6 Artist Discoveries That Will Keep Us Talking in 2026

      The post-Coachella sadness has officially settled in, but don’t worry; we’re keeping the artist features coming with our annual Ones to Watch in Music portfolio, showcasing a lineup of emerging musicians to keep an eye on. Not to brag, but we’ve compiled an exceptional list of artists who are setting new standards for coolness and authenticity in 2026. If you’re like us, your playlists need a refresh, and with talents like guitarist and singer-songwriter Towa Bird, who radiates queer confidence through her latest songs "Dirty Habit" and "Gentleman," and Naomi Scott returning to her musical roots with the brilliantly '80s-inspired alt-pop album F.I.G, we’re definitely in for a treat. But that’s not all! The rising pop star Eli is busy crafting an eclectic nostalgic experience with Stage Girl, while the Latin artist Tokischa is candidly exploring her past to create her most heartfelt and powerful album to date. Songstress Chelsea Jordan is delivering delightful soul melodies, and Nell Mescal is back with a new single that stirs our emotions—again. Not familiar with these names yet? Consider this your introduction to the artists we can't stop discussing.

      (Image credit: Mikayla LoBasso; Charlie Denis) WHO: Towa Bird WHAT: A rock ‘n’ roll powerhouse exuding swagger. Towa Bird has been perfecting her guitar skills since the age of 12, getting her start as a teenager performing at dive bars and street festivals in her hometown of Hong Kong. After years of producing and co-writing for others, Bird embarked on her solo journey, signing with a major label in 2024 and debuting with American Hero, a pop-punk album that garnered critical acclaim and notable opening slots for Billie Eilish and Reneé Rapp. With her new release, Gentleman, arriving on May 15, the queer singer/songwriter/guitarist is striking a new chord with a collection of songs that showcase a more assured artist striving to challenge gender norms in a patriarchal world. Oh, and she’s recently been announced as the new face of Miu Miu, the ultimate trendsetter. WEAR: Gentlemanly attire.

      Towa Bird - Gentleman (Official Music Video) - YouTube

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      For those hearing you for the first time, how would you describe your music, and which song should they start with? I would characterize my music as fresh yet comfortingly nostalgic, and they should begin with "Gentleman," "Dirty Habit," and "Drain Me!" Your sophomore album drops this May. What have you learned about yourself as an artist and on a personal level while creating this project? Much of what you hear in this album and see in the visuals reflects my journey of learning to trust my instincts and becoming more confident in myself and my voice. I believe that fans who have been with me since the first album will notice the difference. The lyrics on this album are much more personal. I wanted it to really represent how I express myself outwardly. "Gentleman," the gender-bending single, was an early release from this new project. How does it set the tone for what’s next? It only hints at what’s to come. I chose that song as the lead single because it feels like an entry into a new realm. Oh, something exciting is happening here. Is there a song on the album that feels especially personal or like a victory in its creation? "Dog." It's my favorite track because I know I wouldn't have allowed myself to write it a couple of years ago. The lyrical content and the song's structure both deviate from conventional song formats, and it took a lot of confidence to break that norm. You’ve collaborated with some great artists, like Olivia Rodrigo and Reneé Rapp. Who’s on your wishlist for future collaborations? I truly enjoy collaborating and learning from others. I'd love to work with Karen O, The 1975, Julian Casablancas, Cameron Winter, Blood Orange, Clairo, Kim Gordon, Damon Albarn, Fontaines D.C., Paramore. I could go on forever. Growing up and performing in Hong Kong and London, how did these experiences shape your musical sensibilities? I observed how music transcends language barriers regardless of a person's mother tongue. Your first love was the guitar. What song or influence inspired you to pick it up at age 12? At 12, I watched a Jimi Hendrix documentary someone uploaded to YouTube. His passion for his craft resonated with me, sparking a desire to pursue music. How would you describe a Towa Bird style signature? "Ties with tie accessories."

      (Image credit: Eloise Parry) WHO: Naomi Scott WHAT: A British singer who transitioned from acting to music. After enjoying success in films like Smile 2 and Disney's live-action Aladdin, Naomi Scott has returned to her music roots on her own terms. The artist poured