The stage was set, the anticipation was palpable, and when the clock struck 7 PM on December 28, 2024, music lovers tuned in to witness one of the most awaited moments of the year—the 'Songs We Sang This Year' special. This year-end music celebration aired live on Nippon Television, showcasing the most popular songs and artists based on Spotify streaming data. Hosted by actresses Mone Kamishiraishi and Eri Eda, the show was not only about music but about friendship and lively performances.
From the moment the show launched, viewers were treated to stunning visuals as the hosts captivated the audience with their extraordinary energy and talents. Mone, showcasing her lovely black lace dress, turned to Eri and admitted, "I am really excited to enjoy the music we colored this year with my good friend Eri, and I am already filled with anticipation." Her heartfelt sentiments captured the spirit of the event, making it clear just how much the evening meant to both of them.
The special featured numerous acclaimed artists, including King & Prince, NiziU, and New Jeans, performing their chart-topping hits. Each segment was carefully planned, providing the audience with incredible entertainment throughout the broadcast. The 4-hour live program was marked by high-energy performances, and around the country, fans eagerly voted for their favorite songs on social media platforms, contributing to what made this year's gathering even more special.
One of the standout features of the night was the collaboration between various artists, which left viewers enthralled. The show highlighted not only the top songs but also provided unique performances, including special medleys and dream stage collaborations. Eri, also dressed elegantly, expressed her initial nerves about hosting such a prominent show: "I am not usually good at leading shows, and I never thought I would be chosen for something like this, but it's such an honor to do it alongside Mone."
The time slots were filled with incredible talent. The first hour featured artists like ILLIT, King & Prince, and Tohoshinki, setting the bar high for the subsequent performances. Following this, the likes of Travis Japan, NiziU, and BOYNEXTDOOR reeled the audience back with their audience favorites as they showcased what it means to be part of the music industry today, intertwining traditional and contemporary music vibes.
The second hour did not hold back either; it brought together the energetic beats from Mrs. GREEN APPLE, the soulful tunes of Aqua Timez, and the charismatic performances from acts like Creepy Nuts and New Jeans. Each group contributed to the festive atmosphere, performing some of the year’s most listened-to tracks, effectively encapsulating the musical narrative of 2024. Fans at home can hardly contain their excitement, especially when the pre-recorded collab segments played out, showcasing unique performances one could only wish to witness live.
Among the features, the dream stage collaborations stood out, mixing genres and surprising the audience. One highlight was the historic collaboration between Tohoshinki and BE:FIRST, marking the first time these two generational icons shared the stage. They thrilled the viewers with their rendition of “Share The World,” sending tremors of nostalgia and euphoria throughout the audience. The chemistry between the performers was evident, and the event promoted unity within the industry.
During the voting segments, the audience engaged dynamically by voting for their favorite songs, which added to the event's interactive nature. This year, they spotlighted songs like King & Prince's "Koi Wazurai" and NiziU's "Take A Picture," both of which scored high among fan votes, showcasing the artists who defined the soundtrack of people's lives this year.
Each performance was more than just singing; they were vibrant spectacles of art, color, and emotion. Fans watched eagerly as each artist poured their hearts out on stage. Mone and Eri’s enthusiasm as hosts amplified the event’s energy, drawing the viewers closer with their palpable excitement and friendship. The evening perfectly wrapped up years of hard work and dedication by so many talented individuals.
Wrapping up the night, there was no lack of showcase for those nostalgic hits from the past, with performances celebrating the best from the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, creating moments of joy for both young and old audiences alike. The musical tribute to recent years reinforced the theme of their enduring impact, keeping the evening alive. Gentle melodies from the past echoed with powerful newer tunes, merging the eras beautifully on one stage.
Overall, 'Songs We Sang This Year' was not just another music special; it was a celebration of friendships, nostalgia, and growth. With live performances interspersed with laughs, heartfelt moments, and stunning visual creativity, the night left every music fan reminiscing and dreaming for what's to come. A truly memorable way to close the chapter on 2024’s musical endeavors, preparing audiences for yet another exciting year to come.
