The bandMrs. GREEN APPLEwon the grand prize of the 67th edition of Japan Record Award with the song “Darling”, announced on December 30, 2025 at Novo Teatro Nacional in Tóquio. Esse triumph marks the third in a row for the group, following wins with “Que Sera Sera” in 2023 and “Lilac” in 2024.
The feat positions the band as the third in history to achieve three awards in a row, alongside Hamasaki Ayumi and EXILE, and the first as a band. The awards show, organized by Associação of Compositores of Japão and broadcast on TBS, highlighted the track’s impact on the year.
“Darling” serves as the theme song for the NHK special program “Mrs. GREEN APPLE 18祭” and addresses themes such as loneliness, social comparisons and personal acceptance. The composition begins with a piano melody and evolves into a grand arrangement with band and orchestra.
Features of award-winning music
The lyrics, written by the vocalistMotoki Omori, reflects internal conflicts and the search for liberating love. The track accumulated more than 258 million plays on streaming platforms by the end of 2025.
This volume placed her in first place in Oricon’s annual streaming ranking for songs released in the year. Outras tracks from the group also recorded billions of cumulative reproductions, surpassing 110 billion in the domestic total.
- Early piano that builds gradual emotion.
- Arrangement with orchestra for epic scale.
- Message of self-confidence and release of emotional emptiness.
- Success in karaoke charts and downloads.
Trajectory in the anniversary year
The group celebrated 10 years of debut in 2025 with an intense schedule. Omori, responsible for all lyrics and compositions, released six consecutive singles, three of which surpassed 100 million streams each.
The band consolidated national status with consistent hits. Membros individuals have expanded activities, including acting in dramas and TV shows.
Outstanding live activities
The live performances highlighted the year. In July, the open-air concert on the pier at Yamashita in Yokohama attracted more than 350,000 people, including live viewing.
The first tour through the five big domes, from October to December, mobilized 550 thousand fans in 12 shows. The production included giant structures and more than 100 participants on stage.
Phases of the group’s career
The trajectory is divided into distinct phases. “Phase 1” covered the formation until July 2020, followed by a hiatus.
“Phase 2” began in March 2022 and ends in 2025, marked by a triumphant return and consecutive awards. From 2026 onwards, “Phase 3” enters, focusing on preserving achievements and valuing the current moment.
Reactions after the award
The members expressed gratitude on stage.Koto Wakaihighlighted the support received over the 10 years of his career.
Ryoka Fujisawaemphasized the joy of continuing to make music. Omori reflected on the meaning of the third championship and promised continued dedication to creations.
The band is preparing for the 76th edition of Kohaku Uta Gassen on December 31st, where they will act as grand finalists for the first time. Essa presentation closes Fase 2 and opens the door to new chapters.
Legacy and expressive numbers
The year consolidated Mrs. GREEN APPLE as a reference in contemporary Japanese music. Total streams surpassed historic marks, with 31 tracks exceeding 100 million plays.
Parallel activities, such as international concerts at Coreia, expanded its reach. The group maintains a balance between creative innovation and connection with the public.