2026 is shaping up to be a year where playlists collide, genres bend, and stages shake with unexpected energy. Consider this your unofficial map to the sounds, beats, and hooks that are about to dominate your headphones, your speakers, and maybe even your dreams next year.
Naomi Jane
This year, Naomi Jane has continued to refine her blend of genres, releasing singles that showcase her lyrical focus and melodic sensibility. Tracks like “IDWK (I Don’t Wanna Know)” highlight her ability to capture moments of decision and personal transition, balancing nostalgia with forward motion. Each release has strengthened her presence in the music scene.
In 2026, Naomi will release a series of singles leading up to her album. Highlights include the upcoming “Pumpkin Eater,” “Clementines,” and “Farren Rd.” She will also release “Measure Forever,” a modern country song co-written with Adam Zelkind.
Tash Blake
Tash Blake is a force in modern pop, commanding stages in NYC, Los Angeles, and Paris with performances that blend raw energy, precision, and spectacle. Her third EP, arriving in 2026, pushes her sound into daring new electronic territory while amplifying the powerhouse vocals and kinetic intensity her fans have come to expect. The project unfolds within her high-fashion visual universe, The Pop Dungeon, where choreography, bold imagery, and theatrical detail transform each track into an immersive experience. In this latest work, Blake turns pop into a multidimensional art form, inviting listeners into the chaotic, glamorous, and intensely personal world she continues to build.
The Zappe Cats
In 2025, Miami-based The Zappe Cats released the EP “MISU MISU,” following their 2024 debut album, “Smells Like Caged Kitty.” The trio has become a mainstay in South Florida’s independent scene, performing at key venues and earning attention for their take on alternative rock, punk energy, and melodic songwriting. Their music this year explored surreal sounds, crooked grooves, and inventive song structures.
For 2026, the band plans to expand both creatively and geographically. They are developing new material with unusual rhythms and darker atmospheres while preparing to tour beyond Florida for the first time. Festival opportunities and East Coast shows are also in the works as they aim to reach new audiences.
Ryal
Duo Ryal is focused on crafting danceable, emotionally engaging electronic tracks. Their sound draws from ’80s synth-pop, modern electro-pop, and alt-electronic influences, producing songs that are immersive and moving. Each release has reinforced their reputation thanks to their sleek production.
In 2026, Ryal will release five new singles alongside two Bunker Studio live-performance videos. These releases mark a step forward in their artistic growth, emphasizing movement, energy, and inventive pop arrangements.
Marxoxo
Bay Area pop artist Marxoxo continued to develop her persona as a high-energy, visually driven pop performer. Performing at local music festivals, she teased new material while expanding her presence in the Bay Area scene. Her work blends nostalgic influences like Britney Spears with anime magic girls like Sailor Moon.
In 2026, she will release her highly anticipated album “IDOLL” along with a music video for the track “Like This.” A remix album featuring works from Svuvn, Hectic, Boy Sim, and Ghozt is in the works.
LIANZI
This year, LIANZI continued building her reputation in art-pop by combining music, visual art, and fashion into a cohesive creative universe. Taking from her background in traditional Chinese music and multidisciplinary design, she explored melancholic and cinematic soundscapes, establishing a distinctive aesthetic.
In 2026, LIANZI will release the EP “I Want What They Have,” delving into themes of longing and nostalgia. The project emphasizes her ability to merge sound and visual storytelling, something you don’t get to see very often.
Taylor-Rae
Taylor-Rae spent much time on her Americana and roots-rock foundation, reflecting on personal experiences and life on the road. In 2026, Rae will begin work on a full-length album following her recent EP while planning select live performances. Her upcoming projects will continue to explore human experiences with a balance of introspection and energy on stage.
Daya Dorado
Daya Dorado has developed her Tex-Mex country sound by mixing traditional Texan country with Mexican rhythms. She released her debut EP, “Never Dreamed,” establishing herself as a voice for Latina women in country music and gaining recognition through multiple grants and competitions.
In 2026, Daya will release her first full studio album, featuring original songs and covers that have influenced her musical journey. A summer and fall tour across the U.S. and Mexico is planned to promote the album and connect with new audiences.
Jay Putty
Jay Putty released the single “If I Never Met You,” following his EP “Mountains and Valleys” and the single “Big Big Dreams.” His music focuses on translating personal experiences into universally resonant songs, earning him national media appearances and much-earned recognition.
In 2026, Putty is planning a tour aimed at building community around his music, connecting with fans in person while continuing to release songs that explore love, loss, and resilience.
Labit
Labit is a storyteller and musician who moves effortlessly between pop, rock, and R&B. His songs draw from personal experiences and cultural memories, creating music that feels intimate yet universal. Beyond his solo work, he’s a sought-after collaborator, contributing his voice, guitar, and songwriting to projects that have reached listeners worldwide.
In 2026, Labit will hit the road supporting Galdive, release new collaborative singles and EPs, and potentially debut tracks from his third studio album, making this year a pivotal moment as he continues to expand his sound and connect with audiences. International festival appearances across Southeast Asia are also under consideration.
Two Dark Birds
Two Dark Birds released their fifth album in 2025. Recorded live near Woodstock, NY, the album blends folk-rock, pop, and experimental elements. It received praise for its inventive songwriting and immersive musical landscapes. Needless to say, they’re one of the most interesting bands in the music scene right now.
In 2026, they will continue going big. The band will continue the release with “Dreamers of the Golden Dream Vol. 1” in February, followed by Vol. 2 later in the year. They plan to tour in support of the albums, bringing their style to new audiences.
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