14 Countries, 10 Artists: Gen Z Reveals Their Favorite Music Stars

We Asked 14 Gen Zers to Rank the Top 10 Artists in Their Countries—Here's What They Shared

Music defines a generation, and for Gen Z, the soundtrack is a global fusion of beats, lyrics, and vibes. From the U.S. to South Korea, Gen Zers are curating their own music scene, blending local talent with international stars. We asked 14 Gen Zers from 14 different countries to rank their top 10 favorite artists. From pop queens to underground legends, this is who’s shaping the sound of Gen Z globally.

1. United States

"Olivia Rodrigo is owning the scene right now—her lyrics hit deep, and everyone can relate to her heartbreak anthems. Lil Nas X is all about breaking boundaries, with his genre-defying tracks and bold visuals. Doja Cat’s mix of rap and pop keeps her fresh, and Billie Eilish’s moody sound still resonates. Travis Scott continues to dominate with his high-energy performances, while Tyler, The Creator’s experimental vibes make him a Gen Z favorite. Post Malone’s chill, relatable style, SZA’s soulful R&B, and Megan Thee Stallion’s empowering bangers also keep us hooked. Jack Harlow rounds out the list with his fun, laid-back rap style."
— Madison, 21, Los Angeles

Top 10 U.S. Artists:

1. Olivia Rodrigo – Gen Z’s queen of heartbreak anthems, relatable and raw.
2. Lil Nas X – Genre-bender pushing boundaries with his bold visuals and sound.
3. Doja Cat – Rap-pop sensation known for her catchy, genre-mixing hits.
4. Billie Eilish – The reigning moody pop star with introspective lyrics.
5. Tyler, The Creator – Quirky, experimental rapper who redefines what’s cool.
6. Post Malone – Laid-back, genre-blurring artist with relatable lyrics.
7. SZA – R&B queen delivering soulful, emotional bangers.
8. Megan Thee Stallion – Empowering, fierce rapper with unstoppable hits.
9. Jack Harlow – Rising star with his fun, easy-going rap style.
10. Olivia O’Brien – Pop artist known for her emotional, Gen Z-relevant lyrics.

2. Japan

"YOASOBI has taken over with their storytelling-driven pop that’s always fresh and innovative. Kenshi Yonezu blends futuristic beats with poetic lyrics, making his music stand out. While BTS is globally massive, they have a huge following here in Japan too. King Gnu’s rock-tinged sound is loved by Gen Z, and Fujii Kaze’s smooth, R&B-infused tracks are super popular. NiziU brings that high-energy J-pop vibe, and Official HIGE DANDism’s feel-good pop-rock hits are everywhere. Twice keeps K-pop alive in Japan, and Aimer’s hauntingly beautiful ballads never fail to impress. Da-iCE rounds it off with their danceable J-pop bops."
— Haruto, 20, Tokyo

Top 10 Japanese Artists:

1. YOASOBI – Known for blending pop and storytelling with innovative sounds.
2. Kenshi Yonezu – Fuses futuristic beats with emotional, poetic lyrics.
3. BTS – K-pop giants with an army of fans in Japan.
4. King Gnu – Rock-pop band that balances intense energy with artistic expression.
5. Fujii Kaze – Smooth, soulful artist blending R&B with modern pop.
6. NiziU – High-energy J-pop girl group with vibrant performances.
7. Official HIGE DANDism – Feel-good pop-rock band with anthemic hits.
8. Twice – K-pop girl group dominating the charts with catchy tracks.
9. Aimer – Delivers haunting, emotional ballads with a cinematic touch.
10. Da-iCE – Popular J-pop group known for their danceable, upbeat hits.

3. Spain

"Rosalía is on top—her mix of flamenco with reggaeton and experimental beats is fire. C. Tangana’s smooth style blends hip-hop with traditional Spanish sounds, making him a Gen Z favorite. Bad Gyal is owning the dancehall and reggaeton scene, while J Balvin and Bad Bunny continue to be global reggaeton powerhouses. Lola Índigo keeps things fresh with her pop-infused reggaeton, and Rauw Alejandro’s Latin pop sound is everywhere. Aitana’s bubblegum pop is a staple here, and Omar Montes is blowing up with his trap and reggaeton mix. Don Patricio’s chill rap vibe completes the lineup."
— Carmen, 22, Madrid

Top 10 Spanish Artists:

1. Rosalía – Flamenco-meets-reggaeton queen taking over global music.
2. C. Tangana – Smooth hip-hop artist blending Spanish and urban sounds.
3. Bad Gyal – Dancehall and reggaeton star with edgy, party-ready tracks.
4. J Balvin – Reggaeton giant with massive international appeal.
5. Bad Bunny – Latin trap artist pushing boundaries globally.
6. Lola Índigo – Pop-reggaeton fusion that’s fresh and fun.
7. Rauw Alejandro – Latin pop artist dominating the charts.
8. Aitana – Spain’s pop princess with catchy, upbeat tracks.
9. Omar Montes – Trap-reggaeton artist rising fast in the Spanish scene.
10. Don Patricio – Laid-back rapper with a chill, summery vibe.

