The 42nd Annual Japan Record Awards took place on December 31, 2000, starting at 6:30PM JST. The primary ceremonies were televised in Japan on TBS.
Award winners
- Japan Record Award:
- Keisuke Kuwata (Songwriter, Composer and producer) & Southern All Stars for "Tsunami"
- Best Vocalist:
- Best New Artist:
- Best Album:
- Ayumi Hamasaki for "Duty"
- Special Award: