GACKT, the renowned Japanese singer and performer, recently opened up about his past ban from NHK and the electrifying experience of his live performances during his appearance on the Japanese television show 'with MUSIC' on December 21, 2024. This conversation uncovered the thrilling yet demanding nature of GACKT's shows, alongside the challenges he has faced throughout his career.
During the broadcast, GACKT shared the rigorous environment of live performances where he pushes the limits of audience engagement. "I thought I might die," he remarked, reflecting on the physical toll of maintaining high energy levels during his shows. GACKT's commitment to delivering outstanding performances often involves extensive preparation, combining physical training with innovative staging techniques.
His storytelling didn't shy away from discussing his contentious history with NHK, Japan's national broadcaster. "I was under ban from NHK," he confessed, recalling incidents of disruptive behavior backstage, which led to his temporary exclusion from the network. Despite this rocky relationship, GACKT's talent eventually led to his role as Uesugi Kenshin in the historical drama 'Furin Kazan' aired by NHK, showcasing his ability to turn past adversities around.
GACKT's performances are notorious not just for their artistic flair but also for their grandiosity. When he takes the stage, it’s not uncommon for him to incorporate elements reminiscent of cinematic productions. For example, during one of his concerts, he featured live horses as part of the opening act, ensuring the audience enjoys both spectacle and entertainment. This ambitious approach necessitated considerable precautions, as evidenced by GACKT's comment on his security arrangements. "We brought 250 security staff to handle the performance smoothly," he expressed, highlighting the scale at which he operates.
GACKT's relentless dedication to captivating live experiences stands out when discussing the call-and-response segments of his shows, which can last upwards of thirty minutes. He revealed how this interaction can only thrive when audiences are deeply engaged. If even one person refrains from participating, GACKT refuses to wrap things up, illustrating his belief in fully involving his followers. This kind of connection he builds with the audience is both exhilarating and exhausting—leading him to admit, "That’s why I started training to build my stamina. I thought I might die!"
These insights showcased GACKT's evolution from turbulent performances to structured ones marked by huge leaps of professionalism. His past mistakes, including destruction of property, serve as lessons learned, crafting the artist he is today. And during the show, he reflected on how his early personal struggles were pivotal, saying, "It took falling down many times to learn how to rise."
Looking back on his controversial yet impactful career, GACKT exemplifies resilience, adapting his craft from episodes of chaos to celebrated performances. His candid moments on 'with MUSIC' not only highlighted his achievements but also reminded viewers of the growth he has undergone. Overall, GACKT's authentic representation of his artistic path left audiences more appreciative of both the man and the artist.
GACKT’s career continues to redefine the boundaries of performance art, ensuring his legacy is not just about fame but also about the artistry and the dedication behind it. His relationship with NHK, representing both conflict and collaboration, speaks volumes about his ability to transform challenges over the years.
