Spotify Introduces 'RADAR: Early Noise 2026' Featuring Rising Artists and Podcasters

Spotify Unveils 'RADAR: Early Noise 2026'

In a grand reveal, Spotify has announced its selection of ten promising domestic artists anticipated to make waves in 2026 under the initiative called 'RADAR: Early Noise 2026'. The global audio streaming giant, catering to over 713 million users, emphasizes its commitment to introducing these emerging talents to both domestic and international audiences through curated playlists, live events, and various collaborative projects.

Spotify Early Noise

The selected artists for this year, who will have the opportunity to showcase their talent, include:

- OSHIKIKEIGO
- OddRe:
- kurayamisaka
- ハク。
- Maverick Mom
- 名誉伝説
- LAUSBUB
- luv
- Litty
- Rol3ert

To celebrate this announcement, Spotify has launched the 'RADAR: Early Noise' playlist, featuring tracks from these artists starting January 8. Additionally, audiences will get a chance to experience performances firsthand at the 'Spotify Early Noise Night #18', set for March 19 at Spotify O-EAST in Shibuya, Tokyo. Artists OSHIKIKEIGO, OddRe:, ハク。, and 名誉伝説 will perform, alongside REJAY as an opening act, connecting fans directly to these rising stars.

Showcasing Tomorrow's Artists

The 'Early Noise' initiative marks its tenth year, originally launched in Japan in 2017 to spotlight the next generation of artists and assist them in expanding their listener base. In 2020, it evolved into a global program linked with RADAR, highlighting notable artists from various countries, which has led to significant breakthroughs for previous participants like あいみょん, King Gnu, and 藤井風.

Notably, last year’s selected artist, 乃紫, saw massive success with their song '1000日間', crossing over 22 million streams. Furthermore, they contributed a new track for the anime '正反対な君と僕', scheduled for broadcast as an opening theme on January 11, further highlighting their rising star power.

The 2026 lineup reflects emerging music trends influenced by the proliferation of streaming and social media, showcasing a diverse range of genres spanning bands, singer-songwriters, and hip-hop artists. Each selection breaks traditional molds, offering unique and compelling works set to resonate with a global audience.

Expanding Podcaster Horizons

In tandem with this announcement, Spotify has also rolled out 'RADAR: Podcasters 2026', featuring four innovative creators that are contributing to the next generation of podcast culture:

- オトコの子育てよももやまばなし (Momoyama Trading)
- トキトケトーク (ダウ90000 蓮見翔)
- ぽこピーのゆめうつつ (ぽんぽこピーナッツくん)
- 山田由梨の眠れないなら茶をのんで (山田由梨)

These creators will receive support through studio access, event facilitation, and collaborations, aimed at reaching both Spotify and external audiences. This mirrors Spotify’s ongoing efforts to nurture original programming and empower audio creators within its ecosystem.

A New Journey Begins

Spotify is also introducing the 'Fresh Finds Japan' playlist, a journey that marks the initial encounter with future talents. By promoting early-stage discoveries, this playlist aims to enhance artist recognition, facilitate viral hits, and assist in forming a global fanbase.

As part of the 'RADAR: Early Noise Night #18', attendees can look forward to the vibrant energy these emerging artists will bring. Early bird tickets will be available starting January 8, 2026.

Spotify's 'RADAR: Early Noise' and 'Fresh Finds Japan' epitomize the platform’s dedication to empowering and supporting the next wave of artists, thereby reshaping the future of the music landscape.