Shazam reveals Fast Forward 2026 breakout artist class

Shazam has unveiled Fast Forward 2026, its annual predictions list spotlighting emerging artists gaining serious momentum through discovery data. Moreover, the new class spans 20 genres and 22 countries, positioning the program as an early indicator of who could break through over the next 12 months.

Fast Forward combines Shazam’s trend signals with Apple Music editorial expertise, creating a global pulse-check that has already proved its value. Last year, the Fast Forward 2025 cohort saw a 67% average increase in Shazam discoveries year-over-year, while their collective radio spins rose by 70%. Additionally, 12 artists more than doubled their total Shazam discoveries, and 14 hit an all-time daily peak across the platform.

The momentum also carried into streaming. On Apple Music, the 2025 class saw collective plays rise by over 100% year-over-year, with 80% of artists increasing their total plays. Furthermore, nearly half of the picks delivered growth above 100%, reinforcing how quickly Shazam discoveries can translate into real listening behaviour.

For 2026, Shazam highlights an eclectic mix of rising names across scenes, including dance and electronic picks such as Baalti, DJ Habibeats, Odymel, Omar+, oskar med k, Sophia Stel, and Will Sass. Standout discovery stories already include oskar med k pushing ‘Make Me Feel’ to a global chart peak of No. 23, and Omar+ reaching No. 27 in the UK with ‘Make Believe’ alongside Luke Dean.

Alongside the predictions list, the App also continues expanding its tools for fans and artists. Notably, the platform recently introduced Popular Segments, which highlights the exact moments inside tracks that drive the most activity.

Fans can explore the full list of 65 artists on Shazam and stream the Shazam Fast Forward 2026 playlist via Apple Music.