Review: Music Awards Japan, the Japanese Grammy's Launch with Unprecedented Scale and Spirit
Live from Kyoto: Winners List, On-Site Reports, and Red Carpet Highlights
By: Ayaka Ozaki May. 31, 2025
MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN : The inaugural edition of MAJ hailed as the “Japanese Grammy Awards”—marked a groundbreaking moment in the nation’s music history. Jointly launched by five major Japanese music industry organizations, the award aims to celebrate the diversity and future of music culture from Japan to the world, establishing itself as one of the largest international music awards in Asia.
The first-ever ceremony was held at the prestigious ROHM Theatre Kyoto, a venue steeped in history and tradition. On May 21, the Premiere Ceremony kicked off the two-day celebration, followed by the Grand Ceremony on May 22, where the winners of six major categories were announced. A dazzling red carpet event was also held, featuring nominated artists and high-profile guests from Japan and abroad.
Actor Masaki Suda served as a host for the Grand Ceremony, while top-tier artists such as Mrs. GREEN APPLE and Eikichi Yazawa delivered spectacular live performances. The official hashtag #MAJ2025 trended for hours across social media, fueling global buzz and excitement.
This feature delivers in-depth coverage across all 62 award categories, highlighting standout artists and moments witnessed by the reporter during two days of on-site reporting in Kyoto—from red carpet interviews to unforgettable stage performances.
MAJ Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s
MAJ 2025 Opening Performance
An electrifying collaborative set by 18 top artists—including Takashi Hosokawa and Perfume—launched MAJ with grandeur, setting the tone for a historic celebration.
[Want to see more exclusive photos from MAJ? Follow us on Instagram and X for behind-the-scenes content!]
Table of Contents
I. Awards and Nominations by Artist with Acceptance Speeches
• Mrs. GREEN APPLE
• Creepy Nuts
• YOASOBI
• Fujii Kaze
• Number_i
• Hikaru Utada
• Eikichi Yazawa
• CHANMINA
• ATARASHII GAKKO!
• Snow Man
• WEST.
• FRUITS ZIPPER
• Kenshi Yonezu
• Hitsujibungaku
• tuki.
• AI
• Awich
II. On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
• Mrs. GREEN APPLE
• YOASOBI
• Fujii Kaze
• Eikichi Yazawa
• Creepy Nuts
• CHANMINA
• AI × Awich × NENE × MaRI
III. Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
• Kento Nakajima
• Shunichi Tokura, Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs
• YOASOBI
• ATARASHII GAKKO!
• FRUITS ZIPPER
• CUTIE STREET
• Kocchi no Kento
• Number_i
• NiziU
• CHANMINA
• Nogizaka46
• Mrs. GREEN APPLE
• Fujii Kaze
• AI
• Creepy Nuts
• Masaki Suda
IV. MAJ Changed Japanese Music History — Looking Ahead to Global Impact
YOASOBI
See YOASOBI on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Awards Received
1. Top Global Hit from Japan – “Idol” [Presenter: Shunichi Tokura, Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs]
2. Best Anime Song – “Idol”
3. Best Music Video – “Idol”
4. Special Award: Song of the Year for Creators presented by JASRAC – Ayase “Idol”
Top Global Hit from Japan – Acceptance Speech
ikura and Ayase exchanged astonished glances before stepping forward. Speaking about how “Idol” was born from the anime 【OSHI NO KO】, ikura said, “We’re incredibly happy to receive this award through a project that embodied YOASOBI’s unique way of transforming stories into music.” She added, “We want to keep cherishing the joy and excitement we felt when we first encountered music. We hope to continue being a group that sparks excitement in our listeners through playful creativity.”
