Mnet, known as a 'music powerhouse' for 30 years, has not held back in its praise for MC Code Kunst as it launches the new program 'Live Wire'.
'Live Wire', which will first air on June 20 (Friday), is a new concept music variety show that carries on the legacy of Mnet's live music programs such as 'A-Live', 'Soundplex', and 'Yoon Do-hyun's MUST', while aligning with the emotional sensibilities of the MZ generation that emphasizes 'sharing tastes' and 'experiencing live events'.
This program focuses on the 'consolidation' moment when people connect through music, providing genuine empathy and immersion through stages where artists and audiences breathe together. In an era where online connections have become the norm, it is even more meaningful as a music content that reminds us of the value of experiencing live performances offline by 'listening, seeing, and feeling' directly.
To raise the immersive experience and on-site feel as if attending a concert, the production team and house band have also been formed with 'Avengers-level' talent. Shin Yu-sun, the director of 'Live Wire', is a veteran who has directed major music shows like 'M Countdown', 'KCON', and 'MAMA AWARDS', and through this project, he is expected to showcase the essence of music programs once again. He expressed strong confidence, stating, 'I will show the true flavor of Mnet's music shows.'
In addition, PD Jo Woo-ri, who has demonstrated a keen sense optimized for music shows including 'Queendom', along with a production team experienced in various live content, has joined forces. The involvement of session musicians who have been responsible for performances of top domestic artists has further enhanced the musical completeness. Reports indicate that at the actual filming site reactions such as 'the music quality is concert-level,' and 'the on-site emotion was profound' were heard.
Ahead of its first broadcast, PD Shin Yu-sun shared the program's background, production process, reasons for selecting the MCs, and differences in structure through the following Q&A.
[Below is the full Q&A with PD Shin Yu-sun]
Q. What is the background behind the planning of 'Live Wire'?
A. These days, people communicate more easily online, but feel increasingly disconnected offline. Particularly, the MZ generation seeks 'real encounters' where they can connect and directly experience with others who share their tastes. In a trend where content is not just about 'consumption' but about 'experiencing' and 'sharing', I wanted to create a program that can link people through music. That's how 'Live Wire' began.
Q. What differentiates it from existing music talk shows?
A. 'Live Wire' is not just a simple lineup of live stages, but a talk show that paints the picture of 'meetings between people through music'. The biggest feature is its 'relay nomination' structure, where artists nominate the next singer they want to meet, seamlessly continuing to the next episode's guest. Unexpected combinations, hidden connections, and heartfelt talks unfold. Above all, audience invitations have been enhanced with a special touch. Through a 'music taste test', audience members are divided into four descriptive groups, allowing those with similar tastes to sit together and enjoy the performance, creating a natural connecting experience.
Q. Why did you choose MC Jung Jae-hyung and Code Kunst?
A. Jung Jae-hyung is an all-around artist who spans classical music, popular music, and film soundtracks, adding depth of musical insight and a romantic approach to the feel of 'Live Wire'. The term 'romantic maestro' suits him well. Code Kunst serves as a trendy producer and a sincere mentor, guiding heartfelt conversations with his warm empathic abilities and witty entertainment skills. He can be considered 'the national MC of the hip-hop scene'. I expect these two MCs, who are different in style, to provide balance.
Q. There is great anticipation for this long-awaited live music talk show. I heard the filming has already taken place, so I'm curious about the audience's reaction at the site.
A. The structure includes live performances from guest artists, so we worked hard to ensure both the guest artists and the audience are satisfied, including assembling the house band with members who have collaborated with top domestic musicians. At the first filming site, many responses indicated, 'the music quality is exceptional.' If I were to confidently say, regarding the musical completeness, it would be 120 out of 100.
Q. Can you tell us more details about the atmosphere during the first filming?
The atmosphere at the first filming site was filled with heartfelt exchanges on stage and in conversations, eliciting enthusiastic responses. Particularly, there was high satisfaction with the arrangements and music quality, leading to guest artists expressing their desire to perform again. Kim Chang-wan expressed his gratitude and happiness, saying, 'I feel like music has brought us together.' MC Jung Jae-hyung also mentioned, 'On a day like today, I really feel glad that I pursued music.' Some artists even promised to work together on music as a result of their meeting on 'Live Wire'.
Q. What message would you like to convey to prospective viewers?
A. 'Live Wire' encompasses unpredictable guest combinations, the relaxed and delightful talks generated by MCs Jung Jae-hyung and Code Kunst, as well as vibrant live experiences that can only be felt on-site. You may feel connections like 'Oh? I like this person too!' or unexpected fun thinking, 'Did they really nominate this person?'. I hope you watch comfortably and enjoyably.
[Photo] Provided by OSEN DB
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