The 75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen song lineup has been officially announced, generating excitement for the upcoming year-end music showcase. Scheduled to air on December 31, 2024, this beloved program will feature renowned artists performing songs aligned with the theme "A Song for You." This year's event promises to deliver both nostalgia and fresh entertainment, celebrating the diverse world of Japanese music.
With high-profile hosts including comedian Hiroyuki Ariyoshi, actors Kanna Hashimoto and Sairi Ito, and NHK announcer Nahoko Suzuki, the presentation of the song lineup has sparked interest among fans, setting the stage for what many anticipate will be another memorable broadcast. The announcement made on December 23, 2023, was aired live via the NHK MUSIC YouTube channel, allowing fans to engage directly with the program's preparations.
This year's lineup boasts many returning artists as well as first-time performers. Major artists such as Aiko, who will perform the theme song from the highly successful anime film "Detective Conan: The 1 Million Dollar Five-Point Star," and Kenshi Yonezu, showcasing his song "Goodbye, See You Again!" greatly highlight the variety present.
Among the exciting newcomers to this year's event are the up-and-coming artists ILLIT and tuki., whose songs aim to resonate with younger audiences. ILLIT will present "Magnetic" and tuki. has chosen to perform "Banquet Song," demonstrating the show’s commitment to embracing contemporary music trends and fostering new talent.
Notably, long-awaited performances from legendary groups like GLAY, returning after 25 years for their rendition of "Temptation," and THE ALFEE, gracing the stage for the first time in 41 years with "Starlit Distance," are certain to evoke nostalgia. Their participation reflects the show's ability to bridge generations of music lovers, offering something for everyone.
Alongside the traditional performances, the event will also feature special segments including a medley from Korean pop sensation TWICE, as well as solo performances by popular artists such as Hoshino Gen and Superfly. Hoshino is known for his intimate guitar rendition of "Why Are You Bad?" and is expected to deliver yet another powerful performance.
The event also dedicates slots to commemorate significant cultural moments. For example, Saito Yuki and Sakamoto Fumi will bring awareness to current issues, with Sakamoto performing "Noto you want?" to signal recovery efforts after natural disasters earlier this year. Ironically, the juxtaposition of heartfelt messages alongside entertaining acts showcases the essence of the Kouhaku—a blend of entertainment and cultural commentary.
This year's theme, "A Song for You," is particularly significant as it reflects the collective mood of the past year, filled with triumphs, challenges, and resilience. Fans are encouraged to submit messages related to the theme, which will be shared during the live broadcast, fostering interaction and engagement.
Looking forward to how the artists will be arranged within the broadcast schedule raises another layer of curiosity. Historical patterns suggest the song order will likely be announced between December 26 and 28, following past trends.
For those tuning in, the anticipation builds as the Kouhaku Uta Gassen not only presents spectacular performances but also serves as a platform for artists to connect with their fans, reflect societal happenings, and usher in the New Year with joy and hope.
The stage is set for another incredible NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen as it gears up to captivate audiences across Japan and beyond. The blend of established stars and promising newcomers creates high expectations for this significant event, which continues to uphold Japan's cultural heritage through music.
