You’ll want to brag that you knew these names before everyone else does.
The music world is always changing, with fresh voices ready to take over our playlists and festival stages. Here’s our list of 65 artists on the edge of mainstream success who you should know about right now.
These rising stars span all genres – from viral TikTok sensations to underground favorites. Get to know them now so you can say you were a fan before they blew up.
Hip-Hop / Rap
1. Cash Cobain
Cash Cobain, the Bronx-born rapper and producer, is redefining New York drill with his signature “sexy drill” sound-a blend of classic R&B and soul samples over drill beats, shifting the genre’s focus from street rivalries to romance and nightlife.
His infectious track “Fisherrr” and collaborations with stars like Drake and PinkPantheress have made him a sought-after producer and performer, even leading to impromptu concerts when venues overflow with fans.
2. Kapo
Kapo, from Cali, Colombia, stands out for fusing reggaeton with Afrobeat, creating melodic, upbeat tracks that avoid explicit content-a rarity in the genre. Songs like “Ohnana” and “UWAIE” have garnered hundreds of millions of streams, making him one of Colombia’s most streamed artists.
Kapo’s clean lyrics have helped him reach younger audiences and family-friendly playlists, broadening reggaeton’s appeal. Keep an eye on Kapo for his knack for crafting global hits that balance infectious rhythms with positive messages.
3. Saint Levant
Saint Levant (Marwan Abdelhamid) is a Jerusalem-born, Gaza-raised rapper who seamlessly weaves English, French, and Arabic into his nostalgic rap and R&B, reflecting his multicultural upbringing. His breakout “Very Few Friends” has resonated worldwide, especially among diaspora listeners.
Saint Levant’s trilingual approach is rare in mainstream rap, making his music a bridge between cultures and a fresh voice in global hip-hop. He’s worth following for his unique storytelling and genre-blending sound.
4. bib sama.
London’s bib sama. is pioneering “bibcore,” a futuristic blend of rap and electronic music inspired by video game aesthetics. His track “SKYLINES (’09)” exemplifies his innovative, glitchy soundscapes.
bib sama. often incorporates sounds from retro games and digital culture, making his music a playground for nostalgia and experimentation. He’s one to watch for pushing the boundaries of UK rap and electronic fusion.
5. Star Bandz
At just 16, Chicago’s Star Bandz (Ana Flowers) is making a name with her bold flow and energetic beats, as heard in viral tracks like “My Baby” and “Yea Yeah.” Her rapid rise and confident delivery have drawn comparisons to established stars.
Star Bandz’s music has become a staple on TikTok, fueling her popularity among Gen Z. Her early success signals a promising future as she brings fresh energy to the Chicago rap scene.
6. Xaviersobased
New York’s Xaviersobased (Xavier Lopez) is celebrated for his eccentric, genre-blending style, mixing elements of rap, punk, and experimental sounds in his mixtape “Keep It Goin Xav.”
Xavier’s “based” persona is inspired by internet culture and Lil B, making his music both self-aware and boundary-pushing. He’s worth following for his fearless experimentation and vibrant, DIY approach.
7. Chy Cartier
North London’s Chy Cartier is emerging as a standout in UK grime, thanks to her fearless debut mixtape “No Bring Ins,” marked by infectious hooks and a distinctive vocal style.
Fun fact: Chy’s rise is reminiscent of grime’s early legends, but her fresh perspective and unapologetic lyrics set her apart. She’s a key figure in grime’s new wave, bringing authenticity and innovation to the scene.
8. Hanumankind
Indian rapper Hanumankind (Sooraj Cherukat) merges his heritage with southern US rap influences, gaining international attention with “Big Dawgs”-even Arsenal FC used it for a pre-season video.
Hanumankind is among the few Indian rappers breaking into global hip-hop, blending local and international sounds. He’s worth watching for his cross-cultural impact and dynamic style.
9. Aliyah’s Interlude
Aliyah Bah, aka Aliyah’s Interlude, is an American rapper and influencer who went viral on TikTok with her fashion-forward “AliyahCore” aesthetic. Her debut single “It Girl” showcases her playful, trendsetting style.
Aliyah’s blend of music and viral fashion has made her a cultural influencer, not just a musician. She’s one to watch for her ability to set trends across music and digital culture.
10. Mudrat
Melbourne’s Mudrat brings raw energy to punk and hip-hop, fusing genres in tracks like “YOU DON’T CARE ABOUT POOR PEOPLE,” known for its political edge.
Mudrat’s live shows are renowned for their intensity, channeling the spirit of punk protest into modern hip-hop. He’s worth following for his fearless commentary and electrifying performances, standing out in Australia’s alternative music scene.
Pop / Indie Pop
11. Gigi Perez
Gigi Perez is a rising American indie-pop singer-songwriter whose deeply personal storytelling has struck a chord worldwide. Her breakout single, “Sailor Song,” became a global sensation after going viral on TikTok, where it was used in over 8 million videos and viewed more than 22 billion times-a testament to its universal appeal and emotional resonance.
Perez’s music, often exploring themes of love, loss, and queer identity, is especially meaningful for young LGBTQ+ listeners, offering both representation and catharsis. Her journey-from being dropped by a major label to self-releasing a viral hit-embodies resilience and the power of authentic connection in the digital age.
12. Jane Remover
Jane Remover is an American musician known for her genre-blending approach, fusing digicore, hyperpop, emo, EDM, and shoegaze into a sound that’s both experimental and emotionally raw. Her albums “Frailty” and “Census Designated” chart her evolution, with the latter highlighting a lush mix of shoegaze textures and bedroom pop sensibilities.
Jane’s dynamic vocal delivery and unpredictable song structures make her a standout in the new wave of internet-born pop. She’s been credited with helping define the “digicore” scene, a microgenre that’s exploded on platforms like SoundCloud and TikTok.
13. Lola Young
British singer-songwriter Lola Young brings a soulful, introspective edge to pop. Her viral single “Messy” soared to the top of the UK Singles Chart, and she’s collaborated with genre-bending artists such as Tyler, the Creator. Young’s lyrics are unflinchingly honest, often drawn from her own life, making her music both relatable and cathartic.
14. Hope Tala
This British singer brings jazzy, Gen-Z vibes to pop music. Set to perform at Coachella 2025, Hope Tala’s sound features acoustic bass and bossa nova guitar. Her single “Lovestained” showcases her floaty vocals bouncing off strummed rhythms.
Tala’s debut album “Hope Handwritten” arrives February 28. The first single “I Can’t Even Cry” highlights her talent for weaving her vocals around bass lines with natural improvisation. And her single “All My Girls Like To Fight”” was even named one of Barack Obama’s favorite songs of the year.
15. JACOTÉNE
JACOTÉNE, a Melbourne-based singer, burst onto the scene after winning triple j’s Unearthed High competition in 2022 with “I Need Therapy.” Her powerhouse vocals and soulful delivery have drawn comparisons to Amy Winehouse and Adele.
JACOTÉNE’s music stands out for its emotional depth and maturity, especially impressive given her young age. She is also one of the youngest winners in Unearthed High history, signaling a bright future ahead.
16. Billianne
Canadian singer-songwriter Billianne first captured attention with her heartfelt acoustic covers before releasing her debut EP, “The Things We Talk About.” Her emotive vocals and introspective songwriting have earned her a devoted online following, and her music offers a warm, intimate listening experience.
Trivia: Billianne’s cover of “Simply The Best” went viral, introducing her to a global audience and leading to her first original releases.
17. Biig Piig
Biig Piig (Jessica Smyth) is an Irish singer and rapper based in West London, known for her laid-back blend of R&B, pop, and jazz, often delivered in both English and Spanish. Her debut mixtape “Bubblegum” received critical acclaim for its genre-bending sound.
