Spotify RADAR Philippines 2026 Puts the Spotlight on the Next Wave of Pinoy Music Artists

Finding your next favorite OPM artist doesn’t happen by accident—it’s usually about knowing where to look. This year, Spotify is making that discovery easier with the return of its RADAR Philippines program, spotlighting a fresh lineup of emerging Filipino talents ready to break through.

As the local music scene continues to evolve, more Filipino artists are experimenting with sound, storytelling, and identity. From indie and alternative to P-pop and hip-hop, today’s new wave isn’t defined by a single genre—it’s shaped by diversity and creative freedom.

For listeners, this means more opportunities to discover music that feels personal, relevant, and uniquely Filipino.

For 2026, Spotify RADAR Philippines introduces 10 rising acts worth keeping on your radar: HEY JUNE!, Kenaniah, fitterkarma, NEW LORE, rhodessa, Chezka, VVINK, Waiian, Paul N Ballin, and Elhé.

Since launching locally in 2020, the RADAR program has played a key role in helping emerging Filipino artists expand their reach and connect with wider audiences.

According to Kossy Ng, Spotify’s Head of Music for Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan, “The Pinoy music scene continues to grow, with more artists pushing different sounds and perspectives forward. RADAR has always been about recognising the artists driving that. We’re excited to bring their music to more listeners and support their growth, while making sure what makes them distinctly Filipino remains at the core of their music as they reach more audiences at home and beyond.”

VVINK shared, “As a seven-month-old group, being recognized by Spotify feels surreal like confirmation that we’re on the right path. Spotify RADAR reminded us why we started: our passion, our love for performing, and our drive to keep evolving.”

Meanwhile, NEW LORE highlighted the importance of discovery:“You make art for yourself, but also to share. Discovery is key, and not everyone hears your music at first. We’re thrilled to be part of RADAR—everything we do, from our album to our performances and aesthetics, is intentional, and we want to share it with the world.”

Breakdown: Artists to Watch

This year’s lineup reflects just how wide the OPM spectrum has become:

• HEY JUNE! – Alternative pop-rock with relatable storytelling
• Kenaniah – Honest, heartfelt sound from a multi-instrumentalist
• fitterkarma – Dark, genre-blending music inspired by Filipino folklore
• Chezka – Raw, emotional storytelling across folk and pop
• rhodessa – Indie-pop with viral roots and emotional depth
• NEW LORE – All-girl band merging music, poetry, and visual art
• VVINK – Rising P-pop group centered on resilience and growth
• Waiian – Hip-hop with sharp, bilingual lyricism
• Paul N Ballin – Viral rap energy with mainstream appeal
• Elhé – Rhythm-driven sound shaped by dance and movement

One thing for sure, this year’s RADAR lineup shows that OPM is no longer confined to one sound or formula—it’s becoming a space where individuality and experimentation lead the way, especially for younger artists.

As more platforms invest in artist discovery, programs like RADAR are becoming key in shaping what listeners hear next. For fans, it’s not just about streaming music—it’s about being early to the artists who could define the future of Filipino sound.