Meet the '20 of 2026', the most promising artists for the new year

Hear from the breakthrough artists set to define 2026.

No one can predict the future, but some artists are so full of talent and potential that their success feels inevitable.

That’s why Tomorrowland and One World Radio have carefully curated the '20 of 2026' - a list of the 20 most promising artists to watch this year.

Get to know this year’s emerging talents, presenting their skills through exclusive 15-minute sets, mixed especially for the People of Tomorrow around the world.

Baby J

Baby J is a Perth-based DJ and artist whose Indo-English background informs a globally minded approach to contemporary electronic music. Her sets move fluidly across genres, driven by technical precision and a strong sense of musical intuition.

Her digital presence remains a key catalyst for international growth, with millions of views across her live sets, translating into ongoing international touring and repeat appearances across Asia. By combining a versatile, globally informed sound with a strong online following, Baby J is establishing a consistent and recognisable presence within the contemporary electronic music landscape.

 

bbyclose

A Brit 2025 nominee, bbyclose has quickly established a significant presence in the global dance scene. As the voice and co-writer of the hit "Kisses" by BL3SS & CamrinWatsin, she contributed to a track that surpassed half a billion streams and held the #1 spot on the Australian dance charts for 18 weeks.

Her collaboration with Sub Focus, "On & On," earned her a DJ Mag Best of British nomination for best track in 2025.

With over 10 million monthly listeners, she has collaborated with artists like Marlon Hoffstadt and FISHER. In late 2025, she launched her solo project with the single "EGO," signaling a transition from featured vocalist to a versatile solo artist moving into 2026.

bullet tooth

2025 served as a breakout year for bullet tooth, a producer and DJ navigating the intersection of House and Garage. Following a viral Boiler Room set, he secured peak-time slots at Glastonbury, Boomtown, and Amnesia in Ibiza.

His international reach expanded with a North American tour supporting Disclosure and headline shows in New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. His production work, released on labels like WHP, ATW, Positiva and his own rumours imprint, has received support from industry mainstays such as Chris Stussy and Skream.

Already named a Mixmag Breakthrough DJ of 2025, he now begins 2026 on Tomorrowland’s 'artists to watch’.

BYORN

Belgian artist BYORN is a prominent figure in the hard dance and techno scene, known for a sound that blends atmospheric storytelling with high-energy rhythms.`

 In 2024, he was recognized as Beatport’s best-selling hard techno artist, a milestone supported by over 20 million streams worldwide. His work is characterized by themes of transformation and ancient symbolism, aiming to create immersive experiences that transcend the traditional dancefloor environment.

Deer Jade

Swiss-French producer and DJ Deer Jade has built a steady international reputation through releases on esteemed labels such as Innervisions, Diynamic, and Kompakt.

Her performances are noted for their melodic storytelling and versatile, groovy beats. Having played at major global clubs and festivals, she focuses on creating a "transcendental" atmosphere through high-energy sets. Her signature sound is defined by its infectious energy and a focus on emotive, driving rhythms.

IDEMI

IDEMI is an underground dance project featuring London-based twins Rhett and Conran Lee. Transitioning from successful careers as writer-producers for major dance acts, the British-Chinese duo focuses on a sound inspired by the raw energy of 90s house.

Their debut EP was released on Jamie Jones’ HOTTRAX, and their tracks "Someday" and "Everytime" have garnered support from the likes of Swedish House Mafia and Gorgon City. IDEMI is positioned as a distinct new voice in the 2026 house music landscape.

JOA

Currently based in Miami, JOA has emerged as a significant force in melodic techno and tech house. He was one of the most-played artists at Tomorrowland 2025, and his track "Heavy" topped the 1001 Tracklists charts.

JOA has collaborated with industry icons Armin van Buuren and ARTBAT, with both releases reaching the top 2 on Beatport. His work has been supported by Anyma, David Guetta, and Tiësto, contributing to over 10 million streams during his breakthrough year.

Julya Karma

Emerging from the Brooklyn underground, Julya Karma is recognized for her dynamic selections of uplifting melodies and hypnotic grooves. Her musical foundation began with classical piano at age six, later influenced by jazz and psychedelic rock.

She has performed on prestigious stages including Coachella, Cercle, and Afterlife alongside legends like Sven Väth and RÜFÜS DU SOL. Her sets are designed as curated experiences that connect diverse musical influences with a primal, rhythmic energy.

JUNO

Hamburg-born artist JUNO blends his Vietnamese heritage with forward-thinking electronic production to create a unique niche in deep and melodic house.

