Snow Man, the popular Japanese idol group, took center stage on January 24 during the music program 'Music Station' to celebrate their fifth anniversary. The evening was marked by performances of three remarkable songs: their debut single "D.D.," the theme song from the drama 'Trillion Game' titled "Dangerholic," and the theatrical release song "SBY."
The members, beaming with pride, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to their fans, who have supported them throughout their five-year career. Hikaru Iwamoto remarked, "I am really grateful to be able to celebrate our 5th anniversary after being supported by our fans. We appreciate the days when the ordinary is not taken for granted." This statement captured the essence of their feelings as they reflected on their growth as artists.
Shota Watanabe also shared his thoughts, saying, "I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported us. It feels both fast and long, and I hope we can increase opportunities to meet more people this year." His sentiments echoed the group’s collective emotion, emphasizing the connection they have nurtured with their fans over the years.
The episode also featured other notable performances. Mrs. GREEN APPLE took the spotlight by presenting their latest song "Darling," which is set to be released as their first single of 2025. Vocalist Motoki Omori shared his heartfelt approach to the song, stating, "I hope we can deliver the message of not being alone through my song." His commitment to conveying deep emotions through music resonates with audiences, making it noteworthy within the industry.
Another highlight of the evening was the first live performance of "FUNKEYS" by Da-iCE, featuring legendary R&B artist Wada Akiko. After 20 years away from 'Music Station,' Wada's return has been highly anticipated, especially following her record-breaking streaming success with her song "I Wonder," which exceeded 200 million total plays. The collaboration with Da-iCE created significant buzz, reinforcing the strength and relevance of established talent working with rising stars.
New artist TOMOO, who has quickly gained recognition, performed "Contrast," known as the ending theme for popular anime. His presence on the show signifies the growing appreciation for diverse musical talent and the evolution of Japan's pop music scene.
Throughout the show, viewers were also treated to the latest comprehensive music rankings, which collated data from CD sales, streaming, karaoke, and YouTube view counts. This segment underscored the competitive atmosphere of the industry, showcasing how various artists have captured listener's hearts this week.
The evening was not just about performances; it also included nostalgic segments where Snow Man looked back at memorable moments from their five years on 'Music Station.' Fans were invited to relive some of the group's finest performances as selected by its members, reinforcing the bond between the artists and their supporters.
Snow Man's impact on the music industry continues to grow, fueled by their dedication to artistry and connection with their audience. The group is praised not only for their musical talents but also for their engaging personalities and the familial atmosphere they cultivate during performances.
Looking to the future, Snow Man expressed eagerness to create more opportunities to connect with fans and increase their presence within the music industry. Their 5th anniversary, celebrated with heartfelt performances and messages, showcases not just their history but also their ambitions for what lies ahead.
Through events like 'Music Station,' Snow Man proves they are not only entertainers but also storytellers, breathing life and emotion through their music and captivating audiences nationwide.