The 2024 edition of the annual music event, "今年イチバン聴いた歌～年間ミュージックアワード2024～" (Best Songs of 2024), is poised to be another exciting showcase of Japan's music talent. Scheduled to air live on December 28 from 19:00 to 22:54 JST from the luxurious Hotel New Otani Makuhari, this year's awards will highlight the most popular streaming songs based on comprehensive data.
Hosted by the talented Mone Kamishiraishi and newcomer Elaiza Ikeda, the show promises to deliver not only awards but also electrifying live performances from some of Japan's most adored artists. Fans can look forward to appearances by major groups such as Creepy Nuts, who recently dominated the Billboard JAPAN charts with their hit "Bling-Bang-Bang-Born," and Mrs. GREEN APPLE, recognized as the top-streamed domestic artist on Spotify Japan this year.
Creepy Nuts, known for surpassing five billion streams across various platforms, had their music resonate deeply throughout 2024, and their set is expected to be one of the highlights of the evening. Mrs. GREEN APPLE, with 21 songs exceeding one million streams, will also grace the stage, alongside world-renowned girl group NewJeans, whose Spotify streams have crossed 50 billion.
Another popular act, BE:FIRST, will charm audiences with their three-week number one hits on the Reiwa era major charts. Newly debuted group Number_i is also making waves, with their single "GOAT" spending over 40 weeks on the Billboard JAPAN rankings, signaling success right from their debut.
Adding to this year’s spectacle, the show will feature iconic cover performances. Kamishiraishi is set to perform Seiko Matsuda’s heartfelt ballad "あなたに逢いたくて～Missing You～" (I Want to Meet You), expressing her admiration for the legendary singer. She stated, "松田聖子さんがご自身で作詞をされています。名だたる方々の詞を歌ってきた聖子さんが自分で紡ぎ出した言葉の曲は本当に等身大ですし、とてもキラキラ光っていて大好きなので、聖子さんの言葉を歌いたいです。" The sentiment speaks volumes about Matsuda's influence and how important her work remains today.
Ikeda will take on the challenge of performing Akina Nakamori's "飾りじゃないのよ涙は" (Tears Are Not Just Decoration), another masterful piece of Japan’s music history. She expressed her respect for Nakamori's lyrical talent, saying, "自分ではあの歌詞は書けないですし、あれは（井上）陽水さんの巧みな言葉選びと柔らかい、強いのだけれど不思議と柔らかいぬくもりある言葉の並びがなせる業だと思います。" This highlights the deep emotional connection these songs have with contemporary performers and audiences alike.
The excitement doesn’t stop there—viewers can engage with the event through interactive segments, including voting for their favorite love songs, adding to the holiday cheer of the season. Both MCs have expressed their enthusiasm about their roles. Kamishiraishi remarked humorously about the pressure of live performance, emphasizing the importance of staying focused to deliver great entertainment. Meanwhile, Ikeda, who shares chemistry with Kamishiraishi, has plans to get hyped before the show, stating they might even warm up with some karaoke. Their camaraderie promises to bring joy to the telecast.
With beloved artists performing right from the stage, including newcomers and established stars alike, the “2024 Annual Music Awards” aims to not only celebrate this year’s top tunes but also to reminisce and pay homage to musical legends. Besides the two leads, audiences will also enjoy acts from Omoinotake, NiziU, SPYAIR, and others, all coming together for four exhilarating hours of live music.
Fans and music lovers alike are encouraged to tune in and support their favorites, making the event not just about awards, but also about the joyful celebration of music and community.
From the inspiration drawn from artists of the past to the electrifying performances by today's stars, the 2024 music awards show is sure to be unforgettable. Mark your calendars for December 28 and prepare for a night where music connects, cherished songs revive memories, and new hits take center stage!