Biig Piig’s music is notable for its breezy, intimate vibe and multicultural influences. She’s also part of the influential NiNE8 Collective, a group of London-based creatives shaping the city’s music scene.
18. Blusher
Blusher is an Australian pop trio-Lauren Coutts, Jade Ingvarson-Favretto, and Miranda Ward-known for high-energy synth-pop and infectious hooks.
Formed in 2021, they quickly gained attention with their debut EP “Should We Go Dance?” which showcases their collaborative songwriting and production. The group’s live shows are renowned for their vibrant, danceable atmosphere, making them a must-see act on the festival circuit.
19. Remy Bond
There’s something cinematic about Remy Bond. Her sound blends vintage folk elegance with modern confessional songwriting — it’s Joni Mitchell meets Lana Del Rey, with a little indie shimmer. “Simple Girl” is exactly that: simple in the best way, quietly confident, and haunting in its understatement. She’s a throwback in spirit but fully rooted in the now.
20. Iona Luke
Iona Luke is a singer-songwriter and English student at Cambridge, whose music draws from folk, rock, and alternative traditions.
Inspired by icons like Patti Smith, her poetic songwriting and emotive performances have quickly made her a notable voice in the UK indie scene. Luke’s academic background in literature informs her lyrics, which are often rich with literary references and narrative depth.
Rock / Alternative / Punk
21. Horsegirl
Chicago trio Horsegirl-Nora Cheng, Penelope Lowenstein, and Gigi Reece-are like a breath of fresh air for anyone nostalgic for ’90s indie rock but craving something new. Their debut album, Versions of Modern Performance, is this cool mix of shoegaze, jangle pop, and grunge that somehow feels both familiar and excitingly fresh.
Produced by John Agnello (who’s worked with some serious alt-rock heavyweights), it even features Sonic Youth legends Steve Shelley and Lee Ranaldo. So yeah, they’re basically carrying the torch with style. If you’re into the kind of guitar noise that’s melodic but a little messy-in a good way-this is your band.
22. Lambrini Girls
Brighton’s Lambrini Girls-Phoebe Lunny and Lilly Macieira-bring punk with a sharp political bite and a cheeky grin. Their debut album, Who Let the Dogs Out, doesn’t shy away from heavy topics like misogyny and class issues, but they deliver it all with a fast, rebellious energy that’s impossible not to get swept up in.
Songs like “Bad Apple” are equal parts scathing and catchy, making you want to scream along and think hard at the same time.
23. The Pill
The Pill, a duo from the Isle of Wight, bring a kind of wonderfully messy “jank” punk that’s as funny as it is fierce. Lottie and Lily don’t hold back-they mix sharp satire with raw energy, and it’s refreshing to hear punk that’s unfiltered but still smart.
Their track “Problem” nails that vibe perfectly: a little chaotic, a little cheeky, and totally engaging.
24. Chewy She
London’s Chewy She is the kind of band that makes you want to dance and think at the same time. They mix electro, disco, and punk into a glittery, energetic sound that’s as much about fun as it is about feminist themes.
Their live shows? Apparently, a full-on experience with humor and theatrical flair that keeps you hooked. “Relationship” is a perfect example of their vibe-catchy, edgy, and impossible to sit still through.
25. Delivery
Melbourne’s Delivery formed during the 2020 lockdown, and you can hear that raw, urgent energy in their debut album Forever Giving Handshakes. They blend fuzzy garage rock with post-punk’s sharp edges, delivering music that feels spontaneous and real-like it could break out into a sweaty basement show any minute.
Their DIY spirit shines through, making them a standout in Australia’s punk scene. Fun fact: their name pretty much sums up their vibe-always ready to bring the noise and keep things moving.
26. Witch Post
Witch Post is a cool transatlantic duo-Scottish musician Dylan Fraser and American artist Alaska Reid-who create these dreamy, atmospheric tracks that blend shoegaze and dream pop.
Their debut single “Chill Out” is just that: a lush, immersive escape that feels both intimate and expansive. Their name hints at something mystical, which fits perfectly with the vibe they’re crafting. If you’re into music that feels like a soft, emotional haze, Witch Post is worth a listen.
27. Ashaine White
Ashaine White from North London is doing something pretty special by mixing grunge and soul-a combo you don’t hear every day. Inspired by legends as different as Ella Fitzgerald and Kurt Cobain, her EP Ash shows off powerful vocals and thoughtful songwriting.
She calls her style “grunge-soul,” and honestly, it fits. She’s got that raw edge but also a smooth, emotional depth that’s hard to ignore. Plus, she was an Ivor Novello Rising Star nominee in 2022, so people are definitely noticing.
28. Tiberius b
Canadian artist Frank Belcourt, aka Tiberius b, is gearing up to drop his debut album NEVERYTHING on June 6, 2025.
Produced alongside Dan Carey and Jamie Neville, the album mixes trip-hop, ’90s grunge, and alt-pop into a deeply personal journey through life’s ups and downs. His music is like a soundtrack to both chaos and calm, with a vibe that’s intimate and cinematic.
Country / Americana
29. Tucker Wetmore
Tucker Wetmore is the kind of artist who makes you sit up and take notice. Hailing from Washington state, his debut album What Not To dropped in April 2025 and is packed with deeply personal stories-think growing up with real struggles and turning them into songs that hit you right in the feels.
He’s already snagged a nomination for New Male Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards, which is no small feat for a newcomer. Fun fact: he co-wrote most of the album himself, and his single “Wind Up Missin’ You” has racked up millions of streams.
30. Ty Myers
At just 17, Ty Myers is proof that age really is just a number. This Texas kid signed with Columbia Records and is already blending classic country vibes with a slick, modern polish.
His single “Let ‘Em Talk” shows off not just his voice but his skills as a songwriter and musician-he’s got the whole package. It’s rare to see someone so young with that kind of focus and talent, so you’ll want to keep an eye on him.
31. Kashus Culpepper
Here’s a guy with a story: Alabama-born Kashus Culpepper is a Navy vet who’s bringing a bluesy, soulful flavor to country music. His lyrics feel raw and honest, like the kind of songs that stick with you long after they’re over.
His track “After Me?” is a great example of that. Plus, he’s been named one of GRAMMY.com’s 25 Artists to Watch in 2025, so clearly the industry is paying attention.
32. Lanie Gardner
You might already know Lanie Gardner from her viral cover of Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” (nearly 60 million views and counting). But she’s not just a one-hit-wonder cover artist-her original music, like the single “Buzzkill,” mixes classic rock and country in a way that feels fresh and real.
She’s part of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2025, which means she’s definitely one to watch.
33. Tanner Adell
Tanner Adell is shaking things up in country music with a bold mix of country, pop, and even hip-hop influences. Born in Kentucky, her debut album Buckle Bunny and her collab with Beyoncé on Cowboy Carter have gotten plenty of buzz-and for good reason. She’s unapologetically herself, and her storytelling is vibrant and fresh, attracting a wide audience.
R&B / Soul
34. Nia Smith
South London’s Nia Smith has a knack for blending retro-soul vibes with a splash of reggae, creating a sound that feels both classic and refreshingly modern. A BRIT School alumna, she first made waves on TikTok before landing spots supporting artists like Mahalia and Tems.
Her debut EP Give Up the Fear features “Personal,” a standout track with Jamaican dancehall legend Popcaan that perfectly captures her ability to mix heartfelt lyrics with irresistible rhythms. If you like your soul with a little edge and a lot of heart, Nia’s your new go-to.
35. Clementine Douglas
Clementine Douglas has spent years behind the scenes writing hits for others, but now she’s stepping out front with her own voice-and it’s worth paying attention to.
