After a thrilling 2025 filled with groundbreaking music, the stage is set for the next wave of talent. Enter 2026: a year brimming with artists poised to break through and redefine the soundtrack of tomorrow. From soul-soaked melodies to electrifying indie beats, this is the ultimate guide for music lovers hungry for the next big thing.
Peyton Shay
Los Angeles–based alt-pop riser Peyton Shay creates music based on lived experience that she performs with striking confidence. Shaped by early health challenges that forced her to confront identity at a young age, Peyton Shay has turned moments of vulnerability into a defining creative edge, one that shows up in both her sound and her unmistakable visual presence. Her writing is incisive and raw, pairing emotional honesty with witty lyrics and a fearless willingness to sit in discomfort. That clarity has already set her apart, positioning her alongside boundary-pushing visionaries while maintaining a voice that feels entirely her own. Her latest single, the December banger “super cool”, is a super relatable song all about those moments when one is so unsure of themselves and their plans they become delusional.
Peyton Shay is set to enter her most ambitious chapter yet. Her fully self-written EP, due in the first half of 2026, marks a creative leap forward, combining colliding guitars and quirky charm with a razor-edged sense of self-assurance. Recorded with Adam Castilla and mastered by Grammy winner Nathan Dantzler, the project arrives alongside her first international headline tour in Japan and a major stateside EP launch and West Coast run. Already unsigned yet boasting Billboard chart placements and a high-profile Apple TV+ sync, Peyton Shay is building a career on intention rather than hype, making 2026 the year her presence shifts from promising to undeniable.
Danae Greenfield
Danae Greenfield’s trajectory reflects both rare musical depth and expansive cultural reach. From her earliest connection to the keyboard to graduating Summa Cum Laude from Berklee College of Music on a full scholarship, Greenfield’s foundation is rooted in discipline, curiosity, and creative rigor. Her early immersion in jazz, sharing stages with icons like Chick Corea and Ambrose Akinmusire, shaped a pianist fluent in tradition while unafraid of evolution. Since relocating to New York, she has emerged as a versatile force across genres, performing on some of the world’s most visible stages while collaborating with an extraordinary range of artists spanning pop, indie, jazz, and soul. This ability to move seamlessly between intimate creative settings and massive global platforms speaks to an artist whose voice resonates widely without losing its authenticity. Her latest EP Shelter is a six song jazz-infused reverie.
What makes 2026 a defining year for Greenfield is the convergence of artistic vision and momentum. Alongside a world tour with Josh Groban and recent high-profile runs with Clairo and John Carroll Kirby, she is preparing to release her debut jazz fusion album, an ambitious project that blends jazz language with R&B and hip-hop sensibilities. Grounded in her belief that music functions as a sanctuary and a unifying human force, Greenfield’s work balances technical mastery with emotional clarity and purpose. As both a sought-after collaborator and a composer shaping her own sonic world, she is poised to step fully into the spotlight as a creative leader. In 2026, Danae Greenfield is not just participating in the musical landscape, she is actively redefining it.
A!MS
British-Cypriot artist A!MS isn’t just releasing music, he’s building a movement. With his debut album Peak Season, A!MS introduces “Global Street,” a genre-defining sound that reimagines hip hop for a borderless, creator-driven generation. Drawing from London’s radio grit, Mediterranean soul, and his Cypriot, Lebanese, and Italian heritage, he positions himself as both cultural translator and innovator. Collaborations with global heavyweights like Julian Marley, ArrDee, Ramz, and Grammy-winning duo Cool & Dre underline his credibility, while the album’s outsider-first philosophy speaks directly to influencers, streamers, and tastemakers shaping culture beyond traditional industry gatekeepers. Few artists manage to fuse concept, culture, and sound so seamlessly, and even fewer do it while launching an entirely new genre.
A!MS’ momentum is only accelerating into 2026. With the Peak Season Deluxe, a high-profile video for the project’s most-streamed track “Wait What,” and the continued expansion of his Wave Fest series, he’s cementing his role as both artist and cultural architect. Crafting the album in Cyprus, a self-described “music industry desert”, gave him the freedom to create without compromise. As Wave Fest grows into a destination event and Global Street continues to resonate across scenes and continents, A!MS stands poised to become one of the defining voices of the next era, proving that the next global star really can come from anywhere.
