While TV had the Emmy haul for ¡°Shogun,¡± and ¡°Godzilla¡± finally nabbed an Oscar, Japanese music¡¯s boldest moment this year came on the stage at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California in April.

One of the most influential festivals in the world, J-pop grabbed the attention of a crowd packed with celebrities, influencers and music fans during a Sunday afternoon showcase from Asian-focused music label 88Rising. First, the duo Yoasobi came out and zipped through some of its biggest hits (including 2023¡¯s defining J-pop track, ¡°Idol¡±). But members Lilas Ikuta and Ayase were soon joined by the sailor-suited quartet Atarashii Gakko!, delivering frantic dance moves and an even more madcap series of songs.

Then came a stylistic swerve in the form of Okinawan rapper Awich ¡ª who, at this point, delivers headliner vibes (take note Japanese summer festivals). In turn, she used a chunk of her allotted time to showcase Japan¡¯s hip-hop scene by bringing out JP The Wavy, Yuriyan Retriever and ¡°bad bitches¡± Nene of Yurufuwa Gang, Lana and Mari. Wrapping things up was male pop trio Number_i with a sleekly choreographed set.