Another year, and more proof that Asia continues to shape some of the world’s most exciting new sounds. This year’s RADAR artists draw from deep local roots while moving across languages, genres, and cultures.
RADAR is our global program that spotlights emerging talent, helping them build their careers by reaching new listeners and connecting more deeply with fans.
These Asian artists reflect a rich diversity of sounds from across the region—from P-pop act VVINK, fitterkarma’s genre-bending sound, Thai rock band GOODMOOD, and eńau’s intimate lo-fi folk. In Japan, there’s five-piece next-generation future soul band luv. In Taiwan, Lu Yun is building a loyal fanbase in the Mandopop scene.
And that’s just scratching the surface of what the Asian music scene offers right now.
It’s also part of a broader trend we saw in 2025: Listeners around the world are leaning into artists in this region. Last year, almost half of the Top 20 most globally streamed RADAR artists came from Asia. And according to Spotify’s Loud & Clear report, the number of languages represented in the Global Top 50 more than doubled between 2020 and 2025. Fans choose what they love, not where it’s from.
“Asia is producing some of the most-streamed emerging talent we’ve seen in RADAR history, and the passion of local fans is a huge part of that story,” said Spotify’s Kossy Ng, Head of Music, Asia. “What excites me most about these RADAR artists is their confidence—these are artists who fully own their identity, language, and culture. That authenticity is what resonates, and they represent sounds that are genuinely diverse. I honestly can’t wait for the world to discover them.”
As part of the RADAR program, each artist receives editorial amplification and tailored marketing plans designed to help them connect with new listeners within and beyond their home markets.
“It’s one thing to have my music on Spotify,” says Pami from Thailand. “It’s another to be part of their global RADAR program, having them champion my music on global editorial playlists, and sharing my craft and stories on and off platform, all year round. As an artist, the goal has always been to make music that feels honest—and to find the fans who feel it, too, wherever they are.”
Reflecting on the program, Indonesia’s dia shared: “Being part of RADAR opens up an opportunity for my music to reach more listeners. Since I produce all of my own music from scratch, it’s a really personal process for me. I’m excited to see where these tracks can go and who they might connect with. For me, it’s not just about growing the numbers, it’s about finding people who truly vibe with what I’m creating in the studio.”
Ready to meet the lineup? Discover the 2026 RADAR artists from Asia below.
Stream our RADAR Indonesia playlist.
RADAR Thailand
Stream our RADAR Thailand playlist.
RADAR Philippines
Stream our RADAR Philippines playlist.
RADAR Japan
Stream our RADAR Japan (aka RADAR: Early Noise) playlist.
RADAR 新勢力
Stream our RADAR 新勢力 playlist, dedicated to the wider Mandopop space.
RADAR Hong Kong
Stream our RADAR Hong Kong playlist.
RADAR Singapore & Malaysia
Stream our RADAR Singapore & Malaysia playlist.