I am traditionally more leaned to the performances of the ladies and while this year the gentlemen did not do great, a win was clearly defined on their side. But, the judges thought otherwise.
This time I was finally under the solid impression that NHK took things seriously in digital with well used projection and reality enhancement technologies as well as with offering people the ability to vote after each individual competition. This latter new feature I thought was really good since it kept people engaged and watching the show.
Performance wise, I have to say that 2016 was a year when the Japan music scene didn't grow. There were almost no new artist and really no impressive big names. Apart from AKB 48 with a very digital touch that involved people defining their performance, all else was on the expectable side.
AKB 48 had the most mature performance ever, E-girls was also good with more grown-up girls on stage. The usual suspects on the side of the ladies did well with Utada Hikaru, Nishino Kana and others. The gentlemen had a few shiny moments with AAA, J Soul Brothers, Arashi, and Radwimps. In all, nobody really stood up on either side.
All the way to the end and despite the fact that the gentlemen (Shirogumi) won by a margin of more than 2M votes from the audience at home and more than 400 votes at the NHK Hall, the judges gave the win to the ladies. All said, I have nothing else to say but, what was the point in giving power to the people if this power was going to be absolutely ignored?
In a way I am pleased to see a changing show, at the same time I am left with a bitter feeling that I am sure most people share with me today.
