The upcoming 75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen is set to air on December 31, 2024, beginning at 7:20 PM JST, promising another night of captivating performances from famed Japanese artists. The annual event, which is known for its entertainment value and cultural significance, divides its performers between the iconic Red Team and the White Team.
This year's theme is "A Song for You," with NHK stating, "We will deliver the best songs to each and every one of you, major and minor, regardless of country, gender, or era." Since its inception in 1951, the Kouhaku Uta Gassen has become synonymous with year-end celebrations, and this year marks the program's 75th anniversary.
Among the artists slated to perform on the Red Team are renowned acts such as aiko (15th appearance), あいみょん (6th), ILLIT (debut appearance), 石川さゆり (47th), and 西野カナ (10th), who makes her comeback after taking a hiatus since 2019. Her return has been widely anticipated following her announcement of renewing her musical activities and her participation at this celebrated broadcast.
The White Team will also be filled with excitement, featuring Omoinotake (debut), Creepy Nuts (debut), GLAY (4th), and many others. Notably, this will be the first appearance for several groups, including TOMORROW X TOGETHER and Da-iCE, which signifies the continuous evolution of the show's lineup.
Comments from returning artists, particularly 西野カナ, reflect their eagerness for this electrifying event. "I am thrilled to be part of the 75th Kouhaku Uta Gassen. After resuming my career this year, I hope to create wonderful memories for everyone watching," she expressed. Since suspending her career to concentrate on family, her return has been met with enthusiasm from fans who cherish her past works.
The broadcast will not only feature performances but will also include specials and behind-the-scenes look at the preparation for the show. Correlatively, the lead-up to the event has generated significant buzz on social media, contributing to heightened anticipation. For many viewers, the Kouhaku serves as both entertainment and cultural reflection, portraying the year’s influential musical styles.
Broadcast details: The event will be available on NHK General, BS4K, BS8K, and Radio NHK, making it accessible to a wide audience. With the performance schedule running until 11:45 PM JST, viewers can expect both live and pre-recorded segments showcasing the performers.
This year’s Kouhaku will also set the stage for the competition between the two teams. The Red Team holds the advantage with 34 victories, but the White Team remains strong with 40 wins. The excitement of competition adds another layer of enjoyment, as fans will rally behind their favorite artists and immersed themselves within the festive, competitive spirit.
Anticipation aside, the event also serves as a reflection of contemporary Japan’s artistic scene—one filled with vigor and the juxtaposition of deep-rooted tradition and modernity. NHK has seasoned the lineup with popular budding artists along with stalwarts, contributing to the overall rich flavor of the event.
Before the show, additional programs will be aired to lead up to the main event, such as the special segment Venue101 Kouhaku SPECIAL which will provide glimpses behind the curtain during interview sessions with participating artists. This program gives fans a closer connection to their admired artists leading up to the Kouhaku night itself.
Further enhancing the excitement around the event are the social media polls where fans can express their favorites and expectations. This dynamic interaction has seen renewed vigor through conversations about past favorites and anticipated performances, guiding fans to share their insights through various online platforms.
Overall, the Kouhaku Uta Gassen is expected to deliver not only extraordinary talent but also emotional experiences connected to the themes prevalent throughout 2024—joy, sorrow, and everything else the past year encompassed. With experts noting, "This event is not simply about music but the collective memory and emotions of Japan during the year," it becomes apparent how the significance of this broadcast stretches beyond entertainment.
Fans are encouraged to tune in for what is expected to be yet another unforgettable night, encapsulating the beauty of music, lasting memories, and the cultural heritage of Japan.
