We’ve often been asked to curate our lists and, now, we’ve got one to share - but with a little twist. We asked some of our favourite diaspora led music platforms, who are all repping the Asian music community, to send in their 2 picks.
With representation from West to East Asian heritage, the list aims to spotlight artists across borders and cultural backgrounds with a collaborative ethos of platforms linking arms and uplifting each other under the wider Asian diaspora umbrella. Alongside continuing our goals of increased meaningful representation for the Asian diaspora in the Western scene. We see this as an opportunity to reflect on what we share as a wider community but also appreciate each other’s differences. After all, we are connected more than we know through our histories and cultures.
Huge thank you to all the platforms involved. We hope to keep this growing and continue the new tradition of having an annual Ones To Watch list.
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Yoshi T.: The New York Japanese-American artist stands out as a someone who seamlessly blends the worlds of rap, production, and visual art. His unique fusion of contemporary Hip-Hop, Pop, and R&B has garnered significant attention. Starting from humble house shows, Yoshi T. gradually progressed to sharing stages with fellow WHATMORE collective members. "Yoshi T. is an NYC indie favorite, now blending his unique fusion of hip-hop, pop and R&B as part buzzy collective WHATMORE." |
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REHMA: A Pakistani-American R&B/Alternative Pop artist from Los Angeles known for dreamy, introspective, and soulful music blending English and Urdu. Self-titled as 'desi-futurist', REHMA combines serious emotions with an upbeat vibe, rooted in a musical family and a passion for authentic self-expression, pushing boundaries with jazzy, alt-R&B beats. "Pakistani pop-R&B singer Rehma, based in Los Angeles, is the voice behind “Say My Name,” her recent collaboration with Jai Wolf." |
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Kiwako Ashimine: A singer-songwriter from Okinawa. From music production, lyric composition to song arrangement, this young lady does it all. Constantly delivering captivating live performances, she has a crystalline voice that is unforgettable. "We discovered Kiwako when we saw her perform in Bali earlier this year and were floored not only by her all-encompassing stage presence which quickly and quietly swept the crowd into a frenzy, but also by her unique perspectives on her fluid artistry which is almost spiritual in nature for her. She has some exciting projects coming up in 2026 which complete her thematic story she has been telling over the last few releases, so we’re very excited to see her breathe life into that!" |
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Irène Schrader: A multilingual singer-songwriter whose music blends the diverse cultures she has experienced. Her sound is influenced by 70s and 90s Mandopop, the timeless charm of late 60s and 70s French chanson, and modern electro-pop and indie styles. "This artist may be known to some audiences for her hauntingly beautiful renditions of 70s and 90s Mandopop classics that have gained her a loyal following on social media. But lesser known to many, Schrader who comes from a background in music journalist is also a budding singer-songwriter and producer who has just released her latest trilingual EP, blending French romanticism with Mandopop influences for contemporary audiences. We love her gentle vocals and the space-themed sonic landscape, which are clearly just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this cerebral and thoughtful artist with many layers waiting to be unpacked ✨" |
BODUR: The London-born Turkish-Sri Lankan artist harnesses jazz, pop, rock, electronic soundscapes and Arabic music tradition to embrace her dual heritage and layered identities. From the music itself to the visual aesthetics, BODUR’s creative process is shaping her as an artist who is inspiring a generation of South Asian and Middle Eastern women across the UK. "We love how BODUR presents deep explorative studies, not only in the specificity of the sounds she chooses but also into the experiences that have shaped her own and those in her communities lives. Though she'd most likely still call herself a student, it's clear that she has fine tuned her storytelling tapestries of musical influences, politics, introspections and more; with both purpose and freedom. BODUR's projects 'ÖZ' and 'MAQAM' are a true genesis of an artist creating her distinct sonic world. We can't wait to hear and see where her explorations lead her next." |
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ix: The UK artist draws together elements of RnB, experimental and atmospheric textures, combined with introspective lyrics to navigate his raw emotionally charged sound. "From the moment we listened to this artist, we melted into his smooth vulnerable lyricism and accompanying weathered vocals. There is the familiarity of artists such as Frank Ocean, with the addition of alt-esque layering that adds the artist's personal depth. With only a couple of EPs out, we find ourselves listening to him on repeat often, with each listen as captivating as the first time. ix's value of community is further illuminated by his collaborations, and innovative events. All this combined, it's no wonder people are tapping into this artist." |