Her single “Slippin'” is a smooth, soulful showcase of her rich vocals and honest songwriting. Watching her evolve from a top-tier collaborator to a solo artist is like seeing a hidden gem finally get the spotlight it deserves.
36. Elmiene
Elmiene, from Oxford, brings gospel roots and silky smoothness to the modern R&B table. His influences-think Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder-shine through, but he’s not just rehashing the classics.
Being shortlisted for the BRITs 2025 Rising Star award is no small feat, and with his debut album on the horizon, Elmiene is shaping up to be a fresh, soulful force you’ll want to keep on your radar.
37. Annahstasia
Nigerian-American Annahstasia crafts lush, acoustic love songs that blur genre lines in the best way. Her upcoming debut album Tether (dropping June 2025) is steeped in fantasy and romance, inspired by her self-taught artistry and vocal heroes like Nina Simone and Janis Joplin.
There’s something quietly captivating about her music-it feels intimate, yet expansive, like a secret you want to share.
38. Aqyila
Toronto’s Aqyila mixes pop sensibilities with soulful R&B and empowering themes of self-love and resilience. Her debut album Falling Into Place, released earlier this year, includes the catchy single “Wolf” and earned her the Contemporary R&B Recording of the Year at the 2025 Juno Awards.
Aqyila’s music has that rare combo of being both deeply personal and widely relatable-a balance that’s hard to pull off but she nails it.
39. Maya Delilah
North London’s Maya Delilah brings a jazzy, guitar-led warmth to her R&B sound, backed by smoky vocals that feel both intimate and effortlessly cool.
Since graduating from the BRIT School, she’s steadily built a loyal following, culminating in her debut album The Long Way Around earlier this year. If you’re into soulful storytelling with a side of slick guitar work, Maya’s music is a breath of fresh air.
Electronic / Hyperpop / Experimental
40. Frost Children
Angel and Lulu Prost, the sibling duo behind Frost Children, are injecting a wild new energy into New York’s experimental pop scene. Since 2019, they’ve been blending hyperpop, punk, and internet-era absurdity into a sound that’s both dizzying and addictive.
Their live shows—like their recent DJ set at M3F 2025—are part rave, part performance art, and all energy. Fun fact: they once recorded an entire album in a remote Poconos cabin, just for the vibes.
41. Bassvictim
London’s Bassvictim pays homage to electroclash and phonk, infusing classic club grit with a modern underground edge. Their tracks evoke nostalgia for grimy club basements and neon-lit nights, yet always feel fresh. For the full experience, try listening while riding the DLR through East London at sunset.
42. Jessica Winter
Jessica Winter is an alt-pop artist known for keeping listeners on their toes. Her debut album, “My First Album” (out July 2025), promises big hooks, avant-garde touches, and glam influences. She’s also produced for acts like The Horrors and Walt Disco. Check out her single “All I Ever Really Wanted” for a taste of her catchy, unique style.
43. The Dare
Harrison Patrick Smith, aka The Dare, leads the indie sleaze revival with witty, synth-driven dance-pop. His viral hit “Girls” and the album “What’s Wrong with New York?” channel the chaotic energy of 2000s party scenes. His Coachella 2025 set, featuring “I Destroyed Disco,” was a highlight for fans of warehouse party nostalgia.
44. babyMINT
Taiwan’s babyMINT, formed via the survival show NEXTGIRLZ, are pure hyperpop chaos-in the best possible way. Their debut single “Booooooring” is anything but, mixing multiple languages, genres, and a sugar-rush of energy.
Their fandom (called B.I.U.-“Be someone who is Infinite and Unafraid”) is already growing fast. If you’re looking for the next big thing in global pop, keep an eye on these mint-green trailblazers.
45. Tsu Nami
LA’s Tsu Nami is making waves with her euphoric, festival-ready house tracks. “Never Be,” featuring Jade Alice, is a perfect example: uplifting, danceable, and impossible not to replay. She’s already played Red Rocks and EDC, and with releases on labels like mau5trap, her star is only rising.