4. Australia

"Tame Impala is Australia’s indie king, known for his psychedelic sound that Gen Z loves. The Kid LAROI is blowing up with his raw, emotional tracks. Courtney Barnett’s chill, observational lyrics keep her an indie favorite, and Flume’s electronic beats are still a staple here. Mallrat brings a dreamy pop sound, and G Flip’s anthems blend pop and rock effortlessly. Genesis Owusu’s alternative hip-hop is buzzing, and Tkay Maidza’s sharp, energetic rap makes her one to watch. RÜFÜS DU SOL is still huge with their electronic dance hits, and Tash Sultana’s one-person band act blows everyone away."
— Ethan, 22, Sydney

Top 10 Australian Artists:

1. Tame Impala – Psychedelic indie artist leading Australia’s music scene.
2. The Kid LAROI – Gen Z’s emotional rap sensation making waves globally.
3. Courtney Barnett – Indie darling with chill, observational lyrics.
4. Flume – Electronic producer known for his experimental beats.
5. Mallrat – Dreamy pop singer with laid-back vibes.
6. G Flip – Pop-rock artist delivering anthemic, relatable hits.
7. Genesis Owusu – Alternative hip-hop artist shaking up the scene.
8. Tkay Maidza – Rapper with sharp, energetic flow and infectious beats.
9. RÜFÜS DU SOL – Electronic trio with feel-good dance tracks.
10. Tash Sultana – Multi-instrumentalist known for her captivating solo performances.

5. Germany

"Gen Z in Germany is all about mixing hip-hop and pop, and Apache 207 is leading the charge with his genre-blending sound. RIN is another big name, with his chill rap style. Shirin David’s mix of rap and pop has her dominating the charts, while Capital Bra keeps dropping trap hits. Juju brings a more introspective, emotional vibe to German rap, and Loredana’s slick rhymes have her fanbase growing fast. UFO361’s autotuned trap flows are loved by Gen Z, and Cro’s feel-good pop-rap still has major influence. Bonez MC is a constant presence in the rap scene, and LEA’s singer-songwriter style brings a softer touch to the mix."
— Sven, 23, Berlin

Top 10 German Artists:

1. Apache 207 – Genre-blending rapper with a unique pop-rap sound.
2. RIN – Laid-back rapper with a distinct flow and vibe.
3. Shirin David – Pop-rap queen dominating the charts with catchy tracks.
4. Capital Bra – Trap star consistently dropping major hits.
5. Juju – Emotional rapper with a deep, introspective style.
6. Loredana – Rising rap star with slick, hard-hitting bars.
7. UFO361 – Trap artist known for his autotuned, futuristic sound.
8. Cro – Pop-rap icon known for his upbeat, feel-good music.
9. Bonez MC – Heavy-hitting rapper always in the mix.
10. LEA – Singer-songwriter with a softer, more emotional touch.

6. China

"In China, Gen Z is all about mixing global trends with local pop, and right now, Jackson Wang is dominating the scene with his international appeal and sleek style. Lay Zhang, formerly of EXO, is also huge, blending K-pop with C-pop. Kris Wu was a major player before his controversy, but his influence remains undeniable. Tia Ray’s soulful voice brings R&B to the forefront, while Jane Zhang’s versatile pop keeps her relevant across generations. Cai Xukun is a rising star, known for his smooth dance moves and catchy pop beats. Karry Wang’s youthful charm and pop appeal make him a fan favorite, and G.E.M. consistently delivers powerhouse vocals and meaningful lyrics. Hua Chenyu’s experimental approach to pop and rock has earned him a cult following. Rocket Girls 101 brings a K-pop-inspired girl group vibe that Gen Z can’t get enough of."
— Mei, 21, Shanghai

Top 10 Chinese Artists:

1. Jackson Wang – Internationally recognized star blending pop, hip-hop, and sleek style.
2. Lay Zhang – Former EXO member with a smooth mix of K-pop and C-pop.
3. Kris Wu – Former top artist known for blending Chinese and global sounds.
4. Tia Ray – R&B queen with soulful vocals making waves in the Chinese music scene.
5. Jane Zhang – Versatile pop icon with a multi-generational fanbase.
6. Cai Xukun – Rising star known for his catchy dance-pop beats.
7. Karry Wang – Young pop sensation with a massive following.
8. G.E.M. – Powerful vocalist blending meaningful lyrics with strong pop hooks.
9. Hua Chenyu – Experimental artist known for pushing boundaries in pop and rock.
10. Rocket Girls 101 – K-pop-inspired girl group that’s taken over Chinese music.

