Vans Musicians Wanted champs 999999999 and Shahrae on their big wins

Vans Musicians Wanted returned with a blast this year, bringing together eight music acts from across Asia for one final showdown in Chicago. The party also featured performances by Hong Kong's Yeti Out and three hot hip hop artists – Mick Jenkins, Kevin Gates, and Yo! MTV Raps alumnus Bohan Phoenix.

Check out what went down on November 22 in the 'windy city' as Japan's 999999999, Singapore's BAD DOD, Korea's Cadejo, Taiwan's Ironpunch, Malaysia's Mafidz, China's Secret Club, Australia's Shahrae and Hong Kong's Whizz each took to the stage to play short sets in front of a panel of industry judges and audience members.

Still buzzing from the #VansMusiciansWanted finale at #HouseOfVans in Chicago! 🔥💥 Props to all the bands who flew in to perform, and winners Shahrae 🇦🇺 and 999999999 🇯🇵! pic.twitter.com/q03tHeWkqT

— MTV Asia (@mtvasia) November 26, 2019

More than 3,000 acts submitted their entries into this year's contest, and this year, for the first time, not one but TWO winners emerged: Hardcore Japanese band 999999999 and alt-pop Aussie singer Shahrae.

999999999 (pronounced 'kyu') blew away the judges with their blistering energy, winning the chance to play a full set at the House of Vans stage broadcasted by Boiler Room live around the world. Here they are in action and discussing with the win means to them: 

Meanwhile, the ethereal electropop by Shahrae impressed with its tenderness and musicality.

Shahrae wins a music video produced and aired on MTV Asia – so keep an eye out for that! Here she is on her big night, reflecting on her growth as an artist:

With the amazing level of talent on display at this year's contest, Vans Musicians Wanted can only get bigger and better. Learn more about the competition at hovasia.com/musicianswanted and keep your eyes peeled for next year's party!