His track "Last Dance" reached #3 on the All-Time Afro House Chart and surpassed 1.4 million plays on Spotify.

Supported by Black Coffee and Keinemusik, JUNO is noted for his ability to merge multicultural rhythms with modern electronic elements, resulting in a sound that resonates with a broad global audience.

LAMMER

Based in Rotterdam, LAMMER is a rising name in high-energy dance music. Drawing heavy inspiration from 90s rave, trance, and house, his sound has captured the attention of tastemakers like Job Jobse and Trym.

Following the success of his debut original release, "All Night," he has focused on a production style that emphasizes euphoric energy. With a background in art, he maintains a strong focus on the visual elements that accompany his music.

Lisa Korver

Lisa Korver is a Dutch DJ and producer specializing in the "groove-heavy" end of the spectrum, spanning Latin Core, hard house, and hard groove.

With a presence at festivals like Lowlands, Into the Woods, and Mysteryland, she has solidified her status as a new key figure in the Dutch scene. Defined by her versatility and focus on high-energy rhythms, her momentum continues to build as she expands her reach globally.

Malive

Brazilian artist Malive fuses house and techno with a distinct creative edge. His track "Edge of Desire," released via Defected, reached #1 on Beatport and received support from Solomun and Pete Tong.

His recent performance history includes high-profile showcases for Keinemusik and NOART, cementing his promising status as a future key contributor to the global electronic music scene.

Marsolo

Dutch talent Marsolo has seen a rapid ascent, fueled by Beatport #1 releases such as "Step by Step" and "Spaceship." He was already named one of Mixmag’s Top 25 Breakthrough DJs of 2025.

Known for his ability to command extended, immersive sets, he recently completed a sold-out "All Night Long" tour in the UK. His production style is supported by influential figures including Chris Stussy and Enzo Siragusa.

MPH

MPH is a leading figure in the new wave of UK Garage (UKG). He has released music on major labels like Atlantic and Black Book, and has remixed global stars such as Chris Lake and Anderson .Paak.

His career includes sold-out tours across the US and Australia, as well as performances at Glastonbury and Coachella. Backed by Disclosure and Skream, MPH is considered a primary torchbearer for the genre's modern era.

NOSI

Luxembourgish DJ and producer NOSI transitioned from local gigs to major international stages following the viral success of his single "So Good," which surpassed 50 million streams.

This momentum already led to his debut at Tomorrowland, marking a major career milestone. He currently focuses on energetic afro house and melodic house, getting support from Arodes and John Summit as he expands his global footprint.

oskar med k

Oslo-based producer oskar med k blends chill house melodies with club grooves. After his 2024 debut album Keep Your Feet, his 2025 release "Make Me Feel" went viral, leading to a major collaboration with Khalid.

Already known for live experiences where he often performs on the floor with the audience, he is set to embark on his first North American tour in Spring 2026.

Portex

At 26, Portex has developed a signature sound that combines acid influences with modern trance and techno.

His releases on labels like SLASH have secured multiple Top 10 positions on Beatport.

He has earned the support of techno heavyweights including Charlotte de Witte, Amelie Lens, KI/KI, and Patrick Mason, establishing himself as a technically proficient artist within the hard-groove and techno spheres.

Rosey Gold

Rosey Gold uses her platform to balance African roots with a sound refined through years of cultural exchange and lived experience across Europe.

Her music moves fluidly between Afro house and deep electronic sounds, creating a dialogue between continents that feels both grounded and forward-thinking and nostalgic.

Having lived and worked across Europe for many years, Rosey Gold’s work reflects the meeting point of African rhythm and European club culture.

Driven by intention and connection, her work centres on creating shared moments through music, where culture, movement, and community meet.

Sam Shure

Berlin-based Sam Shure creates melodic electronic music that balances cinematic atmosphere with club energy. His work on Tomorrowland’s CORE label reached #1 on their best-seller list, and he has amassed over 65 million streams.

A central figure in the Habitat label family, he has collaborated with artists like Monolink and CamelPhat. His performances at venues like Fabric London and Burning Man are known for being hypnotic and journey-driven.

Shimza

Shimza is a pivotal figure in South Africa’s music scene and a global leader in Afro Tech.

In 2020, he launched the KUNYE imprint to provide a bridge for emerging African producers to reach the international stage. His philanthropic efforts include the "One Man Show" in Soweto, which supports underprivileged children and hosts over 25,000 people annually.

Notably, he was the first artist to perform at the World Heritage Site Robben Island. His technical prowess and commitment to cultural unity have already made him a respected name worldwide.