XG shines bright at MTV VMAJ 2025 with two awards and stellar performance

March 22, 2025 - 4:30 PM IST

Hip-hop/R&B-inspired girl group XG set the stage ablaze at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan (VMAJ) on March 19, held at K Arena in Kanagawa. The seven-member group not only delivered a show-stopping live performance but also walked away with two prestigious awards: Best Visual Effects and Performance of the Year. Adding to the celebration, their visionary leader, XGALX CEO and Executive Producer JAKOPS (SIMON), was honored with the newly introduced Best Producer award.

XG shines bright at MTV VMAJ 2025 with two awards and stellar performance

Double Triumph for XG

Before captivating the audience with their performance, XG was recognized for their groundbreaking artistry. The Best Visual Effects award celebrated their innovative music videos, while Performance of the Year underscored their electrifying stage presence. Expressing their gratitude, the members shared, “When it comes to performing, we’ve always valued teamwork and unity above all else, so this means a lot to us!” In true XG fashion, they added a quirky twist: “We believe that aliens reside in every part of us, so we’re going to give our all in this performance!”

JAKOPS (SIMON) Claims Best Producer

The night also marked a milestone for JAKOPS (SIMON), the creative force behind XG’s meteoric rise. Receiving the Best Producer award, he was lauded for his boundary-pushing contributions to the music industry. On stage, XG paid tribute to him, saying, “Congratulations to our producer, JAKOPS (SIMON), on winning Best Producer! We’re always so grateful to have you!” Their heartfelt words sparked thunderous applause from the crowd.

Born in Seattle in 1986 to Japanese-Korean parents, JAKOPS holds triple citizenship—American, Japanese, and Korean. With nearly two decades of experience, he transitioned from being a member of DMTN (DALMATIAN) in 2010 to founding XGALX in 2017. As the mastermind behind XG’s music, visuals, and creative direction, he debuted the group in 2022 as XGALX’s flagship project. His recent work as sound producer for the Anrealage 2025 Show at Paris Fashion Week further showcased his versatility, cementing his reputation as a global creative powerhouse.

A Show-Stopping Performance

XG’s live performance was nothing short of spectacular. They kicked off with WOKE UP, their first all-rap single, which has dominated the Billboard Global Japan Songs Excl. Japan chart for nine consecutive weeks. The track’s viral music video has also topped YouTube’s trending charts in 19 territories, including the U.S. They followed it with IS THIS LOVE, a March 7 single that’s charted on Spotify’s Viral Chart in 13 countries and serves as the theme for Shiseido’s ANESSA global campaign. With their dynamic choreography and commanding presence, XG left the audience in awe.

Red Carpet Glamour

Before the main event, XG turned heads on the MTV VMAJ red carpet, donning archival pieces from Alexander Wang. The collaboration, sparked by the designer’s creative director Alex—a self-proclaimed XG fan—saw the members strut in bold black and silver looks, perfectly embodying the brand’s edgy aesthetic.

XG’s Global Journey Continues

Currently on their first world tour, XG 1st WORLD TOUR ‘The first HOWL’, the group is set to conquer new horizons. Upcoming stops include China (Hangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu) in March, Latin America (São Paulo and Mexico City) in April, and a grand finale at Tokyo Dome. In a historic feat, XG will also become the only Japanese artist to perform at Coachella 2025 this April, solidifying their status as a global sensation.

Also Read: XG to release new song ‘Million Places’ on May 14, tour finale at Tokyo Dome!