The 67th edition of Japan Record Awards takes place this Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Novo Teatro Nacional in Tóquio. The live broadcast on TBS starts at 5:30 pm local Japanese time and lasts four and a half hours, with a presentation by Anshin Ichiro, the station’s anchor, and actress Haruna Kawaguchi.
The event rewards the main achievements of Japanese music throughout the year. The nominees for the main prize compete for Japan Record Award, while other categories already have confirmed winners.
Several artists perform live throughout the night. The ceremony highlights the diversity of the current music scene, with established names and revelations.
Nominated for outstanding work award
Ten songs compete for the night’s grand prize, selected for impact on the charts and cultural relevance. The nominees reflect varied genres, from pop to idol and international influences.
- ILLIT with “Almond Chocolate”
- M!LK with “Ii Jan”
- FRUITS ZIPPER with “Kagami”
- Aina the End with “Kakumei Douchu – On The Way”
- Ikuta Lilas with “Koi Kaze”
- Mrs. GREEN APPLE with “Darling”
- CANDY TUNE with “Baibai FIGHT!”
- Niihama Leon with “Fun! Fun! Fun!”
- Junretsu with “Futari Dake no Himitsu”
- BE:FIRST with “Muchu”
These tracks have accumulated millions of streams and high positions in Japanese charts. The final choice takes place during the live broadcast.
Mrs. GREEN APPLE seeks third consecutive triumph. Grupos like BE:FIRST and ILLIT represent the strength of K-pop in the local market.
Revelations and best newcomer award
Four artists compete for the title of best new talent of the year. The category values promising debuts with sales and digital engagement.
Nominees include:
- CUTIE STREET with “Kawaii Dake Ja Desuka?”
- SHOW-WA & MATSURI with “Bokura no Kuchibee”
- HANA with “Blue Jeans”
- BOYNEXTDOOR featuring “Kyou Dake I LOVE YOU” (Japanese version)
HANA emerges as a strong candidate after a good performance at the Billboard Japan Hot 100. BOYNEXTDOOR reinforces the presence of Korean acts at the event.
The winner receives the Most Excellent New Artist Award at the ceremony. Esses groups perform special live performances.
Special categories and recognitions
Other awards honor specific contributions to the Japanese music industry. The award for best vocal performance goes to Keisuke Yamauchi with “Yami ni Goyoujin”.
- Special Album Award: “Prema” by Fujii Kaze
- International Special Prize: Ado with “Aishite Aishite Aishite / Sing” and &TEAM with “Go in
- Special prizes: Trilha from the film “Kokuho” by Marihiko Hara, Takashi Hosokawa, Seiko Matsuda and
Composition, lyric and arrangement awards recognize behind-the-scenes creators. Da-iCE wins in composition, =LOVE in lyrics.
Planning Awards and Collaborations
The planning category highlights innovative projects and striking collaborations. AKB48 performs with former members Atsuko Maeda and Minami Takahashi on “Oh my Pumpkin!” and “Koisuru Fortune Cookie”.
Other winners include:
- Rockon Social Club with Masaaki Sakai
- Kamenashi Kazuya in partnership
- Nogizaka46 with “Same Numbers”
- TUBE and FRUITS ZIPPER in “Family Summer Vacation”
These projects combine different generations and styles. Live performances promise moments of nostalgia and innovation.
History and relevance of the event
Japan Record Awards has existed since 1959 and is organized by Japan Composers Association with support from TBS. The award considers physical sales, streams and cultural impact.
The 2025 edition reflects the globalization of Japanese music with international nominees. The event attracts millions of viewers annually on Japão.
Live performances constitute the highlight of the broadcast. Artistas like Yamauchi Keisuke prepare themed shows for the occasion.
Final preparations for broadcast
TBS carries out production directly from Novo Teatro Nacional to Shibuya. Plataformas as TVer offer simultaneous streaming on Japão.
Presenters lead the night for the third time in a row. The narration is done by John Kabira.
The program includes interviews and behind-the-scenes between performances. The reveal of the grand prize marks the climax of the ceremony.
