羊文学, the Japanese alternative rock duo of vocalist/guitarist 塩塚モエカ and bassist 河西ゆりか, claimed two major awards at MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026 on June 13. The band won Best Alternative Artist and Best Alternative Song at the ceremony, marking back-to-back recognition from the music industry's top honor.

The win was particularly meaningful for the pair. "We were already grateful to be invited back this year," 河西ゆりか told press after the ceremony. "We didn't find out the results until the announcement, which was a surprise in itself. We never expected to win two years in a row, so we're full of amazement and gratitude."

MAJ (MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN) is a newly established awards program backed by five major Japanese music industry organizations. Launched in 2025, it aims to celebrate music while connecting Japan to the global stage. This year's edition expanded to 78 categories, with winners determined through final voting on nominated artists and works.

羊文学 has built steady momentum since their 2020 major label debut under F.C.L.S. Their 2022 album our hope won the prestigious CD Shop Award, and they've since released multiple projects including their fifth full-length album Don't Laugh It Off in October 2025. The band gained additional visibility when "more than words," their contribution to Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2's ending theme, earned recognition at last year's MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN.

Vocalist 塩塚モエカ emphasized the significance of receiving an award with international reach. "This is a Japanese award being sent out to the world," she explained. "We perform overseas frequently, so it would be wonderful if people there learn about us through this recognition."

With their dual wins and growing international profile—including recent Asia and Europe tours—羊文学 continues to establish themselves as one of Japan's most compelling alternative acts.