Other Nominations
1. Song of the Year – “Idol”
2. Artist of the Year
3. Best Japanese Song – “Idol”
4. Best Japanese Dance Pop Song – “Idol”
5. Best Japanese Dance Pop Artist
6. Best Viral Song – “Idol”
7. Top Japanese Song in Asia – “Idol”
8. Top Japanese Song in Europe – “Idol”
9. Top Japanese Song in Latin America – “Idol”
10. Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japanese Song powered by Spotify – “Idol”
11. Best Japanese Song Artist
On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Click here to read more
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos
Click here to view
Fujii Kaze
See Fujii Kaze on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Awards Received
1. Album of the Year – LOVE ALL SERVE ALL [Presenter: Yutaka Matsushige]
2. Best Cross-Border Collaboration Song – “Feelin' Go(o)d”
3. Best Japanese Singer-Songwriter
Album of the Year ー Acceptance Speech
With his hand on his head in disbelief, Kaze stepped onto the stage saying, “Is this really okay…?” as he accepted the ruby. Humbly receiving the award, he shared, “This album was made with so much love. I hope everyone can find a way to share the love that resides in their own hearts, in whatever form that may be.”
Other Nominations
1. Song of the Year – “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing)”
2. Artist of the Year
3. Top Global Hit from Japan – “Shinunoga E-Wa”
4. Best Japanese Song – “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing)”
5~8. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Song – “Kirari,” “Shinunoga E-Wa,” “Hana,” “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing)”
9. Best Music Video – “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing)”
10~11. Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japanese Song powered by Spotify – “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing),” “Hana”
12. Best Japanese Song Artist
13. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Artist
14. Best Japanese Singer-Songwriter Song – “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing)”
On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Click here to read more
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Click here to view
Number_i
See Number_i on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Awards Received
1. Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japanese Song powered by Spotify – “GOAT”
2. Special Award: Oshi-Katsu Request Artist of the Year powered by USEN
Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japanese Song powered by Spotify ー Acceptance Speech
Yuta Kishi expressed his heartfelt emotion, saying, “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” and added, “We’ll continue striving so that even those who don’t yet know us can discover and enjoy our music.”
Other Nominations
1. New Artist of the Year
2. Best Dance Performance – “GOAT”
3~4. Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japanese Song powered by Spotify – “BON,” “INZM”
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Click here to view
Hikaru Utada
Awards Received
1. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Artist
2. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Song – “Automatic”
Other Nominations
1. Album of the Year – SCIENCE FICTION
2. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Song – “First Love”
3. Best Japanese Singer-Songwriter
4. Best Revival Hit Song – “Hikari”
5. Best Cross-Border Collaboration Song – “Naniirodemonai Hana (A Flower of No Color)”
Performance (Pre-Recorded)
Eikichi Yazawa
Award Received
1. MAJ Timeless Echo [Presenter: Kazuyoshi Miura]
Acceptance Speech
“Fantastic! I feel great! I’ve been singing for almost 50 years, but this might be my first music award… I’m truly happy,” Eikichi said with a sense of fulfillment. When asked for a message to fellow artists, he encouraged them, “Everyone, keep going! Do it for 50 years!” and left the stage to thunderous applause.
On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Click here to read more
CHANMINA
See CHANMINA on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Nominations
1. Best Japanese Hip Hop/Rap Song – “B-List”
2. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Song – “Harenchi”
3. Best Japanese Hip Hop/Rap Artist
4. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Artist
On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Click here to read more
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos
Click here to view
ATARASHII GAKKO!
See ATARASHII GAKKO! on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Awards Received
1. Best Dance Performance – “Otona Blue”
2. Best Japanese Dance Pop Artist
Other Nominations
1. Best Japanese Dance Pop Song – “Otona Blue”
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos
Click here to view
Snow Man
Award Received
1. Best Idol Artist/Group [Presenter: Kyoko Koizumi]
Other Nominations
1. Best Idol Culture Song – “LOVE TRIGGER”
WEST.
