboi Carti, Speaker Knockerz, Young Thug, Osamason, and Iayze into a raw, aggressive, and melodic sound built to hit hard.

18. Go Jaylo

Go Jaylo is a Houston, Texas native from the city’s Nawf side, bringing raw swagger and unapologetic confidence to his sound. He wrote his first rap at 12 and recently began taking music seriously, delivering hard-hitting beats packed with heavy 808s, rock-influenced energy, and witty lyrics. As a co-founder of Get Off alongside GOG Huncho, Go Jaylo creates music for playas and playettes alike. With a one-of-one voice and style, he’s gearing up for a new collaborative album, Get Off Demon Baby, and an upcoming EP that continues to build his momentum.

19. Zaveey

Zaveey is a mother of three and a survivor whose life experiences shape every note she creates. As a domestic violence survivor and a parent to a child with level 3 autism, Zaveey turns pain into purpose, using music as both healing and testimony. Inspired by Duddaprime to share her voice, she pours real emotions and lived experiences into her work — creating music that speaks to hardship, resilience, and finding strength through life’s journey.

https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCBbGxFkpplrN4bQIwMoQV-w?si=rgSI8eKwcS-Tn1si

20. LilReaper

Tavius (Lilreaper) is a Greenville, South Carolina artist who began rapping in 2016 at the age of 18. After stepping away from music in 2018, he returned in 2020 with renewed focus and determination, choosing to take his craft seriously and build momentum.

21. KAGERAGEX

From The Depths of…the Midwest, KAGERAGEX intends to fly on the scene to cook up some hard music in the rap/hip-hop scene and beyond and even plans to expand in the form of a new label/collective. Be on the lookout for the KAGE REVOLUTION in 2026″

https://on.soundcloud.com/I1prbYswJoSxdcK7pk

22. GHØST!

Born & raised on the south side of Chicago, GHØST! burst onto the scene with The Graveyard EP Vol. 1 & 2, haunting playlists with hard hitting verses and rapid fire rhyme schemes with inspiration from other major cities and the Rock/R&B genres. With his birthday coming up on the 21st of January, there’s almost certain to be more outlandish freestyles and memorable lines. Stay Tuned for more GHØST! sightings.

23. Jack$ter V

Jack$ter V is a Los Angeles–born artist whose music explores the emotions of darkness, love, and joy. He began his music career in 2018 and has continued to progress steadily, gaining increased recognition since 2022. With over 100,000 total views across platforms, Jack$ter V has built a growing audience through consistent releases. In 2025, he dropped the music video “United,” earned over 30,000 streams on the collaborative track “Girl With The Tattoo,” and surpassed 1,000 SoundCloud plays with “SMOKE,” released in fall 2025.

24. NumbaNine

NumbaNine’s music journey is rooted in real experiences shaped between Indianapolis, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky. What started as a personal outlet became a mission—turning struggle, ambition, and self-reflection into dark, melodic records. Moving independently, he built his sound through consistency, late nights, and belief in his vision when momentum wasn’t guaranteed. Each release reflects growth, resilience, and an evolving mindset. Rather than chase trends, NumbaNine documents his progression in real time, using music as proof that pressure can be transformed into purpose.

25. NURD

From the soul of Los Angeles, California—specifically Leimert Park—emerges NURD, an R&B/Neo-Soul artist whose music is inseparable from place, purpose, and lived experience. Leimert Park isn’t just home; it’s the center of NURD’s universe. Known as the jazz capital of LA, the neighborhood’s rich cultural legacy, deep musical roots, and community energy shape everything she creates. That history lives in her sound—warm, intentional, and deeply human.

26. Compton Ant-Man

Born at Long Beach Memorial but raised by the pulse of Compton, California, Compton Ant-Man is an artist driven by purpose, place, and truth. His journey into music didn’t begin with trends—it began with a concern. At a time when originality and authenticity felt like they were fading from the LA and Compton rap scene, especially following the loss of Drakeo the Ruler, Ant-Man felt compelled to step forward. The moment demanded honesty, and he answered.

27. AAKMusic

AAKMusic is an artist shaped by memory, emotion, and instinct. Growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, music wasn’t just something playing in the background—it was embedded in everyday life. Some of his earliest and most impactful moments came from sitting in the car as a kid, listening to rap CDs his mom kept in a case. Those rides hit differently. Even then, he knew music wasn’t just a hobby—it was going to be everything.

28. Don Data

Don Data, the 30-year-old Canadian DJ and producer from Waterloo, has emerged as a dynamic force in the world of electronic music. Known for his signature sound that blends infectious beats and irresistible grooves, His versatility and innovative approach to production have allowed him to stand out in a crowded industry, captivating audiences with every performance. Whether performing live or crafting new productions, his ability to experiment with different styles has kept his sound fresh and exciting.

