TOKYO, JAPAN – J-pop band Mrs. GREEN APPLE cemented their place in Japanese music history last night, securing the prestigious Grand Prix at the 67th Japan Record Awards for the third consecutive year. The ceremony, held at the New National Theatre, Tokyo, also notably highlighted the continued influence of established and rising stars across the music spectrum, with former AKB48 member Rino Sashihara earning a songwriting accolade.
The renowned music honors event, broadcast live on Wednesday, saw Mrs. GREEN APPLE capture the top prize for their track “Darling.” This victory follows their successes with “Que SeraSera” in 2023 and “Lilac” in 2024, positioning them as only the third act ever to achieve a three-peat Grand Prix win, joining the ranks of pop icon Ayumi Hamasaki and vocal group EXILE.
Upon receiving the award, the three band members visibly conveyed their profound emotion, bowing deeply to the tearful audience. Lead vocalist Motoki Ohmori underscored the significance of the achievement in his acceptance speech. “I truly value the meaning and the profound reason behind this third consecutive win,” Ohmori stated. “I pledge to continue creating music with sincerity and to strive diligently in my work.”
Recognitions for Songwriting and Emerging Talent
The evening also celebrated significant behind-the-scenes contributions. Rino Sashihara, a former mainstay of AKB48, was recognized with the Lyricist Award for her work on “=LOVE’s” song, “Kimi no Tame no, Tokubetsu” (Becoming Your Special One). Sashihara, who created the ten-member idol group, took the opportunity to acknowledge her mentor, veteran producer Yasushi Akimoto, who has previously won the same award.
“Hearing Teacher Akimoto say, ‘Congratulations, Teacher Sashihara,’ filled me with immense honor,” she said, expressing deep gratitude for his guidance.
The Composition Award went to Da-iCE members Taiki Kudo and Sota Hanamura for their summer anthem, “Nonfictions,” which served as the theme song for the annual Summer Koshien high school baseball tournament. Kudo expressed pride that their creative vision was recognized: “Although we are primarily a dance and vocal group, having our creative philosophy recognized is truly a great honor.”
Global and Domestic Shifts
The awards provided a snapshot of the industry’s current landscape, blending established domestic acts with globalized influences. HANA, a seven-member girl group, was named Best New Artist, signaling their rapid rise.
Meanwhile, the International Music Special Award was presented to &TEAM, a Japanese boy group under the South Korean HYBE umbrella (home agency to BTS). &TEAM marked a significant milestone this year, achieving the distinction of being the first Japanese artist/group to record million-selling sales in both Japan and South Korea, coinciding with their first world tour.
In other categories, veteran Enka singer Keisuke Yamauchi received the Best Singer award. Both Nogizaka46 and AKB48 took home Planning Awards, marking their return to the main stage after four years. AKB48, currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, orchestrated a reunion performance featuring its members past and present, including former stars Atsuko Maeda, Minami Takahashi, Haruna Kojima, and Rino Sashihara, evoking strong nostalgia among long-time fans.
The ceremony itself was hosted by seasoned broadcaster Shin’ichirō Azumi and popular actress Haruna Kawaguchi, who attracted attention for her multiple wardrobe changes, including a breathtaking sheer, backless black evening gown.
The 67th Japan Record Awards underscored a dynamic era for Japanese music, where continuous innovation, like that demonstrated by Mrs. GREEN APPLE, coexists with honoring musical heritage and embracing international collaboration.