Award Received
FRUITS ZIPPER
See FRUITS ZIPPER on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Award Received
1. Best Idol Culture Song – “Watashi no ichiban kawaii tokoro”
Other Nominations
1. New Artist of the Year
2. Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japanese Song powered by Spotify – “Watashi no ichiban kawaii tokoro”
3. Best Idol Artist/Group
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Click here to view
Kenshi Yonezu
Award Received
1. Top Japanese Song in Asia – “Lemon”
Other Nominations
1. Album of the Year – “LOST CORNER”
2. Best Japanese Song – “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka!
3. Top Japanese Song in Europe – “KICK BACK”
4. Top Japanese Song in North America – “KICK BACK”
5. Best of Listeners’ Choice: Japan Song powered by Spotify – “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka!”
6. Best Japanese Singer-Songwriter
7. Best Japanese Song Artist
8. Best Japanese Singer-Songwriter Song – “Sayonara, Mata Itsuka!
Hitsujibungaku
Award Received
1. Best Japanese Alternative Artist
2. Best Japanese Alternative Song ー "more than words"
Other Nominations
1. Best Radio-Break Song ー "more than words"
2. Best Japanese Alternative Song ー "Burning"
tuki.
Award Received
1. New Artist of the Year [Presenter: Mao Asada]
Other Nomination
1. Best Japanese Singer-Songwriter Song – “Bansanka”
AI
See AI on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Nomination
1. Best Japanese R&B/Contemporary Song – “Story”
On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Click here to read more
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Click here to view
Awich
Nomination
1. Best Japanese Hip Hop/Rap Artist
On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Click here to read more
Exclusive Red Carpet Photos
II. On-the-Ground Performance Report from Kyoto
Mrs. GREEN APPLE
“Darling”
The moment the stage lit up, Motoki’s crystalline voice filled the air, enveloping the venue with its unfiltered clarity and power—a level of vocal command only possible in a live setting. At the midpoint of the song, 50 string musicians dramatically emerged from the back of the stage. The audience collectively held its breath in silence, then surrendered to the wave of music that followed. Every element, from the meticulously constructed arrangement to the emotive fluctuations in Motoki’s vocals, underscored why the band deserved the title of “Best Artist of the Year.” The performance was elegant, dynamic, and unforgettable.
→ See Mrs. GREEN APPLE on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
YOASOBI
“PLAYERS”
Set in a “game room” that was reportedly crafted after extensive discussions with the creative team, the performance began like a scene out of a storybook. As ikura and Ayase appeared on the stage, the immersive set transformed into a living narrative. When ikura left the “room” and sang directly to the audience with the lyric “Now retry, now retry,” a surge of unity and excitement swept through the venue. A seamless fusion of dramatic staging and musical precision, the performance was a vivid expression of YOASOBI’s signature storytelling style.
→ See YOASOBI on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Fujii Kaze
“Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing)”
Opening the second half of the ceremony, Kaze delivered a minimalist and emotionally charged rendition of “Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing).” Sitting at the piano bathed in soft white lighting, his voice carried a poignant vulnerability that revealed the depths of his inner world. In stark contrast to his outgoing public persona, this introspective performance showcased his remarkable sensitivity and emotional range, leaving a lasting impression.
→ See Fujii Kaze on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Eikichi Yazawa
Making a grand entrance in a luxury car, Eikichi walked onto the stage to thunderous applause. With a swift kick, he sent his white stand microphone twirling into the air—an iconic move befitting a living legend.
As the crowd tossed red and white towels in sync with the beat, the entire venue reached its peak energy, amplifying the sense of unity.
“YES MY LOVE”
His heartfelt delivery of this ballad brought the audience—including the crew in the backstage—to their feet. The space itself seemed to become an extension of Eikichi’s charisma and legacy.
Creepy Nuts
“Bling-Bang-Bang-Born”
Fresh off an astonishing nine-award sweep, Creepy Nuts took the stage with the commanding energy of true champions. DJ Matsunaga’s razor-sharp turntable skills and R-Shitei’s rapid-fire flow formed a sonic whirlwind that electrified the crowd. Their performance, with its masterful control of tempo and dynamics, radiated confidence and technical excellence.
