The “MAJ”—Asia’s answer to the Grammys—shines a global spotlight on the power of Filipino music.
At the inaugural Music Awards Japan (MAJ), held on May 21–22, 2025 at ROHM Theatre Kyoto, Filipino band Lola Amour received the Special Award for Philippine Popular Music for their hit song Raining In Manila.
Dubbed the “Asian Grammys,” MAJ is a newly established music awards event that honors outstanding musical works from Japan and across Asia. This marks Lola Amour’s first-ever award in Japan, representing a significant milestone in the band’s journey.
An homage to City Pop becomes a cross-Asia hit, bridging cultures through sound.
Released in June 2023, Raining In Manila is a track inspired by 1980s Japanese City Pop.
With its breezy groove and sentimental melody, the song quickly gained attention, amassing tens of millions of streams since its release. Widely used in covers and Reels on TikTok and Instagram, it rapidly spread across the globe.
In the Philippines, the song won four categories at the 2024 AWIT Awards—the country’s equivalent of the Grammys—including Song of the Year, Record of the Year, Best Pop Recording, and Best Parody Recording for its collaboration with Michael V., Waiting Here Sa Pila.
The MAJ award stands as proof that Raining In Manila has resonated far beyond borders.
“Something we never even dreamed of”—a moment that carries the band’s heartfelt hopes.
Due to scheduling conflicts, the band members were unable to attend the ceremony. Instead, their longtime manager Mika Ordoñez traveled to Kyoto to accept the trophy on their behalf.
In an official statement, vocalist Pio Dumayas shared the following:
“Never in our wildest dreams did we imagine being recognized on an international level. It’s truly an honor to receive this award on a Japanese stage in such a meaningful way.”
Raining In Manila was inspired by 1980s City Pop, so being recognized in Japan holds a very special meaning for us.
“To all our friends around the world—and to everyone who inspired this song—thank you!”
Artists from across Asia take home awards—MAJ emerges as a music festival bridging Japan and the rest of the region.
The “Special Award for Philippine Popular Music” was established to celebrate pop music from various countries. Alongside Lola Amour, the following artists were also honored:
•SEVENTEEN (South Korea)
• Jeff Satur (Thailand)
• Zhou Shen (China)
• Salma Salsabil (Indonesia)
• Tùng Dương (Vietnam)
The awards ceremony featured dazzling performances by artists such as Hikaru Utada, Atarashii Gakko!, Number_i, and Creepy Nuts, adding to the event’s vibrant atmosphere.
A free concert celebrating their 9th anniversary with the release of their new single, Misbehave, was also held.
Celebrating their 9th anniversary this year, Lola Amour is set to release their new single Misbehave on May 30.
In addition, the band will hold a free concert for fans at the open-air auditorium in Rizal Park, Manila.
Release Information
Lola Amour – Raining In Manila
Release Date: June 2023
Listen here:https://lolaamour.lnk.to/raininginmanila