As the first artist announced for this special showcase of Japanese hip-hop, Awich—widely regarded as the queen of the genre—takes center stage. Fresh off the release of her U.S. debut single, produced by the legendary RZA and featuring FERG, she’s making bold moves on the global stage.
Last year, Awich became the first Japanese rapper to perform at Coachella, marking a historic moment for Japan’s hip-hop scene. She also solidified her presence at home with a sold-out arena show in Japan, drawing 18,000 fans. Born and raised on the island of Okinawa, her music reflects a rich cultural blend shaped by life among American military communities and her college years in Atlanta. Since her 2006 debut Inner Research, she has released nearly a dozen LPs and EPs, earning a reputation for fearless lyricism, genre-bending creativity, and a powerful presence both on stage and in the studio.