CHANMINA
“Harenchi”
Making a dramatic entrance atop a suspended aerial hoop, CHANMINA transformed the venue into a dreamy, circus-like realm. The blend of live vocals with aerial performance made for a breathtaking opener.
“KING”
With precise chair choreography and seamless interaction with her dancers, she exuded both sensuality and strength.
“BIJIN”
Her husky yet transparent high notes brought out the song’s delicate beauty.
Singing while running on a treadmill, she delivered a physically demanding performance filled with urgency and drive.
Each of her performances displayed exceptional stagecraft, adding a theatrical dimension that elevated MAJ into a world-class event.
→ See CHANMINA on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
AI × Awich × NENE × MaRI
“Not So Different Remix feat. Awich”
AI’s fluent English and soulful vocals resonated deeply with the audience. Her duet with Awich delivered a powerful message of peace with perfect vocal harmony.
The raw, confrontational lyrics hit straight to the heart, earning audible gasps and cheers from the crowd.
With a bold set design including a couch and a fierce four-woman rap relay, the performance proudly celebrated female empowerment and aesthetic pride.
→ See AI on Red Carpet! [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
III. Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Just before the Grand Ceremony on Day 2, the red carpet was rolled out in full glamour, with a dazzling lineup of artists making their appearance. From celebrated icons to rising stars—including many not featured in this article such as Nogizaka46—the event welcomed an array of notable figures. Exclusive photos of these appearances, along with exclusive comments from the attendees, will be unveiled soon. Be sure to follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Update on June 5: [Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s]
Artists to Be Featured
*Please note: subject to change.
• Kento Nakajima
• Shunichi Tokura, Commissioner of the Agency for Cultural Affairs
• YOASOBI
• ATARASHII GAKKO!
• FRUITS ZIPPER
• CUTIE STREET
• Kocchi no Kento
• Number_i
• NiziU
• CHANMINA
• Nogizaka46
• Mrs. GREEN APPLE
• Fujii Kaze
• AI
• Creepy Nuts
• Masaki Suda
MAJ Exclusive Red Carpet Photos & Comments
Interview: Red Carpet Moments with Number_i and Japan’s Global Music Icons the Japanese Grammy’s
IV. MAJ Changed Japanese Music History — Looking Ahead to Global Impact
At a scale and standard worthy of being called “Japan’s Grammy Awards,” the inaugural edition of MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN boldly redefined what a Japanese music award show can be. The collaboration of five major industry organizations—crossing over genres, generations, and borders—created a platform that not only celebrated diversity in music, but also inspired new possibilities for artists, fans, and industry professionals alike.
The ceremony was further elevated by the presence of distinguished presenters such as Koji Yakusho, Kyoko Koizumi, Kazuyoshi Miura, and Shunichi Tokura, all of whom have made indelible marks in their respective fields. Their appearance underscored the prestige and cultural significance of MAJ as a landmark celebration of the arts.
Equally impactful were the live performances, which brought MAJ’s unique spirit to life. Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s majestic orchestral arrangement, Fujii Kaze’s poignant and serene expression, and CHANMINA’s dynamic show—featuring aerial stunts and a live performance on a treadmill—demonstrated that each act was a carefully curated “show” that held the audience spellbound from beginning to end.
The enthusiastic reactions from attendees, the trending presence on social media, and the electric atmosphere on-site all affirmed that MAJ transcended expectations for a first-time event. It embodied a powerful message: Japan’s music culture is ready to be shared with the world—boldly and sincerely.
Through these two extraordinary days, we were reminded of music’s innate ability to transcend borders, connect values, and illuminate an era. And from this very stage, a new chapter has begun—one in which Japanese music will soar even further across the globe, with artists expanding their horizons beyond language and culture. A day when Japanese sounds draw new lines on the global music map is surely on the horizon.
MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN—an opening chapter to a new era in Japanese music history.
Photo Credit :[©CEIPA /MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN2025]
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