Finding new connections between artists through music that were previously unknown, and allowing the audience to communicate deeply in between. This is the unique aspect of the music program ‘Live Wire’.
On the morning of the 19th, a press conference for the Mnet entertainment program ‘Live Wire’ was held at Community House Masil located in Myeongdong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by PD Shin Yoo-sun, MC Jung Jae-hyung, and Code Kunst. Music critic Kim Yoon-ha hosted the event.
PD Shin stated, “This program is important for its authenticity. It has been a long time since Mnet has produced a live music talk show,” and added, “The way music is consumed is shifting from just listening to a performance-centered approach. I thought it would be good to recreate a music program that aligns with the cultural and temporal breath of the times by seeing how people consume music in concert halls. We aimed to create it with both fun and authenticity.”
He continued, “To expand the musical spectrum, we have invited artists from various generations. Moreover, there will be many collaborative stages between senior and junior artists,” expressing his anticipation.
Additionally, PD Shin mentioned, “I hope this program can move the audience with sound. We had many discussions with the sound director. I believe the quality of the program's professional house band will satisfy the audience.”
Regarding his participation in the program, Jung Jae-hyung said, “At first, I declined. It was difficult to balance producing drama music with variety shows,” and added, “After thinking about it, I realized that there aren’t many ways to showcase music other than performances. After discussing with the production team and Code Kunst, I felt that we could create a program that is somewhat differentiated from other music shows, so I decided to participate.”
He also stated, “I felt the enthusiasm of the production team for this program. The format itself requires a lot of care. Given that it’s not easy for music programs to survive in terms of ratings, I think it’s great that it was produced this way,” and added, “I also wanted to show my sense of responsibility as a musician by participating in such a program.”
“I participated because Jung Jae-hyung hyung is doing it,” began Code Kunst, adding, “Another decisive point in my decision to participate was the theme of ‘connection’ that the program has. When I first started music, I used to meet people, but nowadays, I often work through contact rather than meeting in person. I felt a sense of regret about that. It was interesting to be able to meet people I wouldn’t normally meet within the program and share a breath.”
Code Kunst also expressed, “I was curious about what kind of scenes would arise when artists who didn’t know each other well met at the point of ‘musical connection’. I think I discovered many aspects of mutual respect among artists while recording, which was nice.”
‘Live Wire’ is a new concept music entertainment program that goes beyond a simple stage, connecting artists with artists, audiences with audiences, and the stage with viewers through music.
One of the program's biggest features is the relay nomination. Each episode, the participating artist directly nominates the next guest, creating unpredictable musical combinations. This not only fosters genuine bonds between artists but also creates a unique charm of ‘different music shows’ through unexpected musical connections. Artists with different backgrounds and styles will explore each other's musical worlds, generating unexpected synergy.
According to PD Shin, the participating artists send many lists of artists they want to see in the next episode. He mentioned that it’s not very difficult to recruit them, saying, “Aside from those who are unavailable due to scheduling, we are working hard to recruit as many as possible.” He also expressed hope for the participation of Panic (Lee Juck and Kim Jin-pyo), who are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year.
Jung Jae-hyung remarked, “Our program can be thought of as a mediator introducing music seniors and juniors. It will be a program where we can come together through music in one place and even feel a kind of catharsis,” and added, “There were many touching moments beyond just fun, and I felt emotionally moved. I think I felt a personal sense of pride while filming.”
The chemistry between Jung Jae-hyung and Code Kunst, who are experiencing the program for the first time through ‘Live Wire’, is also worth noting.
Jung Jae-hyung expressed, “I was worried that it might be a bit boring if we proceeded like existing music programs. I had doubts about whether it would have been enjoyable if I had only played a typical MC role, but Code Kunst made it comfortable to proceed together, which was great. The natural atmosphere enhanced the feeling of the music stage.”
Code Kunst also revealed his unique chemistry, saying, “I thought that if we felt awkward when a musician came out, it would put everyone, including me, Jung Jae-hyung, and the cast, in a difficult situation. To put it simply, I felt like Jung Jae-hyung was the captain and I was the helmsman in terms of hosting.”
Code Kunst also showed his producer side, stating, “In fact, when I was approached for the program, my next album was about 50-60% complete. During that process, it was an important time to keep my mind open to the feelings and influences that other musicians give. Personally, I think meeting new musicians every week and hearing new stories helped me. After recording, I even took notes on related content at home.”
In the upcoming first broadcast, DPR IAN, Kim Chang-wan Band, Roy Kim, Lee Young-ji, and Touched are set to appear, raising expectations about who nominated whom and what stories they have.
‘Live Wire’ is the first to attempt audience connection based on preferences. During the application process for the audience, a test regarding how they enjoy music is conducted, and then the audience is divided into four types: ‘Core Insider Emotion Lover’, ‘Core Insider Fact Bomb Lover’, ‘Couch Emotion Lover’, and ‘Couch Fact Bomb Lover’. This not only provides fun in observing the different reaction styles of the audience in each zone but also offers a unique experience where audiences with different tastes can directly communicate with artists, rather than just listening to music.
Finally, the cast stated, “It will be a program like a friend who shares meals. It will be a program where families can come together through music,” and urged viewers to watch.
‘Live Wire’ will premiere simultaneously on Mnet and tvN at 7 PM on the 20th.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
