Mnet's 'Live Wire' captivated audiences with its authentic performances featuring musicians who love art and music, crossing various genres such as rock, hip-hop, and ballads.
The seventh episode of Mnet's 'Live Wire', aired on the 1st, featured artists E-Sens, Jeon In-kwon, Lee Seung-gi, and Jo Jae-zu, presenting a unique combination born from artist nominations and a stage filled with unexpected twists, providing differentiated entertainment. The broadcast recorded a peak viewership rating of 1.7% (combined Mnet and tvN, based on AGB Nielsen paid households), setting a new record for itself, and particularly ranked first in the same time slot among terrestrial channels for the target audience of women in their 30s, proving its hot interest.
The first to appear, E-Sens, sang 'Back in Time', sharing a deep bond with the fans. He stated, "'Back in Time' is a song I created during a time when I was contemplating why I started music, with the intention of telling my story," adding, "I didn't know if people would like this song. Thanks to the warm response, it became a song that comforted me." In response, Jung Jae-hyung expressed admiration, saying, "Didn’t this album win two awards at the Korean Popular Music Awards?" and Code Kunst shared, "I bought this album on the day it was released. That day, among rappers, there were reactions like 'I can't work today. I'm disappointed in myself today' due to its high praise." E-Sens's music encapsulated his unique story in the lyrics, resonating greatly with the public and fellow musicians.
E-Sens's appearance on 'Live Wire' was made possible through the nomination rule, allowing him to meet his dream band, the rock group Dongkukhwa's Jeon In-kwon. He expressed, "When I first heard Jeon In-kwon's 'That’s My World', I cried. It's hard to explain music and life with just one song, but if I had to choose one, it would be this song. If I had to leave just one song on Earth, it would be this one," revealing his deep respect for Jeon In-kwon.
When Jeon In-kwon appeared singing 'That’s My World', Jung Jae-hyung remarked, "Listening to this song feels like my lonely heart is being comforted. E-Sens seems to have already gotten teary-eyed," conveying the emotion. E-Sens confessed, "I started music because I loved hip-hop, but every time I searched for the reason, I listened to my seniors' music a lot," indicating that meeting Jeon In-kwon would be an unforgettable moment for him. Jeon In-kwon also responded, "I'm glad and thankful that you nominated me," adding warmth to the atmosphere. Notably, when E-Sens asked, "Has music ever been boring for you?" Jeon In-kwon advised, "I often mention 'Over the Hill', and from the top, I found that there are other paths, not just downhill. It’s necessary to seek new paths without settling." It was a sincere meeting that transcended generations and genres through music.
Next, Jeon In-kwon unexpectedly nominated Lee Seung-gi, leading to a unique talk and stage. Lee Seung-gi showcased his capabilities as a singer by performing 'Delete'. He humorously remarked, "I'm so glad that Jeon In-kwon remembers me and nominated me. I'm relieved that he remembers me as a singer, not an MC." It turned out that the two first met in 2017 when they appeared together on a variety show where Lee Seung-gi was an MC.
Lee Seung-gi also shared his recent focus on music. He said, "I've been reducing my appearances on variety shows and taking time to look within myself. When I reflected on what excites and interests me the most, it ultimately came back to music and singing. I'm not someone born with talent; I've been consistently practicing through vocal lessons," and expressed his ambition, "My goal is to create a mega hit song that over 90% of people would recognize within three seconds within the next five years."
The plans for the second half of the year for both were also revealed. Jeon In-kwon announced, "I'm going on a nationwide tour for the 40th anniversary of Dongkukhwa," while Lee Seung-gi stated, "I'm writing songs myself, so it will take time, but I plan to release an album with the songs I've created." The two, who reunited after eight years, moved fans deeply by performing 'Rolling, Rolling, Rolling' as a duet.
Finally, Lee Seung-gi nominated Jo Jae-zu, enriching the stage further. Jo Jae-zu left a strong impression by performing 'Do You Not Know'. Lee Seung-gi commented, "Jo Jae-zu's rendition of 'Do You Not Know' has made a proper resurgence. His character is so charming that I really wanted to meet him." Jo Jae-zu exclaimed, "I was so happy to be nominated that I screamed. I'm a huge fan of 'Live Wire', and I'm so grateful to be able to appear thanks to Lee Seung-gi."
Although Jo Jae-zu is only seven months into his debut, he filled the studio with laughter through his humorous talk and unique charm. He joked, "I resemble Hong Yoon-hwa, BMK, and the clock from the animated 'Beauty and the Beast'. Those who know, know, but I'm from the first generation of plastic surgery, and this is actually a tuned face," eliciting laughter.
Additionally, when Lee Seung-gi mentioned, "I used to host about 100 talk shows, and with 20 guests each time, nearly 2,000 people have come through," Jo Jae-zu replied, "I also run a jazz bar, so many people have visited. Samdi, Kim Nam-gil, Lee Min-ho, Ko Kyung-pyo, Lee Dong-hwi, and my beloved actor Ju Ji-hoon," engaging in a cheerful 'networking battle'. Notably, actor Ju Ji-hoon made a surprise appearance via phone call to support Jo Jae-zu. Ju Ji-hoon introduced himself, saying, "I'm Ju Ji-hoon living in Hannam-dong," and showcased his singing skills on the spot, displaying his charming charisma with his lively talk.
Jo Jae-zu expressed his gratitude to Lee Seung-gi, promising, "I will strive to become a wonderful singer who can last for a long time."
On that day, 'Live Wire' offered viewers heartfelt stories and performances from artists with different styles and personalities, providing deep empathy and comfort. The broadcast served as a special time that reminded everyone of the authenticity that music brings and the unique bonds formed within it.
Meanwhile, 'Live Wire' is an innovative music entertainment program that goes beyond a simple stage, creating special connections between artists and artists, audiences and audiences, and between the stage and viewers through 'music', airing every Friday at 7 PM on Mnet and tvN.