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nikhil: With a passion for crafting genre-defying soundscapes, nikhil (formerly known as Nikhil Beats) orchestrates music that resonates deeply, ignites emotions, and invites movement. nikhil’s musical style embodies a contemporary reinterpretation of alternative soulful R&B, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of influences that span from indie rock to hip-hop. "Nikhil has grown into a rising star with his genre-blending tracks rooted in alternative soulful R&B. He pulls from indie rock and hip hop with purpose and precision, with his vocals adding a beautiful weight to his production choices. His music sets itself apart thanks to its emotional depth and sound that feels distinct in every track." |
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htmljones: The artist is a Tamil songwriter from NE London in the alternerative, hyper pop scene. She began releasing solo music in late 2023 on her TikTok and YouTube, catching the attention of artists like Tinashe. Her debut EP was called “irresistibly catchy and heartbreakingly raw” by Gay45. "htmljones stands out for her influence across music and community spaces. She is a British Tamil rapper with a hyperpop adjacent style that is truly striking and distinct. She runs AZNSZN, a live night for trans and queer POC musicians. The event gives artists stage access and consistent support. She also leads EMOTIONAL LABOUR, a talkshow with direct conversations for underrepresented voices. Her work shows that htmljones' cultural impact knows no bounds." |
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Wet Market: Made up of Matt Tong (ex-Bloc Party, Algiers), Jojo Khor (GHUM), Ed Riman and Helen Ganya. This new left-field British rock collective wanted a moniker that would represent the commonality of their differing backgrounds, with heritage across Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. After months of back and forth, it was half-jokingly that Tong suggested Wet Market. For a group of artists with East and South-east Asian roots, the name is very much a wry, confrontational reclamation. "The collective came together for the first time in 2023 via ESEA Music, where they then went on to write and recorded together. The provocative name is a nod to the Covid era – a time when anti-Asian hate was on the rise, and the members found themselves wanting to connect to ESEA community. Their debut single ‘Red Lantern’, a thundering, frenzied track about the exoticising, orientalist gaze that they have each experienced in some shape or form through their lives. It’s a tongue-in-cheek song that is shot through with a bold defiance, all of which feels fitting for a collective already pushing the boundaries of people’s perceptions." |
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Justin Peng: Musically inspired by soulful vocalists like George Michael and Sam Smith, Justin Peng delivers a captivating blend of R&B, soul, and pop that resonates across cultures. A British-Chinese artist with a growing international presence, Justin bridges East and West with his heartfelt songwritting, powerful vocals, and authentic storytelling. "Since winning China’s national TV talent competition Bravo Youngsters (华彩少年) in 2020 and being named Vogue China’s "Rising Newcomer," Justin quickly emerged as a unique voice in global pop. Following two sold-out headline shows in London, Justin has expanded his live presence internationally with performances across 4 major Chinese cities. With two EPs on the way and distribution deals with 88rising (global) and ByteDance (Greater China), Justin is cementing his place as one to watch — representing queer, East Asian voices in the future of pop music." |
sooyeon: A staple of London’s club culture, the Korean DJ has become synonymous with high-energy sets that fuse UK bass, techno, and leftfield club sounds. In 2024, the artist started releasing her own music, marking a continuation of her creative evolution - cementing her reputation as both a powerhouse DJ and a rising producer to watch. "We love her sassy and playful approach to club music. Her latest single ‘From There For Now’ further builds on her signature sound and we’re excited for what’s to come! Also formally known as Oh Annie Oh, she’s changed her name to her given Korean name, embracing her cultural identity in her artistry! Keep embracing you, girl!" |
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SENAIDA: A queer, Hakka Chinese-Canadian transdisciplinary artist-technologist, researcher, sound architect, DJ, curator, and creative entrepreneur. Their work delves into the intersections of sonic cyberfeminism, post-humanism, generative art, and sustainability to create collective experiences. "We’ve been following NYC-based artist, SENAIDA, from across the pond with admiration! SENAIDA is so much more than an artist, exploring sound through multiple mediums of art and technology. We’re excited to see their journey across the US and beyond." |
