The 2026 Music Awards Japan (MAJ) is set to unfold on June 13, with a Grand Ceremony that will showcase a historic first overseas guest and a tribute to late singer‑songwriter Eiichi Ohtaki. The event will run across two venues—SGC Hall Ariake and Toyota Arena Tokyo—and will be streamed worldwide on YouTube.

First‑time International Guest Marks Historic Milestone for MAJ

According to the source, the Grand Ceremony will feature a notable return by a major overseas artist making their first appearance in Japan in years, marking the show’s first‑ever international guest. This move signals MAJ’s ambiition to broaden its global reach and to position itself alongside international award shows that routinely feature cross‑border talent.

Hip‑Hop’s 40‑Year Legacy Reimagined in “The Successor” Ceremony

Preceding the main event, the MAJ WEEK will host “The Successor” ceremony, a comprehensive celebration of over four decades of Japanese hip‑hop. Produced by pioneers Kan Takagi and ZEEBRA with new‑generation leader YZERR, the show will bring together foundational acts such as RHYMESTER, King Giddra, and NITRO MICROPHONE UNDERGROUND alongside contemporary scene‑drivers like T‑Pablow, STUTS, PUNPEE, and 165ellow Bucks. Emerging rappers Watson, MaRI, and 3Li165 will also perform, offering a rare glimpse into the genre’s evolution.

Eiichi Ohtaki Tribute Features Archival Vocals and a Star‑Studded Lineup

The 2026 symbol of the Music Awards Japan is the late Eiichi Ohtaki, co‑founder of the legendary band Happy End. The tribute will feature an “archival vocal appearance” using recordings from his active years, with performances by artists personally connected to Ohtaki such as Ginji Ito, Junichi Inagaki , Masamichi Sugi, Shigeru Suzuki, Tortoise Matsumoto, Maki Nomiya, Fumiya Fujii, Minako Yoshida, and Marina Watanabe. According to the report, this segment promises a profound journey into the core of Japanese pop history.

Women’s Empowerment Showcase Highlights Rising International Female Artists

A collaborative concert from Billboard Japan and Spotify will spotlight female artists gaining momentum internationally. The three‑and‑a‑half‑hour showcase will feature ATARASHII GAKKO!, Awich, Hitsujibungaku , and LANA. The show extends beyond entertainment, aligning with ongoing initiatives to support and amplify female creators, carrying a social message that resonates deeply.

Ten‑Day MAJ WEEK Covers Jazz, Anime Music, Enka, Kayokyoku, Indie, and Club Culture

The full MAJ WEEK 2026 program spans ten days and covers a wide spectrum of genres including jazz, anime music, enka and kayokyoku, indie, and club culture, offering a panoramic view of Japanese music. The Grand Ceremony itself will be held on Saturday, June 13, at two venues—SGC Hall Ariake and Toyota Arena Tokyo—and will be streamed live on YouTube for a global audience.