7. France

"In France, Aya Nakamura is the biggest thing in pop—her Afrobeat and French pop fusion is everywhere. PNL’s emotional rap makes them household names, with their introspective lyrics resonating with Gen Z. Angèle’s fresh pop vibe with a feminist twist has made her a huge star, while Nekfeu remains one of France’s most respected rappers. Christine and the Queens is all about blending genres, from pop to art rock, and has a massive following. Dadju’s R&B-influenced sound is huge in both France and Africa, and Booba continues to dominate with his hard-hitting rap. Lomepal’s emotional, melancholic rap connects deeply with French youth, and Ninho is a rising star in the trap scene. Finally, Maître Gims remains a steady presence with his pop-rap hits."
— Amélie, 22, Paris

Top 10 French Artists:

1. Aya Nakamura – Afrobeat and French pop fusion making waves globally.
2. PNL – Introspective rap duo known for their emotional lyrics.
3. Angèle – Pop singer with a fresh, feminist twist on the genre.
4. Nekfeu – Respected rapper with deep, thoughtful lyrics.
5. Christine and the Queens – Genre-blending artist mixing pop with art rock.
6. Dadju – R&B star with a massive following in both France and Africa.
7. Booba – Legendary French rapper with a hard-hitting style.
8. Lomepal – Emotional rapper with a melancholic, relatable vibe.
9. Ninho – Rising trap star gaining huge traction.
10. Maître Gims – Pop-rap artist with a long-standing presence in the French scene.

8. Italy

"Måneskin has exploded onto the global scene after winning Eurovision—they bring rock and glam in a way that resonates with Gen Z here. Sfera Ebbasta dominates the trap scene with his edgy sound, while Mahmood’s fusion of pop and Arabic influences sets him apart. Ghali’s smooth, multilingual rap is super popular, and Elodie’s pop hits are catchy and fun. Tha Supreme’s experimental rap is a favorite among Italian Gen Zers, and Blanco’s fresh, emotional style is gaining more and more traction. Achille Lauro’s flamboyant, rebellious performances make him one to watch, while Baby K keeps delivering Italian-language pop bangers. Rkomi’s mix of rap and pop adds another layer of versatility to the Italian music scene."
— Marco, 21, Milan

Top 10 Italian Artists:

1. Måneskin – Rock and glam band that’s taken the world by storm.
2. Sfera Ebbasta – Trap king with edgy, genre-defining hits.
3. Mahmood – Pop artist blending Arabic influences into his sound.
4. Ghali – Multilingual rapper with smooth, genre-crossing tracks.
5. Elodie – Pop sensation with catchy, feel-good hits.
6. Tha Supreme – Experimental rapper pushing the boundaries of Italian music.
7. Blanco – Emotional, rising star in the Italian music scene.
8. Achille Lauro – Flamboyant artist known for rebellious, bold performances.
9. Baby K – Italian-language pop queen with endless catchy bangers.
10. Rkomi – Rapper blending pop and rap for a unique, versatile sound.

9. Canada

"Drake is obviously still on top in Canada—he’s practically a global icon at this point. The Weeknd’s moody, atmospheric sound is loved worldwide, and Justin Bieber’s pop reign isn’t over yet. Shawn Mendes continues to drop catchy love songs that Gen Z adores, while Alessia Cara’s relatable, laid-back pop keeps her relevant. Jessie Reyez’s raw, emotional lyrics make her a favorite, and Tate McRae is a rising star with her emotional pop hits. bbno$’s quirky, internet-fueled rap style is gaining more attention, and Daniel Caesar’s soulful R&B vibes are perfect for chill playlists. Finally, Grimes’ futuristic, electronic sound keeps her as one of the most unique voices in Canadian music."
— Avery, 22, Toronto

Top 10 Canadian Artists:

1. Drake – Global rap icon leading the music scene in Canada.
2. The Weeknd – Atmospheric pop and R&B star with international appeal.
3. Justin Bieber – Long-standing pop sensation still reigning on the charts.
4. Shawn Mendes – Singer-songwriter known for his catchy love songs.
5. Alessia Cara – Relatable pop star with laid-back, emotional hits.
6. Jessie Reyez – Raw, emotional singer known for her deep lyrics.
7. Tate McRae – Rising star with moody, emotional pop anthems.
8. bbno$ – Internet-born rapper with a quirky, fun style.
9. Daniel Caesar – Soulful R&B artist perfect for chill vibes.
10. Grimes – Futuristic, electronic artist with a unique sound.

