6 Artist Discoveries We're Still Discussing in 2026

      The post-Coachella blues have officially arrived, but that’s alright as we continue to showcase emerging artists with our annual Ones to Watch in Music portfolio, a comprehensive list of up-and-coming musicians worth paying attention to. Not to brag, but we’ve curated a remarkable selection of artists who are establishing new standards of coolness and authenticity in 2026. If you’re like us, your playlists might need some new additions. With talents like guitarist and singer-songwriter Towa Bird radiating queer confidence in her latest tracks "Dirty Habit" and "Gentleman," and Naomi Scott returning to her musical roots with her brilliantly ‘80s-inspired alt-pop album F.I.G, we’re definitely being spoiled. But there’s more! Up-and-coming pop sensation Eli is crafting an eclectic nostalgic fantasy with Stage Girl, Latin artist Tokischa is candidly addressing her past to present her most raw and empowering album thus far, songstress Chelsea Jordan is releasing delightful soul tunes, and Nell Mescal has returned with a new single that hits us with the feels—again. If you aren’t familiar yet, let this be your introduction to the artists we can't stop raving about.

      (Image credit: Mikayla LoBasso; Charlie Denis) WHO: Towa Bird WHAT: A rock 'n' roll powerhouse with immense swagger. Towa Bird has been perfecting her guitar skills since she was 12, starting her journey by performing in dive bars and street festivals in her hometown of Hong Kong. After years of producing and co-writing for other musicians, Bird embarked on her solo career, signing with a major label in 2024 and releasing her debut album American Hero, a pop-punk collection that garnered critical acclaim and prestigious supporting slots for Billie Eilish and Reneé Rapp. With her follow-up, Gentleman, set to release on May 15, the queer singer-songwriter/guitarist is striking a new chord with a set of songs that highlight her growing confidence and challenge gender norms in a patriarchal society. Oh, and did we mention she’s been recently named the new face of Miu Miu, the ultimate symbol of trendsetters? WEAR: Gentlemanly suiting. Towa Bird - Gentleman (Official Music Video) - YouTube

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      For those hearing about you for the first time, how would you characterize your music, and which song should they begin with? I’d describe my music as new yet comfortingly nostalgic, and they should start with "Gentleman," "Dirty Habit," and "Drain Me!" Your sophomore album will be out this May. What insights have you gained about yourself as an artist and personally through the making of this project? Much of what you can hear in this album, as well as the visuals, is a reflection of learning to trust my instincts and growing more confident in my identity and voice. I believe fans from my first album will perceive the distinction. The lyrics on this record are much more personal, and I desired this album to genuinely represent how I project myself outwardly. The gender-fluid single "Gentleman" served as an early release from this new project. How does it set the tone for what’s coming next? It merely scratches the surface. I chose that song as the lead single because it feels as though you are stepping into a new realm. Oh, something fresh is occurring here. Is there a song on the album that feels particularly personal or a triumph in terms of its creation? "Dog." It’s my favorite on the record. I cherish it because I wouldn’t have allowed myself to write it a couple of years ago. The lyrical content is significant, but the song structure deviates from typical formats entirely, requiring substantial confidence to break those conventions. You’ve collaborated with notable artists such as Olivia Rodrigo and Reneé Rapp. Who would you love to work with next? My favorite aspect of being a musician is collaborating with others and learning from my peers. Artists like Karen O, The 1975, Julian Casablancas, Cameron Winter, Blood Orange, Clairo, Kim Gordon, Damon Albarn, Fontaines D.C., and Paramore come to mind. I could go on forever. How did growing up and performing in Hong Kong and London shape your musical sensibilities? I observed that, regardless of the language spoken, music transcends all barriers. Your first love is the guitar. What early song or influence inspired you to pick it up at 12? At 12, I watched the Jimi Hendrix documentary on YouTube, and his passion for music sparked something in me, prompting me to think, "I want to do that." What would you say is a signature of Towa Bird's fashion? "Tie with tie accessories."

      (Image credit: Eloise Parry) WHO: Naomi Scott WHAT: A British artist who has transitioned from acting to music. After a continuous string of acting successes—including roles in Smile 2 and Disney's