Hiphop/R&B-inspired girl group XG continues to make waves in the global music scene, taking home two prestigious awards at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan (VMAJ) 2025: Best Visual Effects and Performance of the Year. Meanwhile, XG visionary leader, Executive Producer JAKOPS (SIMON), was also honored with the first-ever Best Producer award.
XG Delivers Show-Stopping Performance at MTV VMAJ
Held at the iconic K Arena in Kanagawa, XG lit up the stage with a breathtaking performance of their viral hit “WOKE UP,” their first all-rap track that’s held the #1 spot on Billboard’s Global Japan Songs Excl. Japan chart for nine consecutive weeks. The girls also performed their latest single, “IS THIS LOVE.” It gained international momentum with placements on Spotify’s Viral Charts in 13 countries and as the soundtrack for Shiseido’s global ANESSA campaign.
XG Shares the Spotlight with Their Fans at MTV VMAJ 2025
Before stepping onto the stage, XG was already celebrating two significant wins.
“When it comes to performing, we’ve always valued teamwork and unity above all else, so this means a lot to us!”
XG.
In true XG style, they added with a wink:
“We believe that aliens reside in every part of us, so we’re going to give our all in this performance!”
XG.
Their electric energy carried through the night, leaving fans and industry insiders alike in awe.
JAKOPS (SIMON) Wins “Best Producer” Award
Behind XG’s meteoric rise is JAKOPS (SIMON) — the creative powerhouse, CEO, and Executive Producer of XGALX, recognized with the newly introduced “Best Producer” award.
“Congratulations to our producer, JAKOPS (SIMON), on winning Best Producer! We’re always so grateful to have you!”
XG.
The audience erupted in applause, honoring his leadership and vision.
Who Is JAKOPS (SIMON)?
Born in Seattle in 1986, JAKOPS (real name SIMON) is of Japanese-Korean descent and holds American, Japanese, and Korean nationalities. His career spans nearly two decades across the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. From debuting with DMTN (DALMATIAN) in 2010 to launching XGALX in 2017, JAKOPS has consistently redefined global music production.
He not only trains and develops XG members but also shapes their sound, visuals, and brand identity. In 2022, he introduced the world to XG, a seven-member girl group blending fierce rap, genre-blending sound, and global flair. His recent work includes sound production for the Anrealage 2025 Show at Paris Fashion Week, further cementing his reputation as a cross-industry innovator.
XG Slays the Red Carpet in Alexander Wang
Adding to the night’s glamour, XG turned heads at the MTV VMAJ red carpet pre-show, wearing bold black and silver ensembles from Alexander Wang’s archive collection. The collaboration came at the request of creative director Alex, a self-professed fan of the group. The girls brought their signature edge to the carpet, embodying fashion and fierceness.
What’s Next for XG? Global Domination
XG is currently on their “1st WORLD TOUR: ‘The first HOWL’,” with upcoming stops across China (Hangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu) and Latin America (São Paulo, Mexico City) in March and April. The journey will culminate in a grand finale at Tokyo Dome.
XG to Perform at Coachella 2025
Making history yet again, XG will be the only Japanese artist performing at Coachella 2025, one of the biggest and most influential music festivals in the U.S. This marks a significant leap for the group as they solidify their place on the global stage.
Stay tuned for more from XG as they continue to break barriers and redefine the global music scene.
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