10. Brazil

"Brazil’s Gen Z is vibing hard to Anitta—she’s everywhere, with her reggaeton and funk-inspired hits. Pabllo Vittar is a queer icon with a massive following, and Ludmilla’s funk and pop sound make her a favorite. MC Kevinho is the king of Brazilian funk, and Alok is our biggest DJ, delivering electrifying beats. Zé Felipe’s catchy sertanejo-pop is popular, and Marília Mendonça’s emotional sertanejo ballads still resonate deeply with us. Gloria Groove brings bold, drag-queen energy into the pop and funk scene. Luísa Sonza’s pop is fun and empowering, while Kevinho keeps dropping addictive funk tracks that keep the party going."
— Sofia, 21, São Paulo

Top 10 Brazilian Artists:

1. Anitta – Reggaeton and funk queen dominating both locally and globally.
2. Pabllo Vittar – Queer icon with a bold, energetic pop-funk sound.
3. Ludmilla – Funk-pop star blending Brazilian beats with catchy melodies.
4. MC Kevinho – Funk king with infectious party tracks.
5. Alok – Brazil’s top DJ delivering electrifying dance music.
6. Zé Felipe – Sertanejo-pop artist known for his catchy hooks.
7. Marília Mendonça – Sertanejo queen with deeply emotional ballads.
8. Gloria Groove – Drag queen delivering high-energy funk and pop hits.
9. Luísa Sonza – Empowering pop star with fun, upbeat tracks.
10. Kevinho – Party-starting funk artist with massive hits.

11. South Africa

"Amapiano is taking over South Africa, and Kabza De Small is leading the charge with his smooth, house-influenced beats. DJ Maphorisa is another Amapiano king, constantly delivering hits. Nasty C is our rap star with sharp lyrics and a global sound, while Sho Madjozi brings a unique blend of rap and traditional Tsonga influences. Elaine’s R&B tracks are emotional and deeply relatable, and Focalistic’s upbeat Amapiano-rap fusion keeps the party going. Black Coffee is still our top DJ, and Sun-El Musician’s Afro-house tracks are loved for their feel-good vibes. Cassper Nyovest remains a major name in the rap scene, while Msaki’s soulful, folk-inspired voice is perfect for chill playlists."
— Zola, 23, Johannesburg

Top 10 South African Artists:

1. Kabza De Small – Amapiano leader with smooth house beats.
2. DJ Maphorisa – Amapiano king delivering hit after hit.
3. Nasty C – Rap sensation known for his sharp lyrics and global appeal.
4. Sho Madjozi – Unique rapper blending Tsonga music with global sounds.
5. Elaine – R&B star with emotional, relatable tracks.
6. Focalistic – Amapiano-rap fusion artist with upbeat, party-ready songs.
7. Black Coffee – Legendary DJ known for his Afro-house beats.
8. Sun-El Musician – Feel-good Afro-house artist perfect for summer vibes.
9. Cassper Nyovest – Rap heavyweight known for his energetic performances.
10. Msaki – Soulful singer-songwriter blending folk and African influences.

12. United Kingdom

"Dua Lipa is the queen of UK pop right now, blending disco and pop in a way that’s taken the world by storm. Stormzy is the face of UK rap and grime, and he’s loved for his activism too. Dave is another massive name in UK rap, with his introspective, politically aware lyrics. Little Simz is on the rise, with her sharp, socially conscious rap. Mabel brings fun, catchy pop hits, and Arlo Parks is known for her deeply emotional indie sound. AJ Tracey is huge in the UK rap scene, with bangers that never miss. Yungblud’s punk-pop style resonates with rebellious Gen Zers, while Headie One’s drill sound is a staple of UK rap. Finally, Anne-Marie’s sweet, feel-good pop rounds out the list."
— Mia, 22, London

Top 10 UK Artists:

1. Dua Lipa – Disco-pop queen with global hits and danceable tracks.
2. Stormzy – Rap and grime star leading UK music with political awareness.
3. Dave – Introspective rapper known for his deep, socially conscious lyrics.
4. Little Simz – Rising star in the UK rap scene with sharp, conscious bars.
5. Mabel – Fun, catchy pop singer with endless chart-toppers.
6. Arlo Parks – Indie artist delivering soulful, emotional songs.
7. AJ Tracey – Rapper with infectious, chart-topping bangers.
8. Yungblud – Punk-pop artist connecting with Gen Z’s rebellious side.
9. Headie One – Drill rapper dominating the UK scene.
10. Anne-Marie – Sweet, feel-good pop star known for her catchy tunes.

