In the latest episode of "G-SHOCK presents THE MOMENT," enka singer Niihama Leon made a highly anticipated appearance on February 28 and March 7, 2025. Known for his significant contributions to the genre, Niihama Leon, born in 1996 in Chiba Prefecture, has garnered attention since his debut single, "Hanasanai Hanasanai," released in 2019.
Niihama's rise in the music industry has been meteoric; he won the Newcomer Award at the 61st Japan Record Awards and was also recognized the following year as the Best Enka/Kayokyoku New Artist at the 34th Japan Gold Disc Awards. His track record highlights not only his vocal talent but also his ability to resonate with audiences, most recently evidenced by the massive success of the 2024 hit song "Zenbu Ageyou." This particular track was produced by Koki Mimura and written by notable figures George Tokoro and Mimura himself, further solidifying Niihama's place in the music industry.
The year 2024 also marked Niihama's participation in the prestigious 75th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, an honor reflecting his growing popularity. During his appearance, he provided insights into his musical journey and personal milestones.
On March 20, 2025, Kocchi no Kent welcomed Niihama Leon back to the show's podium, leading to a heartfelt reunion. They reminisced about their first encounter at the Kohaku Uta Gassen press conference in 2024 and discussed their shared experiences as performers. What is remarkable is that both artists are 28 years old, which fueled camaraderie between them.
“We share more than just our age!” Kocchi no Kent remarked enthusiastically during the interview. He hosted Niihama who expressed his excitement saying, “I’m really happy!” The discussions revealed how intriguing it is for them to connect over mutual interests while discovering they both share similar artistic pathways.
Throughout the episode, Niihama delved into personal stories from his childhood, including anecdotes related to his nicknames when he was younger. The beauty of the program is that it showcases not just the artists' performances but also their personalities and stories, giving fans a deeper understanding of their idols.
Interestingly, Niihama shared another special connection with Kocchi no Kent: a fondness for the color green. “Green has always been my lucky color; my costumes have embraced this theme since my debut!” concluded Niihama, lighting up the discussion with his enthusiasm.
The show, airing every Friday from 5:00 PM to 5:25 PM, encourages fans to engage more with the artists by letting them peek into their lives beyond music. The presenters are committed to offering an experience that allows viewers to participate in a shared narrative chip; whether through behind-the-scenes stories or direct artist interactions, the show's essence lies in its connection with the audience.
This integration of personal stories and entertaining performances makes "G-SHOCK presents THE MOMENT" a unique platform for experiencing the dynamic world of enka music. Each episode is filled with mutual respect and admiration, enhancing the overall viewing experience while connecting the artists' journeys with their fans.
As Niihama Leon continues to rise within the industry, the anticipation for what he will undertake next builds. Whether through new songs or additional television appearances, his fans remain eager for more of his traditional yet modern musical expressions. As the enka tradition finds new life through young artists like him, it seems that the future for this genre is not only secure but also thriving.
