Meet the Rising Stars Shaping Pinoy Music in 2026

The Philippine music scene is evolving fast, and a new generation of artists is stepping into the spotlight.

Spotify RADAR Philippines 2026 is highlighting 10 emerging acts that are making waves and redefining what it means to create Pinoy music today.

This year’s roster spans genres and styles, from alternative pop-rock sensations HEY JUNE! to indie innovators like Kenaniah, fitterkarma, and NEW LORE; heartfelt singer-songwriters rhodessa and Chezka; P-pop rising stars VVINK; and hip-hop and R&B talents Waiian, Paul N Ballin, and Elhé. Together, they showcase the diversity, creativity, and fresh perspectives pushing the Filipino music scene forward.

Since launching in the Philippines in 2020, Spotify RADAR has championed emerging local artists, helping them grow their audiences, build meaningful connections with fans, and gain the recognition they deserve.

“The Pinoy music scene continues to grow, with more artists pushing different sounds and perspectives forward. RADAR has always been about recognizing the artists driving that. We’re excited to bring their music to more listeners while keeping what makes them distinctly Filipino at the heart of their craft,” says Kossy Ng, Spotify’s Head of Music for Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

For the artists, being part of RADAR is more than a milestone, it's a confirmation of their journey.

“As a seven-month-old group, being recognized by Spotify feels surreal. RADAR reminded us why we started: our passion, our love for performing, and our drive to keep evolving,” shares VVINK.

NEW LORE adds, “You create art for yourself, but also to share it. Not everyone hears your music at first. Being part of RADAR gives us a platform to share our work intentionally, our albums, performances, and visuals, with the world.”

Spotify’s Editorial Watch Feed provides fans with deeper insights into these artists, offering stories behind their music, creative processes, and inspirations. Here’s a closer look at the 2026 RADAR Philippines artists:

• HEY JUNE! – This alternative pop-rock trio, Jim Mase, Coey Ballesteros, and Aci Fodra, is known for melodic tunes and relatable storytelling, including their debut single “Panahon.”
• Kenaniah – A multi-instrumentalist, producer, and singer-songwriter whose heartfelt tracks like “Sabihin Lang (Kung Ayaw Mo)” capture raw emotion and honesty.
• fitterkarma – A genre-blending collective weaving dark, folklore-inspired lyricism in songs like “Aswang sa Maynila” and “Pag-ibig ay Kanibalismo II.”
• Chezka – Blending folk, pop, and alternative sounds, she creates intimate moments exploring love, heartbreak, and mental health in “What Could’ve Been” and “Gently.”
• rhodessa – An indie-pop artist who first rose to attention with her 2019 cover of “Nobela”, now making waves with original tracks like “sana ako nalang.”
• NEW LORE – A creative trio combining music, poetry, and visual art into immersive experiences. Check out “substack girl” and “i know u by heart.”
• VVINK – A P-pop girl group whose songs reflect resilience, second chances, and everyday joy, including the single “Kailan Ka Aamin.”
• Waiian – A Makati-based rap artist known for clever bilingual flows and thoughtful lyrics. Standout tracks include “Solo Mission” and “SI LODS NA BAHALA.”
• Paul N Ballin – Famous for the viral hit “POGI”, he’s part of the Makati-based rap collective Psychedelic Boyz.
• Elhé – A genre-defying artist from Olongapo City whose dance background shapes his rhythm-driven approach to songs like “TAPAT” and “ITABI MO.”

This year’s RADAR lineup proves that Filipino music is alive with innovation, passion, and global potential. Tune in, listen, and get to know the voices shaping the future of Pinoy music.