From Japan to the World: Okinawan Rapper Awich Makes U.S. Debut at SummerStage
- Anderson Longenecker
- Sep 14
- 3 min read
Crowned the queen of Japanese hip hop, Awich sets her eyes on New York's stage with her U.S. debut on September 14 at Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage in Central Park. ‘Japan Champloo in the Park,’ hosted by Awich, also features other Japanese musicians such as NYC-based pianist and producer BIGYUKI, hip hop artist JP THE WAVY, Okinawan rapper OZworld, and DJ U-LEE.
Born in Okinawa as Akiko Urasaki, the name "Awich" stands for "Asian Wish Child." Known for her seamless blending between languages, her cutting and authentic lyrics, and her dedication to music, Awich continues to forge a name for herself. Her artistry not only reflects the events of her life and the cultural mix of her upbringing but also her earliest inspirations for hip hop.
The island of Okinawa has faced different eras—it's home to the Ryukyu Kingdom, was annexed by Japan in 1879, and was later occupied by the United States. While the U.S. returned the island to Japan in 1972, the U.S. military retains a vast presence on the island with 32 naval bases. Growing up in this environment exposed Awich to a mix of cultures: Okinawan, Japanese, and American.
One of her main inspirations for hip hop came from her discovery in a record store, with Tupac Shakur's All Eyez On Me. Admiring both his artistry and dedication to his community, Awich felt inspired to dig back into her roots and explore how she could do the same for her community.
On July 16, Awich released her U.S. debut single, "Wax On Wax Off," which features prominent American rappers Ferg and Lupe Fiasco. Produced by Wu-Tang Clan legend RZA, the song's track gives a classic, old-school feel with a Japanese angle. The title and song's refrain, "Wax On Wax Off," refers to Mr. Miyagi's instructions in the movie Karate Kid where the karate master teaches a young man the diligence and consistency required to master the martial art.
The Ryukyu kingdom developed karate, making Okinawa its birthplace. Working with top hip hop acts, Awich showcases her Okinawan heritage, creating a song that contains the essence of hip hop in an East meets West production. By paying homage to the culture tied to hip hop's roots and by seeking to uplift her community, Awich solidifies herself as a leader not only in Japan's rap industry but also for Asian artists in hip hop as a whole.
Watch the music video for "Wax On Wax Off" here:
The historical SummerStage event brings together a collection of artists from all different backgrounds and musical styles. Awich named the stage "Champloo" after the Okinawan word Chanpuru (チャンプルー), meaning to mix. The event presents the Japanese hip hop scene to the world as Awich, BIGYUKI, JP THE WAVY, OZworld, and U-LEE take the stage.
Event Details:
Title: Japan Champloo in the Park – Curated by Awich
Artists: Awich / BIGYUKI / JP THE WAVY / OZworld / U-LEE
Date & Time: Sunday, September 14, 2025, 6:00–10:00PM
Venue: Central Park (Rumsey Playfield, Manhattan 10021)
Doors Open: 5:00
Admission: Free
Who are you most excited to see at SummerStage? What is your favorite song by Awich? Let us know in the comments below or by reaching out to us on Instagram or X.
TO STAY UPDATED ON AWICH:
Edited by Martina Yee