46. Morgan Noise
Morgan Noise, originally from Devon and now in London, crafts surreal, genre-blurring electro-pop. Her single “I Put Everything” is a fever dream of jazz, synths, and poetic storytelling-think Björk meets a rainy British night. She’s also part of the indie renegade group Fat Dog, so you know she’s got range.
Shoegaze / Dream Pop
47. Dream Boy
Dublin’s Dream Boy is crafting a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Their track “Crying Wolf” envelops listeners in reverb-soaked guitars and haunting vocals, creating an atmosphere that’s both dreamy and emotionally resonant. It’s the kind of music that makes you want to get lost in thought, perhaps while watching the rain from your window.
48. Wisp
At just 19, San Francisco’s Natalie R. Lu, known as Wisp, has already made a significant impact with her debut EP, Pandora. Her breakout single “Your Face” blends delicate vocals with layers of distortion, capturing the essence of modern shoegaze. It’s introspective, melancholic, and undeniably captivating.
49. Heartcoregirl
Heartcoregirl is what happens when you throw shoegaze, trap, and internet-born emotional chaos into a blender — and it absolutely works.
The Glasgow artist started out as a SoundCloud teen and now delivers murky, ethereal tracks like “Little baby sweet” that feel like late-night heartbreak in audio form. Her sound might be hazy and a little bit glitchy, but her point of view is crystal clear.
50. Her New Knife
Philadelphia’s Her New Knife might not be the loudest name on the shoegaze scene — yet — but their EP chrome is lullaby is the kind of record that makes you want to stare at your ceiling with headphones on. It’s intense in all the right ways: woozy guitars, warped textures, and just enough post-punk bite to keep things interesting.
“kittyriff” in particular is a standout — noisy, beautiful, and more emotionally wrecking than you’d expect from a track with such a playful title.
51. Kurayamisaka
Tokyo’s Kurayamisaka blends early-2000s alternative rock with J-pop sensibilities, creating a unique and engaging sound. Their debut mini-album, kimi wo omotte iru, explores themes of friendship and separation with a cinematic touch. Their inclusion in NME’s “THE NME 100: Essential Emerging Artists for 2025” highlights their growing international recognition.
Latin / Global
52. Ela Taubert
Ela Taubert, a Colombian singer-songwriter, blends heartfelt lyrics with a mix of synth-pop and country influences. Her 2023 EP ¿Quién Dijo Que Era Fácil? showcased her vulnerability and knack for catchy melodies.
The standout ballad “¿Cómo Pasó?” became a significant hit, leading to her winning Best New Artist at the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs. She performed the song alongside Joe Jonas in a bilingual duet that resonated with audiences worldwide.
53. Erick Brian
Erick Brian Colón, formerly the youngest member of CNCO, is embarking on a solo journey that highlights his growth as an artist. His debut single, “Feliz Año Nuevo Triste,” delves into themes of love and longing, marking a more introspective turn in his music. The song has been well-received, indicating a promising start to his solo career.
54. El Malilla
El Malilla is bringing “reggaetón Mexa” to the forefront. Hailing from Valle de Chalco, he combines Mexican slang with classic reggaetón rhythms to create a sound that’s both authentic and innovative. In 2025, he made history as the first solo reggaetón Mexa artist to perform at Coachella, showcasing his culture on a global stage.
55. Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso
This Argentine duo is known for their electrifying performances and genre-blending music. Mixing elements of trap, funk, rock, and electronic, they create a unique sound that’s both unpredictable and captivating. Their Tiny Desk Concert gained significant attention, highlighting their dynamic stage presence and musical versatility.
56. Valiant
Jamaica’s dancehall scene has a new frontrunner, and his name is Valiant. With booming beats, slick bars, and enough swagger to fill a stadium, his tracks demand attention.
