MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN has unveiled its star-studded initial lineup of performing artists for its upcoming Grand Ceremony. Set to take place on Saturday, June 13, at the TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO, Japan’s largest music awards event is positioning itself as a premier global hub, bridging domestic talent with the international music industry.
Headlining the first wave of announcements are J-pop heavyweights Kenshi Yonezu and Fujii Kaze. They will share the stage with global powerhouse acts, including MISAMO—the popular sub-unit of K-pop group TWICE—and English singer-songwriter Sam Smith.
The diverse roster showcases a wide range of genres, featuring rising pop outfit HANA, rapper Chanmina, rock mainstays sakanaction, and shoegaze duo Hitsujibungaku. Additionally, the Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra will deliver a collaborative performance alongside an elite trio of special guests: AiNA THE END, TAKUMA (from 10-FEET), and LiSA.
Initial Performer Lineup (As of May 29)
- AiNA THE END
- CHANMINA
- Fujii Kaze
- HANA
- Hitsujibungaku
- Kenshi Yonezu
- LiSA
- MISAMO
- sakanaction
- Sam Smith
- TAKUMA (10-FEET)
- Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra
Organizers have confirmed that more artists will be announced in the weeks leading up to the June 13 event.
The ceremony serves as the anchor for a week-long celebration of modern Japanese music, with a series of concerts and special events scheduled to take place across Tokyo during the week preceding the main show.
Managed by the Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA)—a historic coalition that unites Japan's five major music industry organizations—the awards show is entering its second year. Following its inaugural 2025 debut at the ROHM Theater in Kyoto, the 2026 edition aims to further elevate Asian music on the worldwide stage.