Emma Claye
Maryland born and bred Emma Claye is a multi-talented artist, singer-songwriter and actress whose music is deeply heartfelt, touching and impassioned. With a knack for creating expressive lyrics and a stunning honeyed voice, Emma Claye has captivating musical listeners across the globe. This is ever so clear with her 2025 single “No Food No Man No Water”, a slow-burning mesmerizing acoustic pop ballad all about an intense connection with the divine. As an actress, her screen credits on Harlem and Blue Bloods, combined with national commercial campaigns and her experience touring North America in Hamilton, speak to a performer who is already trusted at the highest professional levels. Yet what distinguishes Emma is her ability to move fluidly between mediums, using acting, music, and storytelling as interconnected tools rather than separate pursuits.
Looking ahead to 2026, Emma’s artistic trajectory points toward a meaningful expansion of her creative voice. As a songwriter who has garnered critical attention and collaborative momentum within New York’s music scene, she is poised to translate her growing catalog of singles into a cohesive larger body of work, with plans for a full-length project and visually driven releases. With Broadway aspirations on the horizon and a clear vision for her evolution as both a performer and creator, Emma Claye is entering a chapter defined not just by visibility, but by lasting artistic impact.
Sam Paige
Sam Paige occupies a rare creative space where pop, country, and indie converge without compromise. Her songwriting is rooted in poetic honesty, shaped by years of translating lived experience into lyrics that are both vulnerable and resolute. In an industry crowded with imitation, Sam Paige stands out for her refusal to dilute her identity, choosing instead to write from a place of “harsh self-truth” that resonates deeply with listeners seeking authenticity. Her latest single “SKIN” is a highly relatable pop country gem all about the struggle to find self love.
As Sam Paige prepares to roll out new music produced by Warner Music powerhouse Hallie, 2026 marks a pivotal moment in her evolution from promising newcomer to defining voice. Her background, training with renowned vocal coach Coreen Sheehan, performing on NBC and at Carnegie Hall, and signing with Heart Songs Music Group, has given her both technical command and artistic confidence. With her upcoming album, Sam Paige is not just releasing songs; she is charting a purposeful journey that reflects growth, healing, and self-ownership. Grounded in the belief that music can heal and connect, Sam Paige is poised to leave a lasting imprint in the year ahead.
Sciarra
Sciarra is an artist whose work exists at the thrilling intersection of alt-pop, electronic music, and cinematic soundscapes, making her one of the most exciting voices to watch in 2026. With roots in musical theater and a decade of experience composing for visual media, she has developed a signature style that blends soaring pop hooks with atmospheric tension, thunderous hits, and emotionally charged production. Her music is a seamless fusion of performance-driven storytelling and experimental sonic textures, reflecting a creative depth that sets her apart from the mainstream while still maintaining broad appeal. Having honed her craft through years of touring and studio experimentation, Sciarra’s sound feels both epic and intimate, a combination that promises to captivate listeners in the year ahead. This is apparent in her latest single “New World”, a daring musical oasis filled with striking synthes, pitch-black beats and Sciarra’s ethereal vocals.
After facing a devastating personal setback when her house and studio burned down in 2023, Sciarra is entering 2026 with a renewed sense of purpose and creative energy. She is rebuilding her studio from the ground up, preparing to release music consistently and finally bring long-delayed projects to life. She is planning a major push into live performance, including an ambitious European tour. This period of rebirth signals a transformative year for Sciarra, making her not only an artist to watch but one poised to redefine her genre and leave a lasting mark on the music scene.
Sevi
Sevi, born Sevilla Merritt, is a Los Angeles-based left-of-center pop riser. The multi-instrumentalist writes and produces her own music fusing pop, indie electronica and rock for a compelling listen. Her latest single “Pulls Me Down” features sweeping synths, trip-hop infused beats and dark-hued vocals for a cinematic and fearless listen. The track showcases her versatility and authenticity, as she represents a new generation of artists who are deeply connected to their craft and audience.
Looking ahead, Sevi’s trajectory is nothing short of exciting. She plans to release a new track every 5-6 weeks in 2026 while performing live shows to connect with fans directly. Her collaborations with top-tier industry professionals, including vocal producer Will Everett, mixer/producer Steve Dresser, songwriting coach Tomsy, and drummer Kiel Feher, who has worked with Meghan Trainor, Maroon 5, and Selena Gomez, highlight her commitment to professional growth and sonic excellence. Recently signing with management firm HBM, Sevi has strategically positioned herself to make a strong mark in the music industry. With seven tracks already available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms, Sevi is not just creating music; she’s building a vibrant and dynamic artistic presence that demands attention.
