It was announced that Bi-ray, the four-member girl vocal group produced by YOSHIKI, received the Next Generation Rising Star Award at the 116th Anniversary Dinner & Gala hosted by the Japan America Society of Southern California (JASSC), held in Los Angeles on October 16. While Bi-ray appeared via video message, producer YOSHIKI returned to Los Angeles at the strong request of the organizers to accept the award on their behalf. The award presentation was also featured on KTLA, Los Angeles’ leading television station, the following day.
This award category is especially significant, honoring individuals and groups who represent the future of U.S.-Japan relations - emerging leaders and artists whose work fosters cultural and diplomatic bridges between the two nations. This year’s gala also honored Frank Buckley, the anchor of KTLA Morning News, for his longstanding contributions to mutual understanding and cultural exchange. Past recipients of the International Citizenship Award include MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani. Among such distinguished company, Bi-ray’s recognition as a representative of the next generation drew considerable attention.
The ceremony, held during a formal dinner that brought together government officials, business leaders, cultural figures, and artists from both Japan and the U.S., served as a symbolic platform for strengthening U.S.-Japan relations on the West Coast.
YOSHIKI’s appearance sparked excitement among attendees, with many Japanese and American VIPs rushing over, turning the moment into an impromptu autograph session. At the request of the organizers, YOSHIKI gave a surprise performance of his iconic song “Endless Rain,” deeply moving the audience and adding a touch of elegance to the evening.
Bi-ray made their debut in June 2025 with “Butterfly,” a song written and composed by YOSHIKI. It was chosen as the theme for the Hollywood action-comedy film BRIDE HARD (starring Rebel Wilson and directed by Simon West). The music video has surpassed 10 million views on YouTube and received acclaim from international audiences. The song has also been spotlighted by major U.S. music publications, including Rolling Stone and SPIN, solidifying Bi-ray’s emergence as a global pop act.
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Before their official debut, Bi-ray performed the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” at an official MLB game at Dodger Stadium in April 2025. It was a rare honor for a new group, and their poised, powerful performance drew widespread attention. The invitation had initially been extended to YOSHIKI, in recognition of his past achievements—including performing both the U.S. and Japanese national anthems at the 2025 MLB season opener in Japan. However, YOSHIKI advocated for Bi-ray to take the spotlight, helping make their performance a reality.
Experiences like these on the global stage likely contributed to Bi-ray receiving the Rising Star Award. YOSHIKI expressed his pride, saying, “It’s an honor to produce such talented artists, and I’m truly happy to witness this moment.” He went on to share his hopes and expectations for the group’s future. Just months after their debut, this award serves as proof that Bi-ray has already achieved international recognition, with even greater accomplishments to come.
Bi-ray- Related Links
Official Site: https://bi-ray.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Bi_RayOfficial
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biray_official
X: https://x.com/Bi_RayOfficial
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bi_ray_official
YOSHIKI Official Site: https://www.yoshiki.net/
YOSHIKI YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/yoshikiofficial
YOSHIKI Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoshikiofficial/