29. EL Principe

El Principe found his voice through music, using it as an outlet to express deep emotions and personal struggles. Inspired by the journey of Daddy Yankee, he saw reflections of his own life and was driven to share his story through sound. With early roots in drumming and violin, his foundation in music runs deep. For El Principe, music isn’t just art—it’s a lifeline, a way to connect, feel, and speak when words fall short.

https://embed.music.apple.com/us/song/the-return-of-the-prince/1818408951

30. Zaug

Zaug is a boundary-pushing artist blending hip-hop, rock, and electronic energy into raw, cinematic soundscapes. Known for his powerful delivery and emotionally charged lyrics, he’s carved a distinct lane with releases on NoCopyrightSounds and beyond, establishing himself as a fearless new voice in modern music.

31. Gabriella Jacob

Gabriella Jacobs, also known by her producer/DJ alias indigo onyxx, is a Minneapolis-based artist whose music journey began in childhood, inspired by her father—a local church singer who continued performing despite battling cancer. After his passing in 2012, Gabriella carried his legacy forward, performing at iconic Twin Cities venues and eventually landing her first major placement with Trap Nation and GoPro for her song “Found Me.” Since stepping into music production in 2018, she’s opened for major acts like Kevin Gates, Waka Flocka Flame, and KYLE, turning childhood dreams into reality. Now a passionate advocate for women in music production, Gabriella’s mission is to inspire the next generation through authenticity, resilience, and community.

32. J Bish

J Bish is a Canada based artist who grew up listening to old school rock/alternative music, which grew into his love for hiphop in early teen years. J Bish started to record music as a way to cope and vent about life situations in 2019. This grew into his love for music and the variety of music he loved throughout his life shows in his versatility of range and genres.

https://linktr.ee/jbish29

33. Sara Kajari

Sara Kajari is a Croatian singer/songwriter whose music blends pop, R&B, and hip-hop with a unique, personal touch. Music has been a constant in her life since childhood, from dance and piano to poetry and songwriting. At 17, she began releasing her own tracks, and in 2024, she dropped her first collaborative album Znakovi with Croatian producer Beni Ducent, fusing electronic and R&B sounds. Currently, Sara is working on her debut solo album, which will showcase her versatility as an artist. Her songs are written in both English and Croatian, though she’s focusing more on English, where her true passion lies. Drawing inspiration from artists like Jhené Aiko, Tyla, Rihanna, Khalid, and SZA, Sara’s music is fresh, dynamic, and full of heart. She’s also exploring Afrobeats in her sound, adding another layer to her evolving style. Her upcoming release, a fun pop/afro house track, is set to bring a summer vibe to listeners worldwide.

https://youtube.com/@sarakajari?si=7E0R1Do18rbomOxm

34. Martel Smooth

Martel is a multi-talented creative whose self-confidence and work ethic set him apart. From Michigan to Brooklyn, NY, and he’s immersed himself in music, modeling, acting, and fashion. Known for blending old-school principles with modern tools, Martel has consistently studied and honed his craft. His latest project, Point of No Return, was released on November 28th, while his shoe line, Destiny Steps Collection, earned him a Staff’s Pick Award. A true visionary with a relentless drive, Martel embodies the Mamba Mentality, having put in his 10,000 hours to shine when the world finally notices.

35. YR OCHO

YR OCHO is an artist driven by the desire to tell his own story through music. His journey into music began with a deep sense of happiness, motivation, and the belief that the right song can change someone’s life. After serving over four years in prison, his passion for storytelling intensified, and upon his release, he recorded his first song—hearing his own voice on a track like a radio hit was a moment that changed everything. While his music is influenced by artists like Lil Baby and Lil Durk, who share similar experiences, YR OCHO’s sound is uniquely his own. He draws inspiration from his past, often writing after reflecting on his life experiences, and though he used to smoke to get in the zone, moving to a new state has shifted that routine. With his powerful storytelling and distinctive style, YR OCHO is carving his own path in the music world.

https://on.soundcloud.com/4JQvYNGPa5qLhSRF6

36. Gee Johnson

Gee Johnson. 27. Originally from Miami, Fl. I’ve been singing since a kid and perfecting my craft throughout my school career. I’ve sang competitively for Dillard High school. Also studied music production at Queens Borough Community College in Queens, NY. I’ve been writing music since 2020 during COVID but Initially working on my album Feel Safe since 2020 as well. Fast forward 4 years later. God help me to release my first studio album September 30th, 2024 and history is still being written.

37. Samuel Thomas

I’m an artist, producer and head of @abnrecords252 from Wilson, NC.
Way back in 2016 I had a vision of bringing authenticity and quality back to music, ever sense then I’ve been growing talent wise and creatively. The music reflects who I am as a person and what I stand for. You’ll hear themes of god and religion, struggle with daily life, and raw unfiltered emotions. I hope to push the interesting sound I have to the world and touch people souls all in the same process.

https://li.sten.to/fillerepisodes

38. ZAYE PARK

ZAYE PARK is an independent R&B and hip-hop producer and recording artist from Mississauga, ON, currently based in Toronto. Identifying as a black, queer female with preferred pronouns she/her or they/them, ZAYE has a passion for creating music and a strong interest in artist development, management, and the entertainment industry. They are the founder of PLYGRND MUSIC, an independent production house, and are dedicated to writing songs for themselves and other artists while managing talent.

https://youtube.com/@zayepark?si=U38jDEI66D17qkke






39. Jewelle Bryce

Jewelle Bryce is an up and coming R&B artist from Columbus Ohio! Originally starting out her career in St. Louis at 14 years old as more of an indie artist she continued to write her own songs and grow her talent to become the artist she is today at 24. Her unique tone and passion for songwriting is easy to see but watch out for the honesty and raw emotion she writes about in her music which truly makes you feel like she’s writing music meant for you. Sincerity and honesty drive this young artist every day and it’s exciting to see where that will take her next.

Follow her @jewellebryce on all of your favorite platforms to see more.

40. Luh Q

Luh Q is an up-and-coming artist from Lake County, IL. Known for his unique sound and authentic lyrics, he’s making waves in the music scene. Check out his debut album, Almost There, available now on all platforms.

41. Dexter Kelly

From the sunlit streets of Pasadena, California, Dexter Kelly’s relationship with music began long before he ever stepped into a studio. Raised by parents who were true music lovers, his childhood was filled with sound—classic soul, hip-hop, reggae, and everything in between. That early exposure didn’t just shape his taste; it shaped his skill. Piano came first, followed by drums, guitar, and even the cello, making music less of a hobby and more of a lifelong language.

42. QueenLeft

Hailing from Rochester, New York, QueenLeft’s artistry is deeply rooted in family, faith, and fearless self-expression. Born into two musical lineages, she was given the rare gift of autonomy—encouraged by her parents to create freely and honor the talents passed down to her. Church became her first stage. Whether dancing or singing in the choir, music wasn’t just sound; it was spirit. Many of her fondest memories are tied to songs, and that emotional imprint continues to shape her work today.

43. KILLA D

Dekarian Ashley’s musical journey began in the heart of Northwest Louisiana, where the cities of Shreveport and Minden shaped the early chapters of his life. At just 12 years old, Dekarian discovered his passion for music—writing his own songs armed with nothing but a karaoke machine and a single microphone. Influenced by Louisiana legends like Lil Boosie, Webbie, and Lil Wayne, as well as West Coast icon Tupac Shakur and Texas greats UGK, Dekarian’s sound reflects a rich tapestry of Southern hip-hop culture.

44. ruexan

ruexan – artist from providence RI who’s sound is a polished underground sound. something like that you can fix wording and all that

45. NL KILO

Hailing from Waldorf, Maryland, NL KILO’s artistry is raw, melodic, and emotionally driven. His music isn’t built on trends or surface-level appeal; it’s built on lived experience, reflection, and pain transformed into purpose. Every record feels intentional, shaped by moments that left marks and lessons that demanded expression.

https://linktr.ee/NLKilo?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnCHVWFa25CTRmtuJt-hZ0cgiLi1V0OXvLzJHmkHGyMqOC_a7V7wP4RTVb0P0_aem_g6JrkotG9TUlmAdRikQqpQ

46. Dom of da District

Born in Montgomery County, Maryland, and raised between Laurel and Washington, D.C., Dom describes her background as “seasoned.” Growing up across multiple cities and cultures played a major role in shaping her versatility and resilience. That layered upbringing gave her the ability to adapt to any environment, a quality that translated effortlessly to the stage during the competition. Her roots are reflected not only in her sound, but in the way she carries herself — bold, confident, and unapologetically present.

47. RIZZI THE ROCKSTAR

Hailing from Washington, D.C., Rizzi entered the battle with a clear purpose: to show people what they’ve been missing. Her music reflects that confidence, blending R&B with alternative influences to create a sound that feels both nostalgic and forward-moving. It’s smooth, expressive, and unapologetically her — a style that doesn’t fit neatly into one box, but instead creates its own lane.

48. Quis

A Houston, Texas native with a passion for music and style. Original songwriter and vocalist. Quis is dedicated to the foundation of R&B and keeping this alive! His lyrical work ethic, genius, and aspirations are powerful and manifest into reality. Quis has a mission to keeping R&B alive with authentic vocals and lyrics. Raising the bar and setting the standard of music.

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/quis15/toxic-feat-e-keenan/

49. 44romance

Romeo (44romance) is a 22-year-old artist from Brampton, Ontario, blending genres like Hip-Hop, R&B, Indie, and Pop. Inspired by icons like Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Michael Jackson, and the Odd Future collective, Romeo has been creating music seriously since age 14—though music has always been part of his life. His sound is versatile, emotional, and constantly evolving.

https://linktr.ee/44romance

50. Buddybudski

Emerging from the small town of Chester, New York, Buddybudski is not just another name in hip-hop—he is a movement. At only 20 years old, the artist, creative director, and label owner is carving out a lane that blends nostalgia, lyricism, and unapologetic self-expression in an industry that has rarely made space for voices like his.

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