JP THE WAVY, a rapper representing Japan and making his mark on the global stage, has won the “JAPAN CIGAR AWARD 2026”

Highly praised for his work that transcends the boundaries of music, art, and fashion, as well as his passion for cigar culture

2026.10.19 14:45

一般社団法人日本葉巻協会

The Japan Cigar Association (JCA) held the “JAPAN CIGAR AWARD 2026” awards ceremony on Saturday, October 10th, 2026, held the “JAPAN CIGAR AWARD 2026” ceremony at “MADURO” inside the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, where the award was presented to rapper JP THE WAVY of PMG Japan.

This award recognizes his achievements as an artist on the global stage, his strong support from the younger generation, and his unique aesthetic sensibility and refined style as a cigar aficionado.

写真右から、一般社団法人日本葉巻協会(JCA)代表理事・辻厚成氏、駐日ドミニカ共和国特命全権大使・エドワード・アニバル・ペレス・レジェス閣下、駐日キューバ共和国特命全権大使・ヒセラ・ベアトリス・ガルシア・リベラ閣下、「JAPAN CIGAR AWARD 2026」受賞者・JP THE WAVY氏、ミス・シガー・ジャパン2026のアナ・パウラ・マツモト氏、S.T. DUPONT Japon代表取締役社長・向井透氏。 photo by Kazumi Watanabe

Pictured from right to left: Mr. Kosei Tsuji, Representative Director of the Japan Cigar Association (JCA);

His Excellency Mr. Edward Aníbal Pérez Reyes, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Dominican Republic to Japan; Her Excellency Ms. Gisela Beatriz García Rivera, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to Japan;

“JAPAN CIGAR AWARD 2026” winner JP THE WAVY, Miss Cigar Japan 2026 Ana Paula Matsumoto, and Toru Mukai, President and CEO of S.T. DUPONT Japon. Photo by Kazumi Watanabe

■Recognition for Activities Spanning Music, Art, and Fashion

JP THE WAVY is one of the leading rappers in the Japanese hip-hop scene. After a career as a dancer, he gained widespread attention in 2017 when his song “Cho Wavy De Gomenne (Sorry for Being So Wavy)” went viral on the internet and social media.

Combining a sense of rhythm honed through dance with a unique musicality and a sophisticated fashion sense, his expression and style extend beyond music to influence fashion and culture as well.

He has collaborated with artists from around the world and performed overseas on numerous occasions; in 2021, he contributed to the soundtrack for the movie *Fast & Furious: Jet Break*. Furthermore, he signed with “PMG Japan,” the Japanese branch of the international music group Pacific Music Group, and is expanding his activities on the global stage.

His work as part of the music unit “MNNK Bro. (Mononoke Brothers)” with contemporary artist Takashi Murakami has also garnered acclaim. The unit was formed after Murakami commissioned JP THE WAVY to create the theme song for his solo exhibition “Takashi Murakami: Mononoke Kyoto.”In 2025, he produced the track “LV MURAKAMI” to coincide with the collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Murakami, demonstrating his commitment to creating expressions that bridge music, contemporary art, and fashion.

In addition to these activities, the JCA also took note of JP THE WAVY’s appreciation for cigars and his approach to enjoying their appeal through his own sensibilities. JCA recognized the connection between his aesthetic sensibility and cigar culture—which values not only the aroma and flavor of cigars but also the slow passage of time and conversation with others. He received this award as a figure who bridges the sensibilities of those who have long been familiar with this culture and those of a new generation.

■ Ambassadors from various countries attended to celebrate the award

At the awards ceremony, JCA Representative Director Kosei Tsuji presented JP THE WAVY with a certificate of commendation and a trophy.In addition to cigars presented by various cigar brands, Mr. Toru Mukai, President and CEO of S.T. DUPONT Japon—a special sponsor—presented luxury lighters and other items from the brand.

Her Excellency Ms. Gisela Beatriz García Rivera, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to Japan, delivered a toast, and His Excellency Mr. Edward Aníbal Pérez Reyes, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Dominican Republic to Japan, was also in attendance. Together with distinguished guests from various countries, they congratulated JP THE WAVY on his award.

■JP THE WAVY’s Acceptance Speech

“I never imagined that a rapper like me would receive an award that has been given to so many distinguished figures in the past, so I am truly honored.

I first discovered the appeal of cigars thanks to VERBAL, a senior figure I deeply respect, who introduced me to them.

I realized that cigars aren’t just about enjoying the smoke—they’re a culture that encompasses the time, the space, and the conversations with friends—and I thought that was truly wonderful.

I still have a lot to learn and don’t have the deep knowledge that many of you do, but I hope to continue enjoying the depth of cigars and their culture in my own way.

Thank you so much for this wonderful award!”

JP THE WAVY氏　photo by Kazumi Watanabe