AKB48 Chosen as Kouhaku Supporter

AKB48 and TV producer-commentator Terry Ito have been selected as "Kouhaku Supporters" for NHK's 62nd Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

On October 6, they made a special at a press conference in commemoration of the announcement.  Although AKB48 has performed on Kouhaku three times in the past, this is their first time appearing as a "Kouhaku Supporter."

AKB48 was chosen to be a supporter because they would be able to heighten the appeal of Kouhaku to all ages, particularly the younger generation.  Additionally, they are the first ever group supporter, as all previous supporters have been solo artists.

It was also announced that the theme for this year's Kouhaku will be "Ashita wo utaou. (Let’s sing for tomorrow)."  The 2011 year has been full of many catastrophic events that leave behind many sad memories.  However, people have gathered their strength to recover, and to keep going through the power of songs.  And so, Kouhaku wishes to make 31 December 2011 as "the day to take the first step like 1 2 3" and present a positive message in order to help everyone step forward into a brighter tomorrow.

The 62nd Kouhaku Uta Gassen will air on New Year's Eve from 19:15 ~ 23:45PM JST.