■Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS will be unveiled for the first time on “The Covers”!

The music program “The Covers” is currently being broadcast on NHKBS. The first episode of the new year, which marks the start of 2025, will feature a “New Year Special” that will be broadcast over two weeks, welcoming big legends worthy of the new year.

The guest is Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS, a band formed by Masaaki Sakai because he wanted to be the last band of his life. It will be unveiled for the first time in “Covers”.

The members are Masaaki Sakai, one of Japan’s leading entertainers, who has been active as a singer, actor, and host since he became famous as The Spiders, who led the GS boom in the 1960s. Mickey Yoshino is the keyboardist for Godigo, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, and is a composer and arranger who has created many famous songs. and Shishido Kafka, who continues to be a versatile actor and drummer.

Furthermore, as tribute guests, Tortoise Matsumoto and Shinshin Brothers, who respect The Spiders and Godigo, will also make a special appearance.

Focusing on two big legends, Masaaki Sakai and Mickey Yoshino, we explore the musical achievements and origins of the music of The Spiders and Godigo, who are etched into the music history of 100 years of broadcasting.

On the first night, Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS performed Godigo’s famous song “Monkey Magic,” which was a hit as the opening theme for the drama “Journey to the West” starring Masaaki Sakai. Presented as a rare cover collaboration between Masaaki Sakai and Mickey Yoshino.

Then, in a special collaboration between Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS, Tortoise Matsumoto, and the Shinshin Brothers, The Spiders’ hit number “Bang Bang Bang” was performed. This performance is a must-see.

On the second night, they covered The Beatles’ “Twist and Shout,” which is the origin of their music. Masaaki Sakai of The Spiders, who led the GS boom, talks about the influence of the Beatles and behind-the-scenes stories.

And then there’s “Farewell Asahi,” the debut song by Pedro & Capricious, a band that had a string of hits in the 70s. Delivered with twin vocals with Shishido Kafka.

In addition, bands that colored the GS boom, including The Spiders, and treasured footage of Godaigo will also be broadcast.

Special collaborations and joint talks between Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS, Tortoise Matsumoto, and the Shinshin Brothers are also unique to the new year. It will be delivered in a gorgeous manner with lively talk and famous songs.

Let’s look forward to “New Year Legend Rock SP”, which was recorded with great excitement.

Program information

NHK BS “The Covers New Year Legend Rock SP”
MC: Lily Franky Moka Kamishiraishi
Covers Guest: Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS (Masaaki Sakai, Mickey Yoshino, Shishido Kafka)
Tribute guest: Tortoise Matsumoto, Shinshin Brothers

[Night 1]Masaaki Sakai and the Spiders
(2025)
01/05 (Sun) 22:50-23:19 *4K advance broadcast (BSP4K)
01/09 (Thu) 21:30-21:59 *Broadcast schedule (NHKBS)

Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS “Monkey Magic” (Godigo/1978)
Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS with Tortoise Matsumoto/Mashin Brothers SP collaboration “Bang Bang Bang” (The Spiders/1967)

[Night 2]The Beatles & Godigo
(2025)
01/12 (Sun) 22:50-23:19 *4K advance broadcast: (BSP4K)
01/16 (Thu) 21:30-21:59 *Broadcast schedule (NHKBS)

Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS “Twist and Shout” (The Beatles/1963)
Masaaki Sakai to MAGNETS “Morning of Farewell” (Pedro & Capricious/1971)

“The Covers” program site
https://www.nhk.jp/p/thecovers/ts/KXRV2Q744Y/