The MAMA nominations were announced on October 15, with BLACKPINK's Jennie leading the list with the most nods. Asia's biggest music award show is set for November 21, 22, and 23. The first day will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, followed by the second day at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka.
The Artist of the Year nominees includes Jennie, Jimin, Jungkook, LE SSERAFIM, and Lim Young-woong. LE SSERAFIM's EASY, Stray Kids' Rock-star, and several other albums have been nominated for Album of the Year, while Jennie's You and Me is up for Song of the Year.
Aside from these awards, the Mnet Asia Music Awards is well-known for showcasing the remarkable performances of K-pop idols. In the lead-up to the new edition of the show, audiences can enjoy several exciting stage acts.
Note: The article reflects the author's opinion and is listed in no particular order.
Goddess Awakened, BTS' Cypher 4, and some other stage performances of MAMA are the must-watch
Here are some of the cherry-picked performances-
- SUNMI and Taemin collaboration
- CYPHER by BTS
- MAMAMOO's Cleopatra and Easy
- BTS' Airplane Part 2
- TOGETHER x TOMORROW's Sugar Rush Ride
- Goddess Awakened: The Super stage performance
1) SUNMI and Taemin collaboration
During the 2017 MAMA Awards, SUNMI and Taemin from SHINee teamed up for a breathtaking performance that left fans in awe. It starts with SUNMI showcasing Gashina, wearing a vibrant red dress and stylish black cowboy boots.
Her shimmering earrings and captivating eye makeup harmonized beautifully with the stage's atmosphere. While she was dancing with a backup dancer, Taemin entered, creating a remarkable collaboration. Taemin, clad in a stylish black suit, performed Move from his second studio album.
2) CYPHER by BTS
Following the captivating performance by BTS at the 2017 Mnet Asia Music Awards, it was evident they were a fan favorite. Having won their first Daesang in 2016, the group's popularity had reached impressive heights by then.
Suga kicked off the performance, showcasing his exceptional rapping skills. Shortly after, the remaining six members joined him. All were wearing black suits and white shirts, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
With their stunning performances of Cypher 4 and Mic Drop, they blew the audience away, and the loud applause indicated just how much everyone enjoyed the experience.
3) MAMAMOO's Cleopatra and Easy
In 2018, MAMAMOO's vocalist Solar delivered one of the most memorable stage performances at the MAMA Awards. She performed Cleopatra from the album Melting, starting her act on a couch. Her transparent veil, flowing hair, and ancient-themed jewelry drew everyone's attention.
The audience was particularly captivated by her outstanding pole dancing skills. Afterwards, Wheein from the group stepped onto the stage in a bold red suit and delivered a performance on EASY with her backup dancers.
4) BTS' Airplane Part 2
In 2018, BTS performed for two days in two different countries at MAMA. This year was one of the crucial ones for the group, as they achieved many awards here, starting from Artist of the Year to Album of the Year.
BTS took the stage at Hong Kong's AsiaWorld-Arena, with Jungkook kicking off the captivating performance. The other members later joined him for renditions of Airplane Part 2 and Idol.
5) TOGETHER x TOMORROW's Sugar Rush Ride
At the 2023 MAMA, TOGETHER x TOMORROW gave an outstanding performance, with roaring cheers at Tokyo Dome, the venue of the year, highlighting their rising popularity. The five-member group performed the title track from Sugar Rush Ride and Chasing That Feeling.
Although the six-minute mashup was impressive, the group left the audience in awe with their major success. They secured the Worldwide Fans' Choice Award and were nominated in eight categories, facing stiff competition from BTS Jin and Jungkook.
6) Goddess Awakened: The Super stage performance
One of the outstanding performances of MAMA was staged in 2023, played by YUNJIN by LA SSERAFIM, MINNIE from (G)I-DLE, Xiaoting from Kep1er, Bada Lee, and Monika. All these K-pop idols performed on the second day at Tokyo Dome and the theme of their performance was dubbed Goddess Awakened.
The performance started with an introduction, showcasing four mythical creatures transitioning from monsters to goddesses. YUNJIN was the mermaid, Xiaoting portrayed the snake, Basa Lee, and Monica played the chimera, and MINNIE embodied the lion.
These are some of the best stage performances of MAMA and fans can explore them on YouTube at its official channel.