13. South Korea

"BTS is obviously still the kings of K-pop, dominating not only Korea but the world. BLACKPINK continues to smash records with their edgy, powerful sound, while IU remains a beloved solo artist for her soft vocals and versatile style. Stray Kids is gaining traction with their experimental, high-energy tracks, and TWICE’s catchy, bubblegum pop keeps them at the top. SEVENTEEN is another K-pop powerhouse, known for their incredible choreography and polished sound. EXO, despite being around for a while, still commands a huge following. ITZY’s girl-crush concept has made them a Gen Z favorite, and Red Velvet’s quirky, genre-blending music continues to impress. Finally, TXT, as the new generation of K-pop, is quickly rising with their storytelling-driven pop."
— Jisoo, 21, Seoul

Top 10 South Korean Artists:

1. BTS – K-pop kings leading the global music revolution.
2. BLACKPINK – Edgy, powerful girl group smashing records worldwide.
3. IU – Solo artist with soft, versatile vocals adored by Gen Z.
4. Stray Kids – Experimental K-pop group gaining global traction.
5. TWICE – Bubblegum pop icons with catchy, fun hits.
6. SEVENTEEN – K-pop group known for intricate choreography and polished tracks.
7. EXO – Long-standing K-pop group with massive influence.
8. ITZY – Girl-crush concept group winning over Gen Z.
9. Red Velvet – Quirky, genre-blending girl group loved for their unique style.
10. TXT – New generation K-pop group with a storytelling-driven pop sound.

14. Poland

"Sanah is absolutely dominating the Polish music scene—her emotional, indie-pop sound resonates deeply with Gen Z. Dawid Podsiadło’s alternative pop-rock is also huge, and he’s known for his poetic lyrics. Taco Hemingway is the king of Polish rap, with his sharp, socially conscious lyrics. Mata is another rising rap star, connecting with younger audiences through his witty, often rebellious tracks. Quebonafide’s experimental, genre-blending style has earned him a massive following. Męskie Granie, a collaborative music project, keeps the indie and alternative scene thriving. Zalewski’s retro-inspired pop-rock brings a fresh take on modern music, and Daria Zawiałow’s unique alt-pop sound is making waves. Margaret’s edgy pop keeps her a favorite among Polish Gen Zers, and Bedoes is rising fast in the Polish rap scene."
— Kasia, 20, Warsaw

Top 10 Polish Artists:

1. Sanah – Emotional indie-pop queen adored by Gen Z in Poland.
2. Dawid Podsiadło – Alternative pop-rock star with poetic, introspective lyrics.
3. Taco Hemingway – Rap king known for his sharp, socially aware bars.
4. Mata – Rising rap star with witty, rebellious tracks.
5. Quebonafide – Experimental rapper blending genres effortlessly.
6. Męskie Granie – Collaborative project supporting the indie and alt scene.
7. Zalewski – Retro-inspired pop-rocker bringing a fresh, modern sound.
8. Daria Zawiałow – Alt-pop artist making waves with her unique style.
9. Margaret – Edgy pop star with an ever-evolving sound.
10. Bedoes – Fast-rising rapper known for his raw, emotional lyrics.

From Olivia Rodrigo’s heartbreak anthems in the U.S. to BTS’s global domination in South Korea, it’s clear that Gen Z’s music scene is a wild, interconnected mix of local flavor and international icons. Across the globe, artists are shaping the soundtracks of young lives with songs that reflect their emotions, struggles, and aspirations. What’s exciting is how each country’s Gen Zers bring their own style while vibing with global trends—from Brazil’s reggaeton-infused beats to Poland’s emotional indie pop. It’s a reminder that even with all our differences, music has this incredible way of bringing people together. Gen Z is redefining music, one playlist at a time.

Stay tuned for more insights into the sounds and stars defining global Gen Z culture, right here at Woke Waves Magazine.

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