Songs like “Expensive” don’t just play. They own the moment, whether you’re blasting them on a sunny drive or vibing way past midnight. Backed by a major label and gaining fans by the minute, Valiant is already making serious moves.
Folk / Singer-Songwriter / Acoustic
57. Fiaa Hamilton
UK-born Fiaa Hamilton has one of those voices that immediately stops you in your tracks — soulful, raw, and deeply emotive.
Her breakout single “LOVE WAR” climbed to #8 on TikTok’s Pop Hits chart, but it’s not just the numbers that matter. Raised in foster care, she’s turned adversity into art, and you can hear that lived experience in every lyric. Honest, heartfelt, and undeniably catchy.
58. Syl Fisher
Philadelphia-based Syl Fisher brings a unique twist to folk music, blending acoustic storytelling with sci-fi imagery. Their songs feel like quiet reflections from another world — tender, deep, and thoughtful. It’s the kind of folk that’s comforting and strange in the best way.
59. Stella Bridie
Australian songwriter Stella Bridie writes emotional gut punches wrapped in delicate melodies.
The Melbourne-based songwriter has a knack for turning vulnerability into beauty, and her single “Organ Donor” is a perfect example: emotionally raw, a little eerie, and completely captivating. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to listen twice — first for the story, then for how it’s told.
60. Jacob Alon
This rising singer-songwriter from Scotland is known for their soft, emotional folk music. They mix gentle guitar with honest, poetic lyrics about love, identity, and self-reflection. Their sound feels both personal and theatrical, drawing you into every word.
Their debut album, In Limerence, comes out May 30, 2025. The lead single, “Liquid Gold 25,” is named after a brand of poppers and tells a story of unrequited love with striking detail and beauty.
K-Pop
61. Close Your Eyes (CYE)
Formed through JTBC’s Project 7 survival show in late 2024, Close Your Eyes (CYE) is already shaking up the K-pop scene.
Their April 2025 debut mini-album Eternalt isn’t about high-energy dance bangers. Instead, they opt for a smooth, early 2000s R&B vibe, under the direction of industry veteran Lee Hae-in. For instance, the title track, “All My Poetry,” is a nostalgic trip through soulful vocals and mid-tempo grooves, an unexpected but refreshing choice for a rookie boy group.
With members from Korea, China, and Japan, CYE’s nostalgic sound and polished style make them a standout.
62. KickFlip
[/speech] If you like: Stray Kids, ATEEZ, Tomorrow X Together [/speech]
JYP’s new boy group KickFlip hit the scene in January 2025 with Flip It, Kick It!, an adrenaline-packed mini-album.
The lead track “Mama Said” fuses pop-punk guitars and hyperpop synths, channeling a rebellious, skate-inspired vibe. Formed through SBS’s LOUD competition, they’ve quickly gained a rep for explosive performances and viral TikTok challenges, living up to their “Next-Gen K-pop Stage Kings” title.
63. UNIS
UNIS debuted in March 2024 after forming through SBS’s Universe Ticket survival show. With members from South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines, they bring a global girl-power vibe to the K-pop scene.
Their single “Superwoman” set a confident tone, and their 2025 track “Swicy” earned them their first music show win.
64. MEOVV
MEOVV (pronounced “meow”) is The Black Label’s first girl group, and they’re already making noise.
Their debut single “MEOW” dropped in late 2024 with fierce hip-hop beats and a cheeky, cat-themed concept.
In April 2025, they followed up with the Brazilian funk-infused “HANDS UP,” earning their first win on M Countdown. With Teddy Park at the helm, MEOVV is poised to claw their way to the top of 5th-gen K-pop.
65. Candy Shop
Brave Entertainment’s Candy Shop debuted in March 2024 with “Good Girl,” a tropical pop track that mixed bright, sultry sounds.
By 2025, they were already gaining traction with “Tip Toe,” a danceable city-pop comeback that brought a retro flair.
Despite setbacks, the group has stayed strong, winning over fans with their sweet-but-bold sound and playful image.