Chelsea Reed
Chelsea Reed has traversed a remarkable musical journey, evolving from her piano-led debut to a bold, atmospheric new sound. After relocating countries, touring with her indie-pop band The Tryouts, and navigating life’s personal milestones, Chelsea has stepped into a cinematic and fearless musical chapter with her new single “Laura.” The track explores the intensity of an affair with her signature emotional clarity, marking a significant artistic shift while retaining the storyed songwriting that has defined her work from the start. Born in Sydney and raised in Newcastle, Chelsea’s international experiences, from recording in Ottawa to touring Australia and Canada, have shaped a perspective that resonates deeply in her music, making each song feel both intimate and expansive.
With her forthcoming EP set for mid-2026, Chelsea is entering her most compelling chapter yet. She pairs shimmering dream-pop textures with raw storytelling, demonstrating an ability to expand beyond her roots while maintaining a mesmerizing voice. Collaborations with acclaimed producers and musicians have enriched her sonic palette, positioning Chelsea as an artist ready to captivate a global audience. As she pushes into new emotional and musical territory, Chelsea Reed is poised to become one of the defining voices of 2026, an artist whose evolving sound and authentic perspective make her impossible to ignore.
Dylan Farrell
Dylan Farrell is a Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose soulful blend of blues, country, and Americana has quickly positioned him as one of the city’s most exciting emerging voices. Known for his magnetic live performances, Farrell has built his career through candid storytelling and a deep connection with audiences. His album Mississippi Circle features 10 electrifying tracks. The musical collection is filled with passionate blues guitar solos, upbeat keys and dynamic vocals for a multi-genre live-off-the-floor sound that was captured at Ardent Studios in Memphis.
He enters next year with his most intimate project yet: an acoustic record recorded during a solitary winter in his family cabin in rural New Brunswick, Canada. Stripped down to its raw essence, the record highlights Farrell’s emotional depth and authenticity, showcasing the reflective, heartfelt songwriting that has always distinguished him in today’s music scene. 2026 promises to be a breakout year for him with his new music and touring, connecting him with new audiences and strengthening his growing fanbase. Later in the year, Farrell will embark on his first full-length studio album, blending his blues roots with the storytelling spirit of Americana. With a clear vision, relentless drive, and a dedication to authenticity, Dylan Farrell is poised to solidify his place as a defining voice in contemporary music.
Dezelle
Dezelle seamlessly blends indie folk, pop, Americana, and ambient textures into music that is both raw and emotionally resonant. Known for her introspective lyrics and quietly powerful performances, Dezelle explores themes of grief, resilience, and the courage to remain open in a world that often demands armor. Her work has garnered recognition beyond the studio, with placements in popular shows like Love is Blind and Vanderpump Rules, as well as networks including Hallmark, Lifetime, Bravo, and UpTV. More than a musician, Dezelle is a poet and storyteller whose lyrics have been featured alongside celebrated songwriters such as Gregory Alan Isakov and Rachel Yamagata, cementing her reputation as a voice of honesty, connection, and the healing power of song. Her latest single “you make me feel so loved.” is a folk-laced pop dedication to that special one who knows how to love truly.
Dezelle is poised to expand her artistic impact in 2026 with a slate of exciting new releases and collaborations. She will debut new singles co-written and produced with longtime collaborator Tomas Altamirano, whose partnership has yielded numerous successful TV and film placements. Additional projects include a collaboration with producer Danny Reisch (known for work with Local Natives, Sharon Van Etten, and Dirty Projectors) and instrumentation by Misha Hercules, signaling a bold and innovative sonic evolution. With her fearless creativity and growing fanbase, Dezelle is an artist whose trajectory in 2026 promises to be both compelling and unforgettable.
Jenna Torres
Jenna Torres is an artist to watch in 2026, emerging as a powerhouse voice in country, folk, and Americana with her latest album, Firebird. A career defined by resilience, Jenna’s journey began in the shadows of tragedy near Ground Zero, where she found solace in songwriting as a newly single mom. Since then, she’s achieved milestones that showcase her versatility and talent, including a publishing deal with Warner Music Group, writing hits like “Proud” for Martha Wash, and co-writing For King & Country’s chart-topping single “Busted Heart.” With Firebird, Jenna channels personal experiences of heartbreak, hope, and renewal into a record that blends soul-stirring ballads with foot-stomping country, highlighting her unmatched ability to turn life’s struggles into powerful, relatable music.
Jenna has a fearless authenticity and she is dedicated to crafting music that uplifts and inspires. Her music is both deeply emotional and joyfully energetic, reflecting a renewed spirit and creative boldness that promises to resonate with fans old and new. Balancing vulnerability with strength, she proves that her voice is not just one of survival but of soaring, making her a defining artist for the year ahead and beyond. With more music set for 2026 and a slew of collaborations, live shows and more, Jenna Torres is an artist to watch.
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