'Live Wire' opened the curtain for major consolidation with authentic music, unexpected artist connections, and perfect harmony with the audience from its first broadcast.
The first episode, aired on the 20th on Mnet 'Live Wire' (directed by Shin Yoo-seon), featured all-around musician Jung Jae-hyung and genius producer Code Kunst as hosts, providing sensory satisfaction through meetings and performances with various artists, including the Kim Chang-wan Band, Touched, DPR IAN, Roy Kim, and Lee Young-ji, leading to record-breaking immersion. The broadcast recorded a peak viewer rating of 1.3% (combined Mnet, tvN, based on AGB Nielsen paid households in the Seoul metropolitan area), taking the first step on an exciting journey.
First, the hosts Jung Jae-hyung and Code Kunst took to the stage to kick off the show with a newly mashed-up performance of Jung Jae-hyung's 'Feather of the Spring' and Code Kunst's 'Remember Archive.' The two hosts then introduced the unique rules of 'Live Wire.' Jung Jae-hyung explained, 'Unlike other music shows, artists choose artists they want to see, and that artist then selects the next artist, creating an infinite live show with an unbroken connection.' Code Kunst added, 'Not only the artists but the audience is also connected. We have seated similar individuals together through a music type test,' signaling the start of a differentiated music show.
As the first performer, the Kim Chang-wan Band appeared, providing a sweet stage with 'What is Your Meaning.' It was a touching experience to hear the original version through the voice of the original artist, once again showcasing 'What is Your Meaning,' which singer IU had previously remade to demonstrate generational harmony. Code Kunst expressed amazement, saying, 'This song was released before I was born, and it became known to the younger generation when IU remade it 30 years later. Recently, it was also included in the OST of 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' and received love. It seems that classic songs continue to be remade.' When Kim Chang-wan asked, 'Did it come out in 'When Life Gives You Tangerines'?' Jung Jae-hyung joked, 'You didn't check your royalty bank account this month, did you?' making everyone burst into laughter. Following this, Kim Chang-wan gifted comfort through his song 'Middle School 2,' prepared for the troubled youth. Notably, rapper Kim Ha-on made a surprise appearance in the audience, providing a unity that transcended generations with the Kim Chang-wan Band.
Immediately after, the band Touched appeared, chosen by Kim Chang-wan. Kim Chang-wan explained, 'I wanted to meet that artist after hearing cheers breaking through the soundproof door on another program.' In response, Touched delivered a fantastic live performance with cool vocals while singing 'Highlight' and 'Night View.' Throughout the stage, Kim Chang-wan seemed to rush forward to greet them, showing genuine reactions that created a warm atmosphere.
Following the spine-chilling live performance by Touched, the artist they selected made an appearance. Code Kunst expressed surprise, saying, 'To be honest, I was shocked that this friend is participating. It's someone who doesn't usually appear on broadcast programs,' and Touched admitted, 'We were worried if they would really show up when we named them.' The surprise guest was none other than musician DPR IAN, who has built a solid global fandom. He took the stage singing his hit song 'Don't Go Insane,' dominating the attention with intense charisma and unique stage presence. Touched remarked, 'It felt like Michael Jackson, which was so good. I was captivated.' When Jung Jae-hyung asked, 'Do you have a question you must ask?' Touched seized the opportunity, asking, 'Is there a chance you’d like to work with us?' DPR IAN responded, 'That’s definitely possible,' and the atmosphere became even more lively. Additionally, Touched and DPR IAN identified 'communication with the audience' as their common point and spontaneously attempted to engage with fans, heating up the venue.
DPR IAN created another excitement with his stage for 'Nerves,' and the artist he wanted to see next was emotional vocalist Roy Kim. Roy Kim took the stage, singing his hit song 'If You Ask Me What Love Is,' delivering warm emotions and deep resonance. Code Kunst expressed surprise at Roy Kim's appearance, describing it as 'a very unexpected consolidation.' DPR IAN revealed, 'Even though it's a different genre of music, I like this vibe. I enjoy it.' He also cheerfully shared the point choreography of 'Don't Go Insane' with Roy Kim, creating a special moment united by music. Soon, Roy Kim's passionate performance of 'As It Is' followed. The sweet voice that penetrated the microphone, the lyrical melody, and the band sound introduced viewers to 'real music' that had rarely been seen from their homes.
Finally, Roy Kim said, 'I love this individual's narrative. They are breaking prejudices and images with their own ability and talent. They are someone who can encompass the era, and I want to know them through this opportunity,' naming Lee Young-ji as the artist he selected. Code Kunst also shared a special connection, saying, 'If I could divide my body into 100 parts, I would give about 1/100 to this friend.'
Lee Young-ji appeared with her hit song 'Small Girl,' engaging closely with the audience and encouraging them to sing along. Jung Jae-hyung praised, 'This natural stage manner is also impressive, and if I had carved out 1/100 of someone like this, it would have been a fulfilling stage.' Code Kunst added, 'If Young-ji had come out at first, I think I would have cried. She won 'High School Rapper 3' here, so it's a bit...' failing to continue as emotions overwhelmed him.
Shortly after, Roy Kim and Lee Young-ji took time to recognize each other, and when Roy Kim posed the cheeky question of 'Code Kunst vs. PD Na Young-seok,' Lee Young-ji hesitated before saying, 'Oh my god! Both of you are father figures,' and after some thought, she chose 'Code Kunst. If you hadn’t recognized me when I was young, I wouldn’t be here. Just thinking about it brings back memories.' Hearing this, Code Kunst exclaimed, 'I’m glad the tears weren’t wasted,' resulting in pleasant banter that brought smiles. Additionally, at Roy Kim's request, an impromptu duet stage with Lee Young-ji was successfully held, and the two showcased fantastic synergy by singing 'Until I Found You.'
The moments of deeper communication through music resulting from the long-awaited 'artist-to-artist meeting' and this serendipitous encounter led to the birth of precious stages, providing deep emotion and resonance to viewers who have been waiting for 'real music and performances.'
Meanwhile, 'Live Wire' transcends a simple stage, serving as a new concept music entertainment that connects artists to artists, audiences to audiences, and the stage to the viewers through 'music.' It is broadcast simultaneously on Mnet and tvN every Friday evening at 7 p.m.
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