Atrialia: A rising Arab DJ and trailblazer known for sets across the UK, focusing on identity, freedom, and community with hypnotic rhythms. With bass grooves and SWANA beats, she crafts sonic expression expression of the Western queer Arab diaspora experience. "She played Laylit in London twice in the last year and each time provided a terrific, meaningful and energetic set, swiftly navigating the duality of her SWANA identity and life in the UK. A really promising DJ and we can't wait to see what she comes up with in the future!" |
Hiba Salameh: A music producer, filmmaker, DJ, and researcher from Haifa. Touring around the world with her electrifying sets and being named by Mixmag as 'one of the Palestinian DJs you need to know'. Never accepting borders, she continuously challenges music genres to create unique sensual experiences while bonding music traditions rooted in the past with their contemporary reflections. "A veteran of the SWANA scene, both in Palestine and now in the diaspora. Her sets are a true testament to her roots and to her love of electronic music, always challenging how music genres can interact and dialogue. Her work feels especially significant now, as ongoing wars back home have forced many people out, and have left our diaspora community grieving and powerless." |
Karma Sheen: a London-based band, blends Hindustani Classical music, 60s-inspired rock, and Sufi lyricism to create a sound that bridges cultural tradition and modern innovation. "Last time I saw Karma Sheen was at their sold-out show in the 100 Club. They tore the whole venue apart, mixing psychedelic 70s soul with desi melodies. They are so good that even Jimmy Page was there! The live show alone is worth witnessing, but I’m also really looking forward to their new album in 2026." |
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Reble: aka Daiaphi Lamare. Battling the adversities of her own personal struggles, she intends for her razor-sharp lyricism and unique flows, to inspire those like herself to come forward and embrace their art, where opportunities may often seem lacking. Emphasizing on creating music and lyrics that connect with the layman, rather than complexity that scares away, Reble’s music aims to combine hard-hitting truths with the realities of every day. "I first discovered Reble through my friend Rafiki’s radio show, and the moment her track, Terror, came on, I immediately texted him to find out who it was. I’ve been hooked ever since. Her sound stands out for its powerful blend of fierce, stomping, defiant lyricism paired with a strikingly melodic flow. Although her catalog is still small, the momentum she’s building is undeniable, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year as more of her work is set to be released." |
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Nai Barghouti: Award-winning Palestinian singer, flutist and composer, the, is renowned for her powerful voice and deeply emotive performances that move her audience to tears, laughs, elation, and long-standing ovations. She presents a diverse repertoire that highlights her genre-defying blend of re-arranged renowned Arabic classics, with a unique fusion of jazz, pop, folk, electronic, Western, and Arabic music. "Nai Barghouti skillfully connects 'tarab' and jazz, breathing new life into traditional folklore with impressive vocal flexibility. Whether through original works or rearrangements of legends like Fairuz, her presence guides audiences through journeys of grief and hope, marking her as one of the most distinguished vocalists of her generation" |
Naseer Shamma: The Iraqi-born maestro and UNESCO Artist for Peace is globally recognised as one of the preeminent virtuosos of the oud. Throughout a career decorated with over 70 international awards, Shamma has been a pioneer in modernising the instrument, even manufacturing an eight-string oud based on 9th-century manuscripts. In 1999, he founded "The Arab Oud House" in Cairo to preserve and elevate Arabic musical heritage, an institution that has since expanded to major cities across the SWANA region. "Naseer Shamma’s music serves as an important bridge between the East and the West. His compositions, ranging from film scores to orchestral works, evoke a spiritual language that transcends geography to address universal themes of exile and peace. Beyond mastery, his humanitarianism reflects a belief in music as a tool for global harmony." |
Awadh: An autodidact beat-maker & rapper whose sound was honed in the youth clubs across his native west London. Through ideals of self-preservation he decided to go against societal & familial pressures, risking his place in both to pursue his sole ambition of being the best MC, ever, bar none. "Awadh's a lyrical genius. He blends the two worlds of his Yemeni origin and UK upbringing in a unique way that no one's done before - Old school hip hop meets Arabic sonics." |
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Rhea Kattan: A Lebanese singer, songwriter, and drummer. She’s the odd one out. She lives in a realistic world with the purpose to challenge the boundaries of what sets us apart as people. "Rhea Kattan is an amazing singer-songwriter and a multi-talented musician. She has a unique way of bringing life to a story to make the listener feel like they were there. She utilises Arabic sounds in her music